Athens MOVE - December 2014 - January 2015

FREE

AT H E N S

www.athensmove.com Volume 4 Issue 6 + December 2014 - January 2015

IN ThE sWIm of ThINGs… foR a LIfETImE! page 8

Why I am a VEGETaRIaN

BE pREpaREd foR aNy WEaThER

TakE youR Road BIkE INsIdE

page 42

page 20

page 26

Award-winning Health Care 2014 Healthgrades

2014 Healthgrades

america’s

%

in nation

hospitals

patient safety clinical excellence women’s health

gold-plus performance award for stroke care

stroke care joint replacement general surgery 2014 Healthgrades

star rating

gallbladder removal respiratory failure care heart failure care stroke care knee replacement hip replacement

obstetrics patient experience

selected by uga athletics as the official health care provider since 1999

joint commission gold seal of approval advanced primary stroke center spine surgery ©2014 St. Mary’s

heart failure center total knee replacement

advanced inpatient diabetes care

– American Heart/ Stroke Association

tAble Of COntents Athens MOVe

In case you are new to athens MOVe, we are an organization that has created a magazine, digital magazine, website and social media resource dedicated to getting people moving and living healthier lives by increasing their physical activity and eating better. This is a collaboration of individuals and organizations that share a common passion for improving the lives of our citizens and community through sports, recreation, fitness and wellness programs. With the support of our advisory Council and community partners, we have brought together our experience, expertise, and voices to focus on four basic goals: + COMPEL people to increase their physical activity and eat a more balanced diet of nutritious foods.

FREE

AT H E N S

Table of Contents

8 www.athensmove.com Volume 4 Issue 6 + December 2014 - January 2015

IN THE SWIM OF THINGS… FOR A LIFETIME! PAGE 8

WHY I AM A VEGETARIAN

BE PREPARED FOR ANY WEATHER

TAKE YOUR ROAD BIKE INSIDE

PAGE 42

PAGE 20

PAGE 26

12 14 16 18 19

SPORTS FeaTuRe Picture Perfect Coach’s Corner Team on the MOVe athlete on the MOVe adaptive MOVeS

20 ReCReaTION FeaTuRe

24 26 28 29

Steps and Strides Spokes and Sprockets Paws to Play Senior MOVeS

30 FaMILY FeaTuRe

+ EDUCATE them about the many different ways that they can get moving and eat better. + INSPIRE them with incredible stories of people who are making healthy changes in their lives. + CONNECT them with organizations, facilities, and resources that will get them moving and living healthier lives. athens MOVe has been striving to achieve these goals for three years now and based on all the great feedback we get from so many people, we have been meeting them. Yet, we cannot stop now. There is too much to share, too many stories to tell, and too many people who need our help to get moving and begin living healthier lives.

Our editorial team has a lot of great articles lined up for future issues, but we always welcome suggestions or editorial submissions from our readers. Whether it’s a topic that is important to you, an inspirational story, or maybe just some great photos, we would love you share them with us at info@athensmove.com.

34 35 36 37 38

Healthy Recipes Family Challenge Kids' Tips Brain Waves Nutrition Tips

42 LIFe FeaTuRe 46 48 50

Making a Difference Kid Fiction Inspiring MOVeS

Of course, this project would not be possible without the support of our advertisers and sponsors. Please show your appreciation by supporting their businesses, and contact us if you have a business or organization that would like to advertise in MOVe.

Gary LeFeuvre

Marjie Foster

Ryan Litts

executive Director gary@athensMOVe.com

editorial Director marjie@globalmovemedia.com

Creative Director ryan@athensMOVe.com

Lindsey Ebert

Brandon Gates

Katie Atkinson

editorial Intern lindsey@athensMOVe.com

editorial assistant brandon@globalmovemedia.com

Digital Media Intern katie@athensMOVe.com

athens MOVe Magazine is published 6 times per year by Global Move Media, LLC P.O. BOX 435, WaTKINSVILLe, GeORGIa 30677. info@athensMOVe.com Reader correspondence and editorial submission are welcome. athens MOVe reserves the right to edit or reject any material contributed. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without express written consent of the publisher. athens MOVe Magazine reserves the right to refuse any advertising for any reason.

Join Athens MOVE in the fight against childhood obesity!

September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month… but Athens MOVE is trying to reduce obesity in our community all year round.

With the help and support of our advisory council and community partners, Athens MOVE is educating and inspiring over 28,000 families in the Athens area to increase

Visit www.athensmove.com for our online

their physical activity and improve their diet. Through our school partnerships, a copy of our Athens MOVE magazine is sent home to the family of every student from K-8 in all four of the county school districts plus most of the private schools.

MOVE community … including access to our To learn more about Athens MOVE, go to athensmove.com

How can issue, you support the missionresource of MOVE? Here are some digital extended directory, suggestions. Let us know which ones you would like to participate in.

• I will provide photos free copies of MOVE our office. additional andinarticles, event calendar, • I will include a link to Athens MOVE on my website.

interactive much more. Also, • I will include a community, link to the digital issuesand of Athens MOVE in my eNewsletters or emails.

follow us on Facebook and Twitter!

• Please contact me if you need a medical source to quote for an article in MOVE. • I would like to submit an article(s) for consideration in MOVE. • I would like to be contacted about running an ad/sponsorship in Athens MOVE.

3 Ways to Join The Fight:

www.athensmove.com Join the fight by filling out the Email: Call:

form at http://bit.ly/PV3U8G info@athensmove.com 706.296.2996

Or visit our online form at http://bit.ly/PV3U8G

FREE

AT H E N S

www.athensmove.com Volume 4 Issue 6 + December 2014 - January 2015

IN ThE sWIm of ThINGs… foR a LIfETImE! page 8

Why I am a VEGETaRIaN

BE pREpaREd foR aNy WEaThER

TakE youR Road BIkE INsIdE

page 42

page 20

page 26

Print Magazines

Community Website

Digital Issue

Social Media

MOVE AdVisOry COunCil

Athens MOVE Advisory Council and Community Partners Community Leadership Becky Galvin YWCO Marketing Director/Fitness Coordinator

robert miles

patricia harrison

Oconee High School Health & PE Dept Head

don Chuboff

Athens Academy Upper School PE Dept Head

UGA Athletic Department Director of CHAMPS/ Life Skills Program

dr. Cynthia a. Lowe

Kadee holt

steve Cummings

Athens Community Council on Aging Outreach Coordinator

dr. Bryan mcCullick UGA College of Education Professor of Kinesiology

ruth e. siegfried

InVision Human Services Founder and President/CEO

eduCation anisa sullivan Jimenez

Clarke County School District Director of PR & Communications

Jon Ward

Clarke Central High School Athletic Director

david smith

Madison County High School Health & PE Teacher

Jamie Collinsworth

Comer Elementary School Health & PE Teacher

Oglethorpe County Schools Director of System Operations Athens Christian School Headmaster

Will mayer

Monsignor Donovan Catholic High School Athletic Director

sports/parKs & reCreation dante trevino

elyse Giles

sherri Goggin

Athens YMCA Fitness Director

Mulherin Foundation for Health & Wellness, Director

Clay Chappell

avery mcLean

US Junior Golf Association Founder/Head Coach

pam reidy ACC Leisure Services Director

Katina Buffa Oconee Gymnastics Center Executive Director

david Crowe Winter Bike League Long-Time Participant

Julie evans

Oconee Futbol Club Director of Coaching

Clarke County School District Adapted PE Teacher/ Special Olympics, Local Coordinator

Jonathan Foggin

randy mcelwee

Athens Bulldog Swim Club, Head Age Group Coach / Athens Clarke Dolphin Swim Team, Head Coach

John Gentry

Oconee Parks & Recreation Director

Joe avolio

Athens United Soccer Association/ Atlanta Falcons Physical Therapy Centers

American Black Belt Academy Director

heaLth and nutrition mike pilcher Athens Regional Medical Center Associate Director Corporate Communications

St. Mary's Health Care System Director Marketing & Public Relations

emma Laing, ph.d., r.d., L.d.

UGA Department of Foods and Nutrition Assistant Research Scientist

alonzo t. sexton, ii, m.d.

Athens Orthopedic Clinic Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine

Jimbo Wood Horizon Physical Therapy Physical Therapist and Owner

Kendra houghton, m.ed., C.h.e.s.

Wellness Coordinator Unified Government of AthensClarke County

dr. Kip matthews AK Counseling & Consulting, Inc. Sport & Performance Psychologist

tara merritt, m.d.

Performance Pediatrics & Sports Medicine

athensMOVE.com 5

Passiton.indd 1

8/6/14 12:07 PM

neW MoVeS SportS Zone

MOVE IT and GET IT The Omni Club has recently started some new classes and programs that are great for kids who want to get fit and/or improve their athletic abilities. Part of ELEVATE, the Omni’s sports performance training and youth programs, these classes focus on functional movement, cardio strength, core strength, functional strength, and flexibility. Kids 10 and older can choose from two classes: (1) MOVE IT classes are for beginners who want to get fit and increase their endurance, flexibility, and strength. These fun and interactive classes also build self-esteem through small group training sessions. (2) GET IT classes are for the intermediate to advanced athlete who wants to elevate their game. These small group sessions will incorporate speed training, weight training, and HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training).

Classes are led by Richard Samuel

Both classes are taught on the indoor turf field at The Omni Club Athens Eastside at 1055 Gaines School Road. These and other one-on-one sports performance training classes are led by Richard Samuel, former star running back for the UGA Bulldogs. For more information, go to www.theomniclubathens.com or email Richard at elevateomni@gmail.com.

athensMOVE.com 7

Sports Zone Feature other articles 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Picture Perfect 14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Coach's Corner 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Team on the MOVE 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Athlete on the MOVE 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Adaptive MOVES

8 Athens MOVE December/January

In The Swim Of Things …

For A Lifetime!

by Gary Lefeuvre, executive director of Athens MOVE

A

s we reflect back on fond memories of our youth, most of us can remember fun-filled days in a pool, lake, or

ocean. Some may also remember the hours of practice we put in for swim team and the excitement of community or high school swim meets. Then we grow up and take on new sports or activities that seem better suited to our ‘young adult’ lifestyle.

For some reason, many people have traditionally associated swimming as a kids’ sport but, thankfully, that trend is quickly changing. Swimming is a perfect fit for every age … literally from infancy through our golden years.

An advantage we have here in Athens is that our weather allows us to swim outside for as many as nine months out of each year, plus we have indoor pools at the YMCA, YWCO, Summer Hill Recreation Club and Georgia Aquatic Center.

Asked about the benefits of swimming at any age, staff at Summer Hill Recreation Club are quick to comment that “Swimming is great exercise, of course, and we know that adults and kids alike benefit with extracurricular activity. Swimming, specifically, helps us train for other sports, especially with endurance.”

Competitive swimming is one of the most physically demanding sports. It burns a lot of calories and offers a workout that benefits athensMOVE.com 9

KIDS’ VIEWS

Test your swimming knowledge!

By using their trunks as snorkels, elephants can swim as many as ___ miles a day? a. 10 b. 20 c. 30 d. 40 About what percentage of people in the U.S. do NOT know how to swim? a. 35% b. 50% c. 65% d. 80% Swim fins were invented by: a. Thomas Edison b. Johnny Weismuller c. Benjamin Franklin d. Elias Howe The first recorded swimming races were held in: a. Japan b. Australia c. France d. Denmark Answers: 1.b., 2.c., 3.c., 4.a.

10 Athens MOVE December/January

cardio, strength, flexibility and agility. It is also very safe and boasts a low injury level in comparison to many other sports.

In fact, swimming is one activity that athletes from virtually every other sport can utilize in the course of their training. That’s because swimming allows every person – young and old, accomplished athlete or novice exerciser – to work at his or her own pace.

Being in the water offers low-impact activity, which is critical for those recuperating from injuries, as well as for those with mobility issues and pain-related diseases such as arthritis. And competitive athletes from other sports benefit from the increased flexibility, stretching, and overall strength training that is inherent in swimming.

At this point, perhaps we should identify exactly what we mean by ‘swimming.’ If you’re visualizing Mark Spitz or Missy Franklin or Michael Phelps, then you may be a bit intimidated by the idea of ‘swimming.’

But when we talk about it, we simply mean

the act of propelling oneself through water using arms and/or legs. So, swimming doesn’t necessarily have to mean racing, or doing laps, or going underwater. It may mean walking through water (natural resistance for muscle-building), floating (to practice meditation and breathing), or a variety of other movements that provide physical and mental health benefits.

Many of us know people – young and not-so-young – who have never learned to swim, let alone learned how to swim competitively. If you, your friend, or a family member is one of them, don’t worry! Most of the indoor swim facilities in Athens offer swimming programs, including masters programs which are designed for people older than 18.

The Athens YMCA shared with us that many adults take masters classes as they train for sports like triathlons, so the YMCA classes concentrate on drills to gain strength and improve their strokes. The Bulldog Swim

Swimming is great exercise, of course, and we know that adults and kids alike benefit with extracurricular activity. Swimming, specifically, helps us train for other sports, especially with endurance.

Club even has a masters swim team for those who want to get a great workout and continue to enjoy the thrill of competing.

together from infancy through two years.

Swimming can also be adapted to different age groups’ needs and abilities, as well as the different abilities that people might have due to a physical or intellectual disability. Indoor swimming facilities in the Athens area offer a wide variety of classes for every age and skill level. One can find swim classes for parents and children

there are also beginning adult classes for

Of course, there are several levels of swim classes for children and youth, and grownups who have never learned to swim.

Hydrobics classes – aerobics in the water – are available in deep and shallow water, and offer a fun yet challenging workout that is especially good for those with arthritis or orthopedic injuries.

If you are looking for a great winter activity for your entire family, a trip to ‘open swim’ times can be great fun. Babies, toddler, teens, parents, and grandparents can enjoy the water together!

Whoever you are, whatever your age or circumstance, swimming might be a perfect activity for you. To find a program and to learn more about open swim times, visit the following websites for information, and get in the swim of things … for a lifetime!

www.usaswimming.com

www.athensymca.org

www.summerhillrecreation.com

www.gaswim.org

www.ywco.org

www.athensbulldogs.com

athensMOVE.com 11

Athens MOVe Picture Perfect

Winner Spending the evening on the trampoline by Mattie Boswell

Provided by Skyhawk Sports Photography

13 year old Evan, riding his new skateboard, at the skate park in Athens.

Thomas Lane Saxon's District All-Star Tournament winning hit to send Oconee County Little League to the state tournament for the 2nd year in a row.

by Zach Mitcham, Madison County Journal Madison County Middle School Basketball

by Dallas Bordon, Madison County Journal

Go to athensmove.com for exclusive offers from

for our athens move readers Athens MOVE Photo Contest is Proudly Sponsored by:

Turkey Trot at Ila Elementary School

by Zach Mitcham, Madison County Journal

Submit your favorite action shots for a chance to win a $50 gift certificate to Dick's Sporting Goods.

One winner per issue. To enter, upload your "Picture Perfect" photo at AthensMOVE.com

SportS Zone

CoaCh’S Corner

My Girls are GoinG to ColleGe

by Clay Chappell, A&F Golf Driving Range

A

few weeks ago, four of my former golf students met up with me at A&F Golf. It was a reunion of sorts back at the place where they all first met. Anna Buchannan, Crocket Floyd,

and Mckenzie Hedrick were three of my first players when I started the junior golf program; a few years later, Ansley Brock joined them.

Together, they learned the rules of the game, practiced their putting, developed their swing and, most importantly, they had fun. Over the years, I have watched each of them get better and better. They have all progressed from playing a few holes at Lane Creek on Monday nights to junior golf tournaments around the state and country, and then to playing for their high school teams. Their tournament wins and accomplishments are too many to list, but they are not finished yet. They have all accepted scholarships to play in college, which has been a goal each of them have been working toward for many years.

What the girls say about their first coach: “He has been a major influence, because without him, I probably wouldn’t have started playing golf.”

“He taught us how to play golf … this is the perfect place to learn how to play.”

14 Athens MOVE December/January

“He is really patient and very good at teaching you the basics. A lot of coaches don’t have that patience to teach kids and especially at such a young age like three, four, or five years of age.”

“He has little tricks and sayings that just stick with you.” “I remember being here all the time and looking forward to it.”

After playing against each other on different high school teams, Anna Buchannan and Crocket Floyd are going to be teammates at Stamford University in Birmingham, Alabama. Mckenzie Hedrick will be heading north to play for the University of Saint Francis in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Ansley Brock is looking forward to playing for North Greenville University in South Carolina.

I'm very proud of all four girls. It's fun to see them go from seven-year-old little linkster classes to being collegiate golfers. I don't want to take any credit for their golf games.

They did it on their own. But I know I introduced it to them, gave them some fundamentals and, most importantly, passed along a passion for the game. That makes me very happy. They have proven to me that with passion and hard work, anything can be accomplished.

“He definitely taught us how to have fun with it.”

“I was always happy to come here.”

“On Mondays, even it if was cold we got excited about it because it’s like your friends or like your family.”

The program at A&F has come full circle now, with them coming back to help teach the little kids in summer camps. They realize the importance in giving back and being good role models for young players. I love hearing them teach the kids using the same language and techniques I used on them when they were little (“cheese pizza”). I've told them they have to come back and teach clinics when they're not at college.

There will be more female golf scholarship recipients coming out of Oconee County in the future. There are already quite a few girls coming down the pipe who want to be the next Crockett Floyd, Anna Buchanan, Mckenzie Hedrick, or Ansley Brock. These four girls, though, will always share a unique bond and a special place in my heart.

Serving 1st Time Home Buyers to Seasoned Investors Ask about our Rental Inventory and Property Management Services

706.424.5741

660 Meigs Street • Athens, Ga 30601

www.GreaterAthensProperties.com

For a look back at the earlier years of these girls you can read an article about them in the very first issue of Athens MOVE by going to http://digital.turn-page.com/issue/40176. athensMOVE.com 15

SportS Zone

team on the moVe

Aspiring to be like those girls

by Gary LeFeuvre, executive director for Athens MOVE

16 Athens MOVE December/January

F

ive seasons ago, Coach Bridget took a group of seven girls on Level 4 and formed the first competitive team at Oconee Gymnastics & Cheer. They were young and fearless, and under her guidance they began to improve and excel in their sport. After leaving to coach at the University of West Virginia for a few years, Coach Bridget has returned and today is coaching many of the same girls, who are now at Level 7 and 8 optionals. The girls now practice 20 hours per week and compete at major meets around the southeast and even the country. They are also role models and mentors for the younger girls who are now starting to compete at Level 4, just as these girls did in the beginning.

This new group of 20+ girls starts as young as six years old, and they have a lot of energy and enthusiasm. They practice 16 hours per week in the same part of the gym as the older girls that they aspire to be like. According to Coach Bridget, they all have the potential to reach the top levels of optional gymnastics if they work hard and stick with it. Working hard on these teams is made a lot easier because they have so much fun together. Coach Kat, the OGC owner, says, “This can be a social sport. Our teams spend a lot of time with each other in and out of the gym. We want them to have fun and they really love and support one another." Even though some are in different grades, different schools, and even different counties, the girls at OCG are like a family‌a family where everyone just happens to love gymnastics!

athensMOVE.com 17

SportS Zone Athlete on the move

AlwAys Running

by Gary LeFeuvre,

executive director of Athens MOVE

D

awson Frey likes to run and he does it a lot. The 13-year-old eighth grader at Oglethorpe Middle School basically runs all year. He runs on the cross country courses in the fall, on the basketball court in the winter, on the track in the spring for track and field, and then various places during the summer to get ready for cross country in the fall. Dawson doesn’t mind: “To me, it’s fun to run, and when I run I concentrate and think about stuff. It’s just fun!”

Apparently he is also really good at it, too. In only his second year of competition, he finished first at the GA State Cross Country meet for the boys’ medium school division.

His time of 11:29 on the two-mile course was a minute faster than his time last year, and he finished 10 seconds faster than the second place finisher. Dawson was also named the GA Middle School Runner of the Year.

His school coach, Bea Marchette, tells us, “From the get-go, Dawson was eager to do his best, improve his times, and support his teammates in achieving their goals. For an eighth grader, he was also very easy to train. Middle school is, for many young runners, a time to just learn to enjoy running and begin to pick up a competitive nature for racing. Dawson already honed in on these features and came prepared to really train each day.”

Although cross country is Dawson’s favorite sport, he also loves basketball.

He has played for five years and is starting his second season as a point guard for his middle school team. “Basketball is really competitive and fun,” says Dawson. “You have to work together as a team and do your part.” His coach, Carlos Strong, loves working with him and says, “He’s a great kid and athlete ... awesome point guard!”

18 Athens MOVE December/January

Dawson loves sports and plans to continue running in high school and possibly even college. Until then, he is going to just enjoy the benefits and fun of practicing and competing in sports. He encourages younger kids to get involved in a sport because “it makes you more fit and you get to have more friends and know more people.” Dawson Frey is a great example of that, and we look forward to watching him run on the course, court, track, and wherever else his legs take him.

AdAptive MoveS

SportS Zone

Do you know someone with “Different abilities”?

by Marjie Foster, national editorial director for Global MOVE Media

O

ne of the major changes in the area of human services right now is to try to get people to start thinking of people with “different abilities” instead of “disabilities.” After all, people who use wheelchairs have the ability to move from one place to another, to drive a car, to play sports, and more. They just do it “differently” than someone who does NOT use a wheelchair. And some people with intellectual abilities may have to think through math problems and look at football playbooks with different guidance than someone withOUT an intellectual ability, but they are still able to consider the information in front of them.

So when it comes to adapting our playtime – from playing organized sports to running around the playground … from gathering for a neighborhood kickball game to planning a birthday party game – it would be great if all of us would consider how to include everyone.

disability may be able to have a parent accompany them? That would help them feel more comfortable and give you the security of having someone there who can provide support for the children.

• Who might be excluded if you have this

Some things to consider when you’re organizing an activity that involves a diverse group of people:

activity? Are you going to a multi-level

• Can everyone get to the activity? Are there stairs or curbs or pieces of furniture that may need to be overcome by someone with a mobility issue or someone who uses a wheelchair?

would you feel about re-thinking that lo-

• How can every person be included in play? For instance, if you’re having a swim party, can you have it at a location with a pool lift for anyone who needs that assistance? Or if you’re planning a laser tag party, will there be light-up devices for those who have hearing impairments?

We are lucky that we have more and more

• When is your activity? Do you need to consider having the activity on a weekend, when children with an intellectual

playplace? If all your friends cannot access the ball pit or the tunnels, how cation? It’s your party, but will it be just a little less fun if every friend cannot be with you?

awareness of and support for people with “different abilities.” Our children go to school with kids who experience challenges we cannot begin to understand.

The more aware we can be, and the more accessible we can make their everyday activities, the more rewarding all of our lives will be!

Adaptive paddling kayak" by vastateparksstaff

athensMOVE.com 19

Recreation Zone Feature other articles 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Steps.and.Strides 24 . . . . . . . . . . . . Spokes.and.Sprockets 28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Paws.to.Play 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Senior.MOVES

20 Athens MOVE December/January

Dress (anD Plan) for Winter success!

by Marjie Foster, national editorial director for Global MOVE Media

E

ven here in the temperate climate of Athens, Georgia, weather conditions can change rapidly during the win-

ter months, especially at night or at higher elevations. Whether you and your family like to hike or ride bikes, go to the playground or play tennis, you need to aware of potential weather conditions, dressing and packing accordingly so you are comfortable and, above all, safe.

As we researched material for this article, we came across the following phrase no fewer than four times … no joke. This is what we read from four accounts that helped us decide what information we should include in this article:

It seemed like a good idea at the time, and we thought we’d be just fine.

That was written by people who thought they were dressed appropriately for the weather, prepared for their activities, and safe from any potential climate-related problems. It was written by people who are lucky to be around to write about their experiences, because their experiences could have ended very, very differently.

Most of us have apps on our smart phones that help us prepare for the weather of the day, the week, and the weekend ahead. It’s important, though, to realize that weather changes, and we need to be extra vigilant, particularly when it’s winter. That doesn’t mean we should be afraid to go outside, or overly concerned about the weather. It simply means that we should be informed, remain diligent, and make careful athensMOVE.com 21

choices when choices when we we do do go go out out for for a a hike, hike, a bike ride, a run, or even just a walk around bike ride, a run, or even just a walk the block. the block.

It’s not difficult to be ready for outdoor acIt’s not difficult to be ready tivities during the colder months. Here are tivities during the colder some simple simple guidelines guidelines for you and your some We’ve compiled them from actual family. We’ve stories about people who have learned ‘the stories hard way’ how to be better prepared.

These recommendations apply no matter what activity you are planning. From a long walk on a local trail to an overnight hike in the North Georgia Mountains … from a bike ride around the county to a weekend trek … no matter what your activity, follow this advice to stay safe and warm: 1. First and foremost, don’t go out alone.

And if you’re taking an overnight (or several nights) trip, be sure you’re hiking/ biking with at least four other people.

You’ll want to help each other, watch for any danger signs in each other, and have plenty of supplies that you can share if needed.

2. Keep drinking water. Too often, people think that if they’re not sweating profusely, they’re not losing fluids. The problem is that the cold weather often disguises your sweating. Just remember, if you’re exercising, you’re losing fluids.

3. Have a travel plan. Even if you’re just biking or walking for a few miles, know your path, and leave a note so someone knows where you’re traveling and when you plan to return. Make sure friends and family know that if you and your group aren’t back at the appointed time (and haven’t checked in to let them know), that they should feel completely justified in looking for you.

4. Stick to your travel plan. Too often, adventurers do just that … they go on an adventure. This has proved dangerous (or deadly) in extreme weather. Refer to 3. above. If you need help, the people who care about you are going to come looking where you told them you’d be.

Don’t make a bad situation worse by veering from your planned path.

Winter Hiking / Biking Essentials First Aid Kit Map (not just GPS device) Water and food Warm, layered clothing Footwear designed for the equipment and terrain you’re working with Flashlight (with spare batteries) Waterproof pack for all of the above

For more information, visit these websites: www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/winter-recreation.htm www.active.com/triathlon/articles/embrace-the-season-5-tips-for-winter-cycling-883096 www.outdoors.org/recreation/hiking/hiking-hypothermia.cfm

22 Athens MOVE December/January

5. Dress for the weather. That may seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised at how many people thought “it just wasn’t that cold” or “there wasn’t any rain/snow/sleet expected … it came out of nowhere” or “it was warm when we left but got so cold” or “we didn’t expect to be out that long and it got so cold.”

Really … listen to the age-old advice to layer your clothing. You want to be able to take off and add on layers depending on your body temperature.

6. Read about where you’ll be going.

If you’re headed to unfamiliar trails or terrain, make sure you have a good map (GPS only works if you have a signal for your device!) and reliable information about the area’s weather, available services, wildlife, and topography.

7. Live by the motto … when in doubt, don’t go out. That doesn’t mean stay inside and let the fun of a crisp winter day pass you by. It means that if the experts are telling you it’s not a good idea, then listen to them. If those same experts (like the ones we researched for this article) recommend specific kinds of clothing, equipment, or nutrition (like the ones we’ve listed here), then listen to them.

Each year, hikers, bikers, walkers, runners, and even those just playing at the local playground find themselves at risk (or, worse yet, experiencing) severe illness, injury, or worse from being unprepared. The safety of you and each member of your family relies on judgment, experience, proper equipment and clothing, and attention to the environment, including the weather.

Cold-Induced Asthma provided by Dr. Matthew Farmer, Athens Internal Medicine Associates

What is cold-induced asthma?

Cold-induced asthma is, as the name suggests, a form of asthma that causes asthma symptoms exclusively during cold air exposure. It affects individuals who have lungs that are more sensitive to cold, dry air. Exercise tends to exacerbate these symptoms because this is a time when we breathe more heavily through our mouths, allowing cold, dry air down into our lungs.

Normally, we breathe through our noses, which gives the body a chance to humidify and warm the air we breathe before it enters the lungs. Cold air entering the lungs causes bronchoconstriction, which means it causes the passageways of the lungs to narrow and spasm, producing asthma symptoms.

What are the signs and symptoms of cold-induced asthma?

It is very important to recognize the signs and symptoms of cold-induced asthma, which include shortness of breath beyond what is expected by the exercise one is doing, plus coughing, wheezing, tightness in the chest, and decreased performance.

Symptoms are usually recognizable within the first 10 minutes of exercise or cold exposure because this is the time that the lungs have undergone the initial rush of cold air that can cause the lungs to constrict. It is also important to emphasize that one does not have to be actually exercising to have symptoms of cold-induced asthma. Many sensitive individuals can be affected just by going outside during a very cold, dry day.

Are kids more or equally susceptible to cold-induced asthma?

Although children are not necessarily more susceptible to cold-induced asthma than adults, it can be more difficult to recognize the signs and symptoms due to the fact that it may be hard for the child to verbalize ex-

actly what they are experiencing. Children may complain of not being able to keep up with their peers on the playground/sports field, or avoid exercise altogether. Parents should be wary of these warning signs, and watch for any excessive breathing difficulty or wheezing.

Does exercise trigger and/or contribute to cold-induced asthma?

You really can’t discuss cold-induced asthma without focusing on exercise as a common trigger.

How is it treated?

Masks and scarves can be used during cold days to trap heat and moisture as a person exhales, and allow that warmer air to be inhaled back into lungs. Use of a gym to exercise indoors during the winter months can help. Warm up gradually before strenuous exercise. I recommend five to 10 minutes of warmup with a gradual increase in intensity. This gives the body time to warm the lungs and acclimate to the temperature outside before strenuous exercise ensues. Use of an albuterol inhaler 1015 minutes before cold air exposure to prevent the adverse effects may help as well.

When should medical assessment/ treatment be sought for cold-induced asthma?

You should always consult your doctor if you have any concerns about you or your child’s outdoor activities during the cold winter months, especially if you recognize any of the signs and symptoms of asthma discussed above. Your doctor may also prescribe an albuterol inhaler to help you to continue to participate in the activities outside that you or your child enjoy. athensMOVE.com 23

RECREation ZonE StEpS and StRidES

EffEcts of WintEr runs

by Lindsey Ebert, editorial intern for Athens MOVE

T

he sunny, cool days of fall are quickly fleeting, as Georgia begins to transition into the colder temperature months. I have reluctantly begun

trading in my running shorts and t-shirts for thermal pants and jackets. You may have even brought out a heavy coat as the mornings have become frostier. Before we know it, we will be in the full-blown winter season, potentially facing snow and even ice storms once again.

24 Athens MOVE December/January

new cross-training program designed specifically for runners

RunFit is an hour-long training session engineered by Horizon Physical Therapy and Ryan Marsh, co-owner of Athens Personal Fitness, with the often-injured runner in mind.

Sessions are on Wednesdays, beginning at 3, 4, 5, and 6 PM and are designed to increase strength, core stability, and balance while targeting those weaker muscle groups that often cause running-related injuries.

Pricing is $200 for 10 sessions or $25 for individual sessions.

CALL TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY

An example of this is an upper respiratory infection. Cold weather alone makes one more likely to develop an infection, but, when combined with intense exercise, these odds increase substantially.

Don’t let the risk of developing a cold this December mark the end of your walking or running routine. There are benefits of cold weather exercise as well. These benefits include everything from preventing Seasonal Affective Disorder to increased endurance.

When proper precautions are taken, you can maintain your fitness and health levels even as the temperatures begin to drop.

r to ec nn

Oc on ee

gford Rd il Lan Virg

Co

Rd

However, this isn’t quite the case in colder months. The lower temperatures and your daily walk or run are both considered stressors to the human body. Each stressor weakens the immune system. When combined, exercise and cold weather multiply this immunodepression. In other words, winter athletes or those who exercise in cold weather are more susceptible to a weaker immune system during this time, making you more likely to become ill.

Mill

As we all know, exercise has a wide range of positive effects on your body. Your morning stroll around the neighborhood isn’t only helping you shed those extra pounds, though. Statistics show that mild exercise also strengthens your immune system … an added benefit that the eyes don’t ever see!

gs nin Jen

Although Georgia has a fairly mild winter season in comparison to our northern neighbors, many people’s day-to-day lives are affected by the colder days. This most likely will include your outdoor exercise routine.

10

• Sports Injuries • Work-Related Injuries • Post-Surgical Recovery • Running Clinics • Golf Clinics • Continuing Education Seminars

316

316 Professional Quarter 1360 Caduceus Way Building 200 | Suite 105 Watkinsville, GA 30677

706-548-7300

www.horizonphysicaltherapy.com

Don’t let the risk of developing a cold this December mark the end of your walking or running routine.

Use these three quick tips to begin your preparations for this winter: ProPerly layer. Keeping your core warm is vital. When you layer up, start with a synthetic material. This will draw the moisture away from your body as you sweat. Next, add a fleece or wool layer for added warmth. If necessary, the final layer should be waterproof material in order to repel wind and rain or snow. Don’t forget your head, fingers, and toes! A large portion of your body heat is lost through your head, so make sure to bring a hat.

CheCk the foreCast. When possible, avoid the rain and wind. When water or

know your limits. While it is considered safe to walk or run in colder months, those with pre-existing health conditions should take extra precaution. Talk to your doctor before creating your winter running schedule if you have asthma or heart problems, as these may be further irritated by the cold.

Following these easy tips will keep you safe during your cold weather routine and may even decrease the likelihood of getting ill. So don’t use the colder days as an excuse to slack on what you have built so far. Simply monitor the conditions and pay attention to your body signs to have a successful season.

snow is added into the winter mix, our bodies find it more difficult to regulate temperature. On particularly wet days, consider an indoor cross-training activity or a treadmill. athensMOVE.com 25

RECREation ZonE SpokES and SpRoCkEtS

26 Athens MOVE December/January

Take Your ride inside

by Gary LeFeuvre, executive director of Athens MOVE

A

s temperatures drop and daylight hours shorten, riding your bicycle outside may not be safe or

want a floor mat to protect your floors, a reading rack to hold books or magazines, and a trainer tire (trainers can wear out tires

comfortable. Keeping up your riding routine during

quickly). Another suggestion from Brian at

the winter though is really important, though! Not only will

can provide a structured workout and make

The Hub: “There are all kinds of videos that

it help keep you from adding holiday/winter pounds, but it

it more intense and interesting. Trainer rid-

will make sure you’re ready to go in the spring by helping

doing much if you are just riding along.”

ing can become boring, and you won’t be

you continue to use those muscles. So when you can’t hit

The local bike shops are not only good

the road or the trail, just take your ride inside!

equipment and/or classes that give you an

One of the easiest and most convenient ways to ride inside is on a stationary bike trainer or stand. According to Brian Molloy at The Hub, “The benefit to riding a trainer in the winter is that you can be more structured and focused because usually trainer rides are much shorter.” Brian gets a really good and intense workout in just one hour.

places to buy a trainer, they also have opportunity to see what it is like to ride on one. Some, like Georgia Cycle Sport, even offer spin classes and multi-rider trainer classes if you prefer riding with a group.

There are two basic kinds of stationary bike trainers. A roller trainer sits on the floor and has three roller bars that the bike tires sit on (two for the back and one for the front). You basically just set your bike on the rollers and ride. Although most of these do not have a way to adjust the tension of the rollers, they do require you to maintain your balance, which gives you a full body workout and makes the ride more interesting.

For more information, contact these local

The more popular type of bike trainer is the rear mount bike stand. With this design, the rear wheel is locked into a stand and the tire engages with a roller that provides resistance. Most of these stands use either a magnetic or fluid resistance system which can be controlled from the handle bars. Some are even auto-adjusting and/or have programs that adjust the resistance during a workout. The rear mount stands work well for less experienced riders because they are easy to operate and do not require you to balance.

706.548.6088.

bike shops: The Hub, www.hubbikes.com, 706-355-3989; Georgia Cycle Sport, www.georgiacyclesport.com, 706-549-2453; Sunshine Cycles, www.sunshinecycles.com,

There are models of both types of trainers that include monitoring systems to report your distance, speed, heart rate, and other stats. In addition to your current cycling accessories, you may

athensMOVE.com 27

RECREation ZonE Paws to Play

Feline Fitness

by Dr. Linda Leavell, Mars Hill Animal Hospital

H

ave you ever seen a cat out for a run with its owner? Or playing Frisbee with children at the park?

Probably not.

But just because we have to play differently with our cats than our dogs doesn’t mean that it is not important to keep them moving. Exercise is needed to maintain a healthy body, and research has shown that overweight cats are much more likely to suffer from chronic diseases such as diabetes and painful arthritis than cats of normal weight. Also, exercise can help reduce stress (just like it does for people).

Cats present a unique challenge for exercise. They have a notoriously independent spirit, so you have to encourage play on their own terms. Here are some great ideas: • Put an empty paper (never plastic!) grocery bag on the floor … many kitties will

run from wherever they are to jump in.

Cardboard boxes work well too.

• Probably the favorite toy for interactive play is the “fishing pole” type toy. Cats really enjoy chasing the toy at the end of the string. Don’t just dangle the end limply in front of their face, though. Instead, pretend that it is a mouse or small bird to activate their hunting instinct. Hide the end under furniture and move it in small fits and jumps to act like a prey animal. (Make sure you put the toy away after playtime so your cat doesn’t get caught in the long string when you aren’t around.)

• A modern twist on the cat toy is a laser pointer. Simply dim the lights a little and watch your cat run, jump, and play. Laser pointers can get kitty moving even when you are feeling lazy and want to stay on the sofa (but we always encourage you to join the activity and fun!). Avoid shin-

ing the light in their eyes as this could cause damage.

Whatever form of exercise your cat enjoys, make a routine of it. Cats thrive when given a schedule, and you will be more likely to keep up the fun if you have a set exercise time. Keep yourself and your cat fit, and you’ll enjoy a longer, healthier life together.

THE UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA®

Veterinary Teaching Hospital Providing 24-hour emergency services and advanced animal healthcare. Here to help when you need us most.

New Hospital / New Location • Moving in March 2015!

28 Athens MOVE December/January

706.542.3221 • www.vet.uga.edu/hospital

SEnioR MoVES RECREation ZonE

Fitness Classes For seniors

by Gary LeFeuvre, executive director of Athens MOVE

A

re you a senior who usually stays inside with minimal activity

all winter? Do you know an older friend or family member who falls into this trap of inactivity?

During the colder months, many of us don’t get enough physical activity, and this is especially concerning for senior adults.

Regular movement and activity is important because it helps seniors maintain muscle, flexibility, range of motion, circulation, and overall health and wellness. Fortunately, in the greater Athens area, there are lots of

organizations and facilities that offer programs to help seniors stay active through the winter and all year round. Here are a few to get you started.

• The Center for Active Living (CAL), a program of Athens Community Council on Aging (ACCA), is a multi-purpose center dedicated to offering a variety of opportunities for older adults of the Athens and surrounding areas. CAL provides learning opportunities to engage older adults (50+) by offering unique social, cultural, educational, and wellness-related classes and activities. Some of their wellness and activity classes include Smart MOVES and On the MOVE fitness classes, yoga, Tai Chi, free style dance, line dancing, and walking groups. To learn more, visit www.accaging.org/cal or call 706-549-4850

• The Athens YMCA is an obvious place where seniors can maintain and improve their physical fitness through a wide variety of activities and programs. Whether you like to participate in a class with others or work out on your own, the YMCA has lots of options to match your interest and abilities. For the active older adult, the Y offers a great seated or standing aerobic class called YMCA Gold. If you like to get wet, then you might want to consider water aerobics or their Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program. To find out more about the YMCA programs, go to www. athensymca.org or call 706-543-6596.

• In addition to their fitness center, weight room and indoor pool, the YWCO of Athens offers adult exercise programs and fitness classes for the body and mind.

Adult fitness classes are available for all levels and interests and include circuit training, dance aerobics, Pilates, step class, Zumba, yoga, cardio and weight training, water exercise, and more. The YWCO also works with SilverSneakers® Fitness Program, the nation’s leading fitness program designed exclusively for older adults. It promotes healthy, active lifestyles through unique physical activity programs. For more information about programs at the YWCO, visit www. ywco.org or call 706-354-7880.

• County senior centers offer a variety of wellness and fitness classes for their county’s senior residents. Many include fun and interactive group classes like Zumba, line dancing, yoga, walking, and general exercise. Contact the senior center in your county for more information.

athensMOVE.com 29

Family Zone Feature other articles 34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Healthy.Recipes 35 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Family.Challenge 36 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kids'.Tips 37 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Brain.Waves 38 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nutrition.Tips

KIDS’ VIEWS

What do YOU think?

Staying active during the holidays (and all winter) will help you: 30 Athens MOVE December/January

1. Be less susceptible to some sicknesses 2. Be more energetic 3. Keep your body moving, which helps you stay warm

4. Feel happier 5. All of the above Of course, the answer is 5. All of the above!

Keep MOVING DurING the hOlIDays!

by Marjie Foster, national editorial director for Global MOVE Media

I

know you don’t want to hear this, but … walking into the kitchen for more goodies and then sprinting back to the living room

to watch the next football game on television is NOT what we mean when we say “keep moving during the holidays.” Jumping up when the doorbell rings and then diving back in front of your favorite video game is NOT what we mean, either.

It’s so easy – for ALL of us – to take a few days off our normal activity regime. We find ourselves falling into the trap of saying, “I’ll just skip my treadmill time today, then get back on track tomorrow.” or “It won’t hurt me to miss my Zumba class during these weeks with all the other events going on.” The problem is that too many of us don’t get back in the routine. So the trick is to keep exercising, even when (or maybe especially when) the holiday calendar is filled with events, special foods, and limited time for our normally scheduled activities.

Whether you’re a youngster, a teen, or a parent, you can help your family find ways to stay active from now through the new year. And in the middle of all that activity, you’ll find ways to enjoy each other’s athensMOVE.com 31

Learn more about Geocaching at www.athensmove.com/recreation/geo-what company, too. At the end of this holiday season, you’ll be able to say "we had fun and stayed healthy, even while enjoying all the treats of the season!"

(even bunny slopes!) skiing to ice skating … hockey to making snow angels … it’s the stuff kids’ dreams are made of (and some of us grownups’ dreams as well).

weekend! Who can go the longest during

Number One tip for the grownups reading this article: Let the kids inspire you with winter activities. Chances are, many of the activities they choose won’t feel like exercise. They’ll just feel like fun things you’ve done with the youngsters. For instance, take a nature walk through the woods. If there’s a little snow on the ground (we can always hope), even better!

There’s nothing quite as invigorating as the amazing quiet that a snowfall brings to the forest. Maybe you’ve wanted to try geocaching. Winter is a perfect time to start! Geocaching is a treasure-hunting game using GPS devices to find ‘hidden treasures.’ We haven’t met anyone yet who doesn’t get a kick out of a great ‘find’ or even just the hunt!

If you find yourself weather-bound at home, try some of these indoor activities with the whole family:

Perhaps the best activity of all for a family

• Bring out the dance DVDs and let the kids laugh at your crazy dance moves!

or children’s hospital. Or walk through your

• Get a new game for the WiiFit

food pantry. Or organize a jump-rope-a-

Whether you have snow and ice on the ground or artificially manufactured at a rink or ski slope, take the family and head to the snow. From cross-country or downhill 32 Athens MOVE December/January

• Play your kids’ favorite music and create some dances together • Have a “Someone Else’s Treasure Hunt” – collect old clothes, used toys and appliances, and recycle them with a local charitable organization or church You’re going to think we’re crazy for suggesting this next one, but … have a Chore Party! Better yet, when was the last time you had Chore Olympics? Who can clean their rooms best? quickest? Winner gets their favorite dinner that night. Who can collect the most items of used clothing for “Someone Else’s Treasure Hunt”?

Winner gets to pick a family movie for the

the garage cleaning-out activity withOUT complaining? Winner gets a new book or toy or CD! this winter is … volunteering. Consider giving some time at a local soup kitchen neighborhood collecting donations for the thon to raise money for a local shelter. Let the kids come up with suggestions … you will be so proud of how much they want to help their neighbors, and how creative they will be with ideas!

Of course, there are always indoor activities like basketball, indoor swimming, batting cages, tumbling, dance, and more. What do your kids love to do? It’s okay not to do something organized. The important thing is to let everyone do something they find enjoyable. That’s what keeps people of all ages interested, enthusiastic, and committed to MOVing through the holidays and all year ‘round.

Family Zone

healthy ReCiPeS

Cheddar Cornbread Ingredients: Nonstick cooking spray 1-1/3 C all-purpose flour 2/3 C yellow cornmeal 3 T sugar 1-1/2 t baking powder 3/4 t baking soda 1/2 t salt 1/4 t pepper 1 C buttermilk 1/4 C canola oil 2 egg whites (beat lightly) 1/3 C grated cheddar (sharp or extra sharp) 1/4 C scallions, sliced thin Directions: 1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Lightly spray two eight-inch round cake pans with nonstick cooking spray.

2. Add all dry ingredients together and whisk to blend well.

3. Stir in the buttermilk, oil and egg whites until just combined.

4. Distribute the batter evenly between the pans; sprinkle with the cheddar and scallions

The New Green Bean Casserole Ingredients: 3 or 4 medium shallots (leave skins on) Kosher salt 1 lb. fresh green beans (remove stems and cut in half cross-wise) 1 T extra-virgin olive oil 3-1/2 to 4 C mushrooms, sliced then chopped 2 T unsalted butter 3 T all-purpose flour 1-1/2 C vegetable or chicken broth 3 t fresh thyme leaves Black pepper Vegetable cooking spray 1 C bread crumbs

5. Bake 15 to 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Directions:

6. Let cool, then slice, serve, and enjoy!

2. Put shallots on a small baking dish and roast until soft (about half an hour). When cool enough to handle, skin and roughly chop the shallots, then set aside.

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

3. Bring water in a medium to large (three- to 5-quart) saucepan to a boil over high heat.

4. Add the green beans, sprinkle with salt (to taste), and cook uncovered until crisp but tender and bright green (about three minutes). Drain and transfer to a separate bowl.

5. In the same saucepan, heat oil, then add the mushrooms, season with salt to taste, and cook – stirring occasionally – until browned (about seven minutes), then add the mushrooms to the beans.

6. Melt the butter, adding the flour and cooking, stirring with a wooden spoon, until golden (about two minutes). Slowly whisk in the broth and bring to boil.

7. Add the shallots, a teaspoon of thyme, and salt to taste. Cook until thickened, stirring occasionally. Pour the sauce over the vegetables and stir.

8. After spraying the baking dish with vegetable cooking spray, transfer the vegetable mixture to the baking dish. Add the remaining thyme to the bread crumbs and scatter over vegetables.

9. Bake until the sauce bubbles and the crumbs brown (about 20 minutes).

Tell us how you like these recipes on Twitter @athensmove or our Facebook page.

34 Athens MOVE December/January

Family Challenge Family Zone

a hole in one in the BathtuB? What is the challenge?

Get ready to create a golf course throughout your home! Work as a team to design the course or let each person design their own hole. The more turns, ramps, and bank shots the better. Plus, think outside the golf bag when it comes to clubs and balls. Golf balls, tennis balls, soft balls, nerf balls, putters, bats, umbrellas, canes, braided towels – almost anything will work. Holes can be buckets, cups, bathtubs, spaces between shelves, empty food cans, and lots more. Once the course has been designed, play a round and record your scores below.

What Will you need?

Creativity, accuracy, precision, and a stretch of the imagination, along with some interesting ‘golf clubs’ and ‘golf balls.’

discussion Questions: What part of the family challenge did you enjoy the most?

How many times did you laugh during this family challenge?

Were there any problems you had to solve during this challenge?

If so, how did you solve them?

Adapted from the book by the Resilient Families Institute titled A Family Game Changer. Visit www.FamiliesOn.com for more information. athensMOVE.com 35

Family Zone

Kids' Tips

Holiday Gifts tHat Keep you on tHe MoVe

by Brandon Gates and Marjie Foster, editorial team for Global MOVE Media

I

remember always wanting a trampoline as a kid, and one of the most significant trampoline memories I have from my earlier years actually deals with winter weather (I lived in Oklahoma at the time). One year – I was probably around seven or eight years old – a blizzard came in while I was staying at a friend’s house. We ended up being snowed in and I stayed there for a day or two longer than expected. He had a trampoline, and when we went out into his yard to jump on it, it was completely covered in snow. We had fun jumping around and bouncing the snow layers around.

Of course, trampolines are probably best for warmer weather, but I feel like any kid would appreciate getting one at any point.

And let’s face it, snow in Athens is not the norm, so we don’t have to worry too much about that here. But jumping around would keep you and your family warm, too, even if there is no snow!

So … here’s a list of holiday gift ideas that are family-friendly, fun, and fitnessfocused. They’re also sure to keep you warm while playing outside on cold winter days. Since I immediately thought of my childhood dream of having a trampoline, I put that as #1. As we do during all fitnessand activity-related activities and equipment discussions, we at Athens MOVE recommend that you consider your family’s physical and dietary safety whenever you consider such purchases.

36 Athens MOVE December/January

For Friends, Family, and Frivolity (not to mention exercise disguised as fun!)

1. Trampoline 2. Backyard swingset 3. Pogo stick 4. Badminton, croquet, cornhole, and other yard games 5. Bicycles and tricycles – make sure there’s one for every family member!

6. Camping equipment – backyard campouts are almost as fun as vacations!

7. Scooters (non-motorized) 8. Slackline – this is a safe, inexpensive, and easily-erected “tightrope” for the circus performers in all of us!

9. Light-up and glow-in-the-dark football – for after-dark fun For #10 and #11 on this list, we want to steer you to a different direction … toward preparing and enjoying healthy foods as a family!

10. BBQ grill (and the tools to go with it) 11. Cookbooks and recipes that let you create together can be found/purchased here: • 12 Great Cookbooks for Kids http://goo.gl/51GOe3 • Kids in the Holiday Kitchen: Making, Baking, Giving http://goo.gl/xExTak

BRRRR…

1

colder weather is on its way, and that means bundling up, enjoying the fireplace, holidays with family, and maybe even some snow. Have fun with this ‘winter weather’ puzzle!

3

4

Brain Waves Family Zone

2

5 6

7

8

9

10

11 12 13 14

15

16 17

18

Across 3.

The process by which snow or ice changes to water.

7.

A period of very cold winter weather that damages plants.

8.

Intensely cold temperatures.

11. The temperature felt by the human body when wind makes it feel colder than the actual temperature.

12. Mildly cold feeling.

14. Bright with sunshine.

16. Snowfall that is so heavy one can see little or nothing on the horizon.

17. Ice crystals on a frozen surface; "Old Jack ––––– ."

18. A large mass of snow that slides down a mountain.

9.

A solid form of frozen water.

10. A storm with heavy snow, strong winds, and severe cold.

13. Covered with snow and water.

14. A mixture of snow and water.

Down 1.

A standardized measure of how hot or cold it is outside.

2.

Rain that freezes as it falls.

4.

A tool used to measure the temperature.

5.

Water that falls to the earth in the form of rain, hail, mist, sleet, or snow.

15. Precipitation in the form of small white ice crystals that form inside clouds.

17. Thick water vapor that makes it hard to see.

6. Pieces of ice falling from the sky. athensMOVE.com 37

Family Zone nutrition tips

IN SEASON

What does that mean…

Y

ou’ve read in Athens MOVE (and other publications) that it’s best to eat fruits and vegetables “in season.”

What does that mean? An “in season” food means

it is either harvested at that time and that it is at its most flavorful at that time. (It also – usually – means the time when foods are their least expensive and freshest!)

So … what are winter’s “in season” fruits and veggies? We’ve shared a list of them below, with a next to foods that are grown year-round in many parts of the world. Enjoy!

• Apples

• Passion Fruit

• Dates

• Bananas

• Grapefruit

• Papayas

• Lemons

• Kiwi

• Persimmons

• Oranges

• Tangerines • Avocados • Red Currants • Pears

Of course, potatoes – white, gold, and sweet – are good year-round as well. And a surprise winter favorite is … radishes! Roast them or slice them and toss with a salad.

For more “in season” ideas, visit www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20319947,00.html and www.rodalenews.com/7-best-winter-fruits-protecting-your-heart.

38 Athens MOVE December/January

HealtH directory

atHens MoVe

introdUcing … atHens MoVe HealtH and nUtrition directory Hospitals

ortHopedic

peRFoRMAnce pediAtRics & spoRts Medicine

Athens RegionAl MedicAl centeR

Athens oRthopedic clinic

706-475-7000 www.athenshealth.org 1199 Prince Ave, Athens, GA

706-549-1663 www.athensorthopedicclinic.com 1765 Old West Broad St. Bldg. 2, Athens

706-850-8750 www.athensactivekids.com 1181 Langford Dr #101, Bogart, GA

oRthodontics & dentistRy

st MARy's heAth cARe systeM

Classic City Orthodontics 706-549-4748 www.classiccityorthodontics.com 1020 Jamestown Blvd., Bldg. 100, Watkinsville, GA

706-389-3000 www.stmarysathens.org 1230 Baxter St. Athens, GA

internal Medicine & priMary care 706-548-8600 www.athensinternalmedicine.com 1500 Oglethorpe Ave., Suite 400A, Athens GA

706-353-3500 www.waorthodontics.com 2470 Daniells Bridge Rd #201, Athens, GA

dR. John FRAntz, dds 706-769-1945 www.johnsfrantzdmd.com 1120 Mars Hill Rd #100, Watkinsville, GA

AthenA MedicAl clinic 706-850-6383 www.athenamedicalclinic.com 1500 Oglethorpe Ave Ste 3100. Athens

hAwthoRn MedicAl AssociAtes

ATHENS MOVE

Athens: 706-353-8700, Watkinsville: 706-769-3331 www.hawthornemed.com 120 Hawthorne Park, Athens, GA 30606 1351 Stonebridge Parkway, BldgHOSPITALS 105, Watkinsville, GA

pediatrics

RESOURCE DIRECTORY

pediAtRic pARtneRs

706-548-1216 www.pediatricpartnersga.com 1500 Langford Dr., Suite 100 Watkinsville, GA

ATHENS REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER

Phone: (706) 475-7000 Website: www.athenshealth.org Athens MOVE shares a common passion for improving the lives of our citizens Address: 1199 Prince Ave, Athens, GA 30606 and community through sports, recreation, fitness, and wellness programs. In doing so, we feel it is important to provide our readers with a much-needed ST. MARYS HEALTH SYSTEM health and nutrition directory features, doctors, dentist, orthopedics, Phone: that 706-389-3000 Website: www.stmarysathens.org chiropractors, and many other related health providers in our area.

Address: 1230 Baxter St, Athens, GA 30606 28,000 copies of Athens MOVE magazine are distributed six times a year in greater Athens and the surrounding counties. Through our school GEORGIA ELITE GYMNASTICS partnerships, a copy of our Athens MOVE magazine is sent home to the Phone: (706) 769-1786 families of students from Website: K-8 in allwww.georgiaelitegymnastics.com, four of the county school districts plus most of the private schools.

Additional distribution includes high schools, Address: 1010 Lampkin Branch Dr., UGA, sports and recreation facilities, medical facilities, local employers, Watkinsville retail locations, and other community locations.

• • •

CENTER List your organizationOCONEE or practiceGYMNASTICS or clinic in our Health and Nutrition Phone: (706) 769-1239 Directory in print and online Email: staff@oconeegymnastics.com Multi-media combination of awww.oconeegymnastics.com high quality magazine, website, digital Website: magazine, e-newsletter, and social media Address: 1090 Jamestown Blvd., Watkinsville

Distributed to every student in K-8th grade in Clarke, Oconee, CLARKE OCONEE Madison, and Oglethorpe county schools TENNIS ASSOCIATION

(COTA)

Get more information Website: www.cotatennis.net Email:

hoRizon physicAl theRApy

wAugh & Allen oRthodontics

Athens inteRnAl Medicine AssociAtes

president@cotatennis.net

or register your business at Address: P.O. Box 1242, Athens

www.athensmove.com/hnd

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS ATHENS COMMUNITY COUNCIL ON AGING Phone: (706) 549-4850 Email: kholt@accaging.org Website: www.accaging.org Address: 135 Hoyt Street, Athens

pHysical tHerapy & reHabilitation 706-548-7300 www.horizonphysicaltherapy.com 1360 Caduceus Way, Bldg. 200, Watkinsville, GA

spARc – spoRts peRFoRMAnce And RehAbilitAtion centeR 706-286-7338 www.sparcathens.com 1765 Old West Broad, Bldg 3, Athens, GA

Urgent care Athens RegionAl FiRstcARe Athens: 706-353-6000 Watkinsville: 706-769-0000 www.regionalfirstcare.org 485 Highway 29 North, Athens, GA 30601 1960 Experiment Station, Watkinsville, GA

Reddy MedicAl gRoup 706-621-7575

PEDIATRICIAN www.reddymedicalgroup.com

DANCE & PERF

1061 Dowdy rd. #101, Athens, GA

PEDIATRIC PARTNERS

CANOPY STUDIO

Phone: (706) 548-1216 Website: www.pediatricpartnersga.com Address: 1500 Virgil Langford Rd, Bogart, GA

Phone: (706) 254-2111 Email: melissa@canop Website: www.canopystu Address: 160-6 Tracy St.,

Print

SUNSHINE PEDIATRICS PC Phone: (706) 769-9410 Website: www.sunshine-pediatrics.com Address: 1160 Capital Ave, Watkinsville, GA

ALICE DEPASS ST

DR. VICTOR A. MORALES, MD

Phone: (706) 769-1177 Email: depassfrontdesk Website: www.depassstu Address: 1041 Park Drive

Phone: (706) 389-3000 Address: 1230 Baxter St, Athens, GA 30606

STUDIO DANCE AC

Online

OCONEE PEDIATRICS Phone: (706) 769-7743 Website: www.oconeepeds.com Address: 1020 Twelve Oaks Pl, Ste A, Watkinsville, GA

ORTHODONTICS OUTDOORS WITHOUT LIMITS Phone: (803) 480-0167 Email: kthomas@outdoorswithoutlimits.net Website: www.outdoorswithoutlimits.net Address: 333 Briarwood Trail, Winterville

ACTIVE CLIMBING Phone: (706) 354-0038 Email: jackie@activeclimbing.com Website: www.activeclimbing.com Address: 665 Barber St., Athens

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Phone: (706) 354-6454 Email: reddanceccb@y Website: www.thestudiod Address: Located behind T Epps Bridge Sho

SPORTS & REC FACILITIES

ATHENS-CLARKE LEISURE SERVICE

Phone: (706) 613-3800 Email: leisureservices@a Website: www.accleisure Address: 205 Old Comme

MADISON COUNT

Phone: (706) 795-6270

Email: 39 mcrec@madiso athensMOVE.com

Website: www.madcorec.

Address: 1345 Hwy 98 W

AthEns MOVE

REsOuRcE diREctORy

SPORTS

FITNESS & TRAINING

ATHENS UNITED SOCCER ASSOCIATION

ATHENS vERTICAL POLE DANCE ACADEMY

Phone: (706) 353-2241

Phone: (706) 347-3708

Email:

Email:

ausamanager@gmail.com

Website: www.athensunited.net Address: 2350 Prince Ave., Ste. 1, Athens

DOWNTOWN MINISTRIES SPORTS Email:

ben@downtownministries.org

Website: www.downtownministries.org Address: 165 Pulaski St., Athens

GEORGIA ELITE GYMNASTICS Phone: (706) 769-1786

ATHENS-CLARkE COUNTY LEISURE SERvICES

Website: www.avpda.com

Phone: (706) 613-3800

Address: 160 Tracey St., Athens

Email:

BODYPLEX (3 LOCATIONS) Eastside: (706) 548-9999 1225 Cedar Shoals Dr., Athens Westside: (706) 548-3481 196 Alps Rd., Athens Oconee: (706) 310-0811 1260 Mars Hill Rd., Watkinsville

Website: www.georgiaelitegymnastics.com Address: 1010 Lampkin Branch Dr.,

info@avpda.com

SPORTS & RECREATION FACILITIES

Website: www.BodyPlex.com

leisureservices@athensclarkecounty.com

Website: www.accleisureservices.com Address: 205 Old Commerce Rd, Athens

MADISON COUNTY RECREATION DEPT. Phone: (706) 795-6270 Email:

mcrec@madisonco.us

Website: www.madcorec.com Address: 1345 Hwy 98 West, Danielsville

CORE BLEND TRAINING & WELLNESS

OCONEE GYMNASTICS CENTER

OCONEE COUNTY PARkS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT

Phone: (404) 542-8047

Phone: (706) 769-1239

Website: www.coreblendtraining.com

Phone: (706) 769-3965

Email:

Address: 1230 Greensboro Hwy., Watkinsville

Watkinsville

staff@oconeegymnastics.com

Website: www.oconeegymnastics.com Address: 1090 Jamestown Blvd., Watkinsville

CLARkE OCONEE TENNIS ASSOCIATION (COTA) Email:

president@cotatennis.net

Website: www.cotatennis.net Address: P.O. Box 1242, Athens

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS ATHENS COMMUNITY COUNCIL ON AGING Phone: (706) 549-4850 Email:

kholt@accaging.org

Website: www.accaging.org Address: 135 Hoyt Street, Athens

PURE BARRE ATHENS Phone: (706) 850-4000 Email:

athens@purebarre.com

Website: www.purebarre.com/ga-athens Address: 191 Alps Road Suite 17, Athens

RECREATION OUTDOORS WITHOUT LIMITS Phone: (803) 480-0167 Email:

kthomas@outdoorswithoutlimits.net

Website: www.outdoorswithoutlimits.net Address: 333 Briarwood Trail, Winterville

Phone: (706) 354-0038

Phone: (706) 549-9225

Email:

Email:

Website: www.activeclimbing.com

Website: www.athensacademy.org

jackie@activeclimbing.com

Address: 665 Barber St., Athens

Address: 1281 Spartan Lane, Athens

MARTIAL ARTS LIvE OAk MARTIAL ARTS Phone: (706) 548-0077 Email:

liveoakmartialarts@gmail.com

Website: www.liveoakmartialarts.com Address: 400-C Commerce Blvd, Bogart

BARNETT TAE kWON DO ACADEMY Phone: (706) 543-9966 Email:

barnettjoh@clarke.k12.ga.us

Website: www.BarnettTaeKwonDoAcademy.com

wengland@oconee.ga.us

Website: www.ocprd.com Address: 3500A Hog Mountain Road, Watkinsville

YWCO Phone: (706) 354-7880 Email:

YWCOfrontdesk@gmail.com

Website: www.ywco.org Address: 562 Research Drive, Athens

ATHENS YMCA Phone: (706) 543-6596 Email:

chris@athensymca.org

Website: www.athensymca.org Address: 915 Hawthorne Ave., Athens

ACTIvE CLIMBING

ATHENS ACADEMY academy@athensacademy.org

Email:

DANCE & PERFORMING ARTS CANOPY STUDIO Phone: (706) 254-2111 Email:

melissa@canopystudio.com

Website: www.canopystudio.com Address: 160-6 Tracy St., Athens

ALICE DEPASS STUDIO OF DANCE, INC. Phone: (706) 769-1177 Email:

depassfrontdesk@hotmail.com

Website: www.depassstudioofdance.com

To learn more about any of these organizations or businesses visit athensmove.com To add your organization or

Address: 1041 Park Drive, Watkinsville

business to our

ATHENS FITNESS AND MIXED MARTIAL ARTS

STUDIO DANCE ACADEMY

directory email us at

Phone: (706) 850-8444

Email:

Email:

Website: www.thestudiodanceacademy.com

Address: 2250 Barnett Shoals Rd., Athens

info@athensfitnessandmma.com

Website: www.athensfitnessandmma.com Address: 240 Collins Industrial Blvd., Ste. G, Athens

40 Athens MOVE December/January

Phone: (706) 354-6454 reddanceccb@yahoo.com

Address: Located behind Trader Joe’s, Epps Bridge Shopping Center, Athens

info@athensmove.com

deCember - January

Calendar

December 6

JANuArY 10

WALTON cHAmber OF cOmmerce HALF mArATHON AND 5K 8am @ Harmony Elementary School Monroe www.classicraceservices.com

6TH ANNuAL PILOT cLub cHASe 5K ruN/WALK 8am @ Oconee Veterans Park www.classicraceservices.com

ST. JuDe 5K 8am @ Athens GA www.active.com

JANuArY 17

December 7

JAYceeS JANuArY JOG 5K AND 10.2K 7:30 @ Rocket Field, Watkinsville

JANuArY 19

3rD ANNuAL HOLLY JOLLY eLF TrOT 5K AND FuN ruN 1:30pm @ Candler St, Winder www.classicraceservices.com

5TH ANNuAL mL5K AND DreAm DASH 2:15pm @ Dudley Park www.classicraceservices.com

December 20

JANuArY 31

2014 JINGLe JOG 5K AND FuN ruN 9am @ Barrow County Rec Dept www.classicraceservices.com

INAuGurAL WINTerVILLe SNOWFLAKe 10K 8am @ Pittard Park Winterville www.classicraceservices.com

WILL cHAmberLIN memOrIAL SANTA STrOLL 8K 8am @ Bishop Baptist Church

WJIS SHADOW SHuFFLe 5K 2pm @ Hoschton, GA www.runnersfit.com

www.classicraceservices.com

FebruArY 21

JANuArY 1

TINA bOrG cLASSIc 5K beNeFITING WINSHIP cANcer INSTITuTe TBA @ Stegeman Coliceum www.active.com

HAPPY NeW YeAr 9TH ANNuAL NeW YeArS AT NOON 5K 11am @ Sandy Creek Park www.active.com

JANuArY 3 NeW YeAr'S reSOLuTION TrAIL ruN 8K 8:30am @ Fort Yargo State Park www.active.com

FrOSTY FuN ruN & 5K TrAIL rAce 9:30am @ Crows Lake www.runnersfit.com

WeeKLY cYcLING rIDeS To join ride visit www.athensgabicycling.com

Check out our online calendar at athensmove.com and see more events, details, costs, maps and much, much more.

Have an event? Add yours to our calendar FREE and you can include links and photos, and share it with social media. Email us at info@athensmove.com

Life Zone Feature other articles 46 . . . . . . . . . . . . Making a Difference 48 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kid Fiction 50 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inspiring MOVES

42 Athens MOVE December/January

What is it like to be a Vegetarian?

by Avni Patel,

student in the UGA Health Promotion & Behavior program

B

eing a vegetarian for most of my life has definitely had its ups and downs.

When I tell people I am a vegetarian, they say one of two things: “What do you eat then?” or “That’s why you’re so skinny!”

Both of these statements are obviously wrong. Being a vegetarian for 18 years was probably the best thing I could have done for my body.

Broadly defined, a vegetarian is a person who does not eat meat, poultry, and fish. Vegetarians eat mainly fruit, vegetables, legumes (dry fruit and beans), grains, seeds, and nuts. Many vegetarians eat eggs and/or dairy products, but avoid hidden animal products such as beef and chicken stocks, lard, and gelatin.

Generally, there are three ways most vegetarians are classified: vegans or total vegetarians, lactovegetarians and lacto-ovo-vegetarians: Vegans or total vegetarians exclude all animal products (e.g. meat, poultry, fish, eggs, milk, cheese, and other dairy products) from their diet.

Lactovegetarians exclude meat, poultry, fish, and eggs, but include dairy products in their diet.

Lacto-ovo-vegetarians exclude meat, poultry, and fish, but include dairy products and eggs.

People are vegetarian for many reasons, including concern for personal health and the environment, compassion for animals, or spiritual reasons. It has often been assumed that some people become vegetarian in order to lose weight. However, recent studies have shown that adopting a vegetarian diet does not lead to eating disorders. Some vegetarian diets may actually be selected to camouflage an existing athensMOVE.com 43

eating disorder. However, it is important to note that no one should make an assumption about why a person chooses a vegetarian diet, because there are many reasons for people to do so.

Food nutritionists have been concerned about this issue for years, and encourage individuals who want to adopt vegetarianism to fully understand their reasons for choosing to do so.

Society and our commerce system have contributed to the perception that following a vegetarian diet is expensive. Most people assume being a vegetarian entails getting groceries from higher-end fresh markets and organic foods, but that’s not always the case. Affordable organic foods are found in everyday groceries stores and are just as good as the fruits and veggies in fresh markets.

Vegan specialty foods, like prepared veggie burgers, tofu, etc., are sometimes more expensive than their non-vegan counterparts but, fortunately, they aren’t the only options. Prepared food will always be more expensive than food you make yourself, so buying the ingredients and making them at home will typically save you money. Veggie staples such as pasta, rice, tofu, and beans are much cheaper than meat. And the money you save from

Did you know ...?

In many ways, an athlete’s nutritional requirements aren't much different from other students, including those who choose to be less active.

Both need: • A variety of nutrients, including vitamins and minerals • About the same requirements for fat • Almost the same amount of protein (although an athlete needs slightly more than a non-athlete)

KIDS’ VIEWS • An athlete’s carbohydrate need is generally much higher. ‘Carbs’ are the body's most efficient energy source, one upon which all athletes and active people rely. Without adequate carbohydrate sources in the diet, an athlete will "hit the wall" very quickly during a workout, and find that overall, s/he just isn’t feeling up to par.

• Athletes generally require more from all the food groups and may even have extra room for foods usually thought of as empty calorie treats.

not buying meat can go toward paying just a little extra for nondairy milk and other healthy staples, like fruits and vegetables.

Some people also worry that with a vegetarian diet, individuals aren’t able to consume adequate amounts of the essential nutrients needed to be healthy.

Vegetarian and total vegetarian diets both provide adequate protein. The dailyrecommended intake for protein is 0.8 grams/kilograms and can be consumed through a variety of healthier sources such as soy, rice, beans, hummus, peanut butter, etc. Vitamin B12 is found only in animal products and as a result, vegetarians should take a supplement form of B12.

Fortified cereals and grain products are a reliable source of vitamin B12. Calcium can be obtained from leafy greens, vegetables, broccoli, almonds, carrots, and so on. And

44 Athens MOVE December/January

lastly, iron is readily available in a wide variety of foods such as spinach, kidney beans, lentils, and whole wheat bread.

There are several benefits to vegetarianism as well. Vegetarians are at lower risk for developing heart disease, diabetes, cancer (colorectal, ovarian and breast), obesity, and hypertension.

A spokesperson for the American Heart Association, Dr. Rachel K Johnson, says, "Fatty red meats and many processed meats are high in saturated fat, which raises LDL (bad) cholesterol and increases risk of coronary heart disease." In one study of more than 35,000 women published in the British Journal of Cancer, those who ate the most red and processed meat were found to have the highest risk of breast cancer.

Other research has linked meat consumption to colon, prostate, pancreatic, and gastric cancers as well. One theory, according to non-profit group The Cancer Project, is that foods with high levels of fat artificially boost the hormones that promote cancer. When it comes to weight loss and obesity, new studies show that instead of focusing on reducing calories, most weight-loss interventions have recognized that vegan and vegetarian dietary patterns can result in more weight loss than those that include meat without emphasizing caloric restriction. A large-scale 2010 study from Imperial College London found that those who ate about 250 grams a day (the size of one half-pound steak) of red meat, poultry, or processed meat gained more weight over five years than those who ate less meat, even if they consumed the same amount of calories overall.

The key to any healthy diet is to choose a wide variety of foods and to consume enough calories to meet your energy needs. Before making a change, you must be sure to fully understand the health risks and benefits of becoming a vegetarian and consult a physician with any concerns.

legumes, and whole grains the focus of your meals. Fortunately, there is much more information available on vegetarian diets today to make the journey smoother.

The way to lasting change is by taking small steps on your way to that goal.

However you choose to make the change, you can begin to achieve the health benefits of vegetarianism by significantly cutting down on the amount of meats consumed, and making vegetables, fruits,

For more information, check these websites: www.eatright.org • www.vrg.org www.heart.org • www.vegetariantimes.com kidshealth.org/teen/food_fitness/nutrition/vegetarian.html

athensMOVE.com 45

Life Zone

Making a Difference

GivinG Kids a

s.P.a.R.C.

by Sherri Goggin,

director of the Mulherin Foundation for Health & Wellness

B

ishop Park wasn’t the only home turf of the championship Downtown Falcons 12U football team this season. On September 30, Athens’ sports performance training facility, S.P.A.R.C., welcomed these young athletes to an evening of speed and agility training

designed just for them. High fives and aerial body bumps filled the room as each player’s individual talents were showcased. Whose 20-yard-dash was the fastest? Whose vertical jump was highest? These were top news stories of the evening!

46 Athens MOVE December/January

ATHENS ORTHOPEDIC CLINIC

By the end of the two-hour session, everyone was energized with a bragging right!

S.P.A.R.C. general manager and Olympic gold medalist, Adam Nelson, wanted to give these young players an up-close and personal feel of what an elite athlete’s training regimen looks like. In addition to the competitive speed and agility drills, the team was instructed on proper technique and strategies to improve their skill level.

Keeping the Care in Urgent Care.

Coach Ben Farnsworth, director of sports and community outreach for Downtown Ministries, was thrilled with the opportunity for his senior team to train at S.P.A.R.C.: “… For our kids to be able to have coaching and training from Olympic and college athletes is an opportunity and experience most children will never have.”

Established in 2003 as a program of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in Athens, Downtown Ministries began as a mission geared toward helping and shaping the inner-city youth of Athens. What started as one Downtown Falcons football team has grown to include four football teams for players aged four to 12 years, four cheerleading squads, three boys and one girls basketball team, and a gymnastics team that was added last spring.

In August 2013, the ministry launched Downtown Academy, a private, Christ-centered school serving the same inner-city youth as the sports teams have done for 10 years. Through passionate leadership and dedicated support from our community, both Downtown Ministries and Downtown Academy are impacting lives and building loving relationships with inner-city youth in the Athens community.

The mission and work of Downtown Ministries caught the attention of the Mulherin Foundation. Discovering their shared passion for inner-city youth, the foundation and the ministry teamed up to support their programs and offer a little something unique.

The Mulherin Foundation is the product of Athens Orthopedic Clinic’s love for community and desire to make a positive impact in

.

Adult & pediatric care On-site X-ray Open 7 days a week No appointment necessary

.

AthensOrthopedicClinic.com | 706.433.4030 | 125 King Ave., Athens, GA the communities they serve. Affectionately named after William “Butch” Mulherin, MD, founding physician of Athens Orthopedic Clinic, the foundation focuses its efforts on serving at-risk children through healthy nutrition and physical activity. Partnering with local organizations with similar missions makes magical synergy!

Hosting the Downtown Falcons at Athens Orthopedic’s S.P.A.R.C clinic this fall is just one example of this type of partnership.

Even AOC dietician, Tena Daniel, wanted to be involved with the young athletes’ visit to S.P.A.R.C.: ”I really enjoy teaching young athletes that the way they eat has a tremendous impact on performance.” Tena has an unforgettable way of teaching. Her ‘concession stand’ smoothie included two hot dogs, nachos and cheese, candy bar, and a 20-ounce soda. After blending all these ingre-

dients into a smoothie, the entire team agreed they’d much rather have the real smoothie Tena made next using real frozen strawberries, Greek yogurt, and a touch of fruit juice!

With wide eyes and a contagious spirit of joy, the young athletes soaked up their evening at S.P.A.R.C., but the ear-to-ear smiles told the real story. By the end of the session, it was hard to tell who had the most fun … the Downtown Falcons or the S.P.A.R.C. trainers and staff!

athensMOVE.com 47

Life Zone

Kid fiction

SECOND SEASON Part 3 of 6

by Clint Foster When the season finished, Ben had a conversation with his parents about not playing football the next year. They told him that they respected his decision, and that they always loved him regardless of athletic prowess or sport affiliation. They did, however, make sure Ben was the one to turn in his pads and shake the coach’s hand, thanking him for the guidance and letting him know that he wouldn’t be coming out for football the next year.

The coach had looked him in the eye and thanked him for the good, hard work this year. He expressed regret that Ben wouldn’t be coming out again, and reminded him that there’s always a place on the team if he changes his mind.

Ben was glad when it was over. It was uncomfortable to quit something, even if it didn’t feel like quitting since the season was already over. His mother had been very proud, she said, that he’d stuck with it as long as he did. They stopped at Baskin Robbins and he got a double scoop of mint chocolate chip. He felt a smidge better after that.

After making the varsity basketball team last year as a sophomore, Cassie knew her junior year would hold high expectations.

Her coach had the customary one-on-one meetings with all of the players, making sure they knew where they stood on the team, what their responsibilities were, that they needed to keep their grades up, and so on.

48 Athens MOVE December/January

Coach Shelley, nicknamed “The Shell” for her callous appearance, was a surprisingly tender woman when it came to her players. Not on the court, of course, but in their confidence, or when telling them tough news. Her meeting with Cassie had been very different from the previous year’s.

and darker-skinned, sweated and strained with the clanking weights.

“How do you feel like practices are going?”

“Maybe, but I’d love to watch you run further than the couch-to-fridge dash.”

Cassie always felt like this was a trick question, and tried her best to guess what The Shell wanted to hear. “They’re good.

Tough, sometimes, but we’re learning a bunch of stuff right now so it’ll be kinda iffy for a while.”

Carlos ticked the treadmill up a notch to make sure Mick had to concentrate more on running and less on trying to be funny. “Is track even a sport?”

The Shell nodded. Once. “Do you expect to start this year?”

“I expect to work myself hard enough to earn a starting spot, Coach.”

A smile cracked through the craggy face of Coach Shelley, “Well said. Go on and get ready for practice.”

There were still a few weeks of practice before the first games, so no roster had been set, but Cassie found herself practicing with the varsity team almost every play. After all, she’d earned it.

Carlos and Mick made an odd couple in the weight room. Mick, thin as a rail and pale as an eggshell, took confident strides on the treadmill. Carlos, a touch pudgy

“Wanna trade?” Mick grinned at his companion.

“Please … your puny muscles cannot match mine.” Carlos did his best Schwarzenegger, flexing for emphasis.

“I think it’s more like a hobby.” Mick answered, face screwed into focus as he tried to run and think at the same time.

“You don’t play track, you don’t go to a track game. You don’t even meet people at meets.”

“Maybe you don’t. The throwers are all pals.”

“And all competing for second place, from what I hear.”

Carlos blushed. He’d been somewhat of a prodigy at the shot put and he still wasn’t sure how he felt about the praise he’d received. “Yeah, yeah.”

He sat back on the bench, checking the dusty clock in the corner. It read 12:15, the same time it always said. His phone, however, showed it was 3:30. “I gotta go, bro. Enjoy your jog.” He ticked the treadmill up again as he scooted towards band practice.

Ricky hobbled into the weight room shortly after Carlos had left. “’Sup, Mick?”

“My heart rate.”

Ricky grinned, posting his crutches on the wall and hopping toward the dumbbells. He’d torn two ligaments in his knee the game before the playoffs. He watched the play on film and criticized himself over and over on how differently it should have gone. If he’d read the play better, he would have been somewhere else. If he were faster, he would’ve been out of the line of fire.

None of his frustration mattered now.

The doctor had told him it would be at least six months until he could do anything without the brace. So here he was, sitting in the weight room with one leg completely stretched out, lifting the dumbbells and already focusing on next year.

“Ricky, bro, you alright?” Mick’s voice shook him from his self-pitying reverie.

“Yeah, just … frustrated, you know?”

The playoffs had already started, and his team had won two games without him.

He was proud, but it stung that he felt like they didn’t need him to win.

“Just think how tough and manly you’ll look with all that beach-body lifting you’re doin’ though, eh?” Mick tried to prod his friend. He knew Ricky had been hurting other places than his knee. His grades were slipping this year. ‘Sports brain,’ was Mick’s name for it, and he’d tried to tutor Ricky whenever he could.

They’d made some progress at least. It was a start.

“I’ll be back.” Ricky’s Arnold impersonation was significantly closer to the real thing than Carlos’. “With my huge biceps and disproportionate back muscles.” He posed.

“And speedo.”

The two shared a moment of levity

that helped ease their workouts. Mick finished up his run about the time Ricky gave up trying to do single-leg squats.

They walked out into the cool afternoon together, cracking jokes until they went their separate ways.

The Second Season is in full swing as an ongoing feature that follows the story of kids just like you. Fifth grader Ben just finished his first football season and has decided that’s not the sport for him. Ricky – one of Ben’s older sister Cassie’s friends – is an upperclassmen who is considered a leader, even though now he’s injured. Check back each issue to follow along as Cassie, Ricky, Carlos, and Mick play, study, and grow up together.

Clint Foster is a Georgia native. Read more from Clint at www.facebookcom/ClintFosterAuthor and www.clint-foster.com.

athensMOVE.com 49

Life Zone

inspiring Moves

Strong in CharaCter and name

by Gary LeFeuvre, executive director of Athens MOVE

A

t a time when the news is filled with stories of professional athletes who are abusing drugs, cheating, breaking laws and just behaving badly,

we start to question if they are the best role models for kids. The problem is that we just hear about the few bad ones. We seldom hear about the many outstanding current and former professional athletes who are giving back in their communities and inspiring kids and adults alike. In the greater Athens area, Carlos Strong is just that kind of person.

After playing professional basketball in the NBA and for numerous teams around the world, Carlos has returned to Athens, where he was born and raised by his single mother … the place where his mother and coaches helped him lay the foundation for his career. Under their guidance and support, he learned how to stay focused on his school work and stay out of trouble so he could have fun playing the sport he loved. When he graduated from Cedar Shoals High School, he was the number three college recruit in the country and had played on the All-American Team with Jason Kidd and others. Although he could have gone to any school in the country, Carlos decided to stand by his Dawgs and play for UGA before turning pro.

Retired from professional basketball, Carlos has found his way back to Athens because he wants to give back in the community that he came from, and his focus is on kids. He explains, “Basketball is a sport that you may not go far with, but it’s great exercise and gets kids out of the house. Some kids really want to play but don’t have the guidance to get better. I just want to be a part of working with kids and making a difference. I feel that basketball has given me an avenue to reach kids. They look at me and because I played in the NBA, they listen to me a little more. It gets their attention and then it’s my job to focus that and deliver a good message to them. I want them to understand that no matter 50 Athens MOVE December/January

how good you are on the court, you can’t make it without school and without character. I wasn’t necessarily the best basketball player in Athens, but I did things the right way. There were kids better than I was, but they went down the wrong road and that’s the message I am trying to give to kids.”

As director of Carlos Strong’s Basketball Camps and Clinics, Carlos has begun to build a nonprofit organization that will help him amplify his message and reach kids of all ages and abilities throughout the greater Athens area. Currently, he is volunteering his time to coach and mentor kids through the YMCA, YWCO, and Oglethorpe County Schools. Carlos is working with organizations like ESP (Extra Special People) to conduct basketball clinics for people with disabilities. These annual clinics will be held in conjunction with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities in November.

We are inspired by Carlos Strong and encourage you to visit his website, www.strongball.com, to find out how you can work with Carlos and support his organization and mission to make a difference in the lives of kids in our community.

"There were kids better than I was, but they went down the wrong road and that’s the message I am trying to give to kids."

athensMOVE.com 52

Stephanie had done the research on breast cancer. She knew Athens Regional was the right choice.

Dr. Cody Gunn Stephanie’s Surgeon, ARMC

In his decades as a surgeon, Dr. Cody Gunn had never met a patient quite like Stephanie Sharp. While most patients are understandably nervous about the process of healing and look to their physicians and caregivers for guidance, Stephanie approached her challenge by taking the reigns and leading her team into battle. And thanks to Dr. Gunn and her entire team efforts of her physicians, nurses, caregivers, friends and family members, Stephanie is cancer free and is dedicated to helping other women during their recovery journeys.

To schedule your mammogram today, call 706.475.4960 or go online to AthensHealth.org/GetMammo.

Watch Stephanie’s story at AthensHealth.org/Cancer