January 19, 2018

January 19th - February 1st, 2018

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

See Our Listings Inside this edition...

Pages 25 - 32

Special Feature The Limestone Health Facility Spotlight On Wynell Reynolds...

Mrs. Wynell Reynolds was born at home near Cross Key on February 18, 1939, “right in the middle” of two brothers and two sisters...

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PlayAction Sports

The Boys And Girls Club: Helping Athens Kids For 25 Years

By Ali Elizabeth Turner On Thursday, February 8, the Athens Boys and Girls Club is going to be celebrating its 25th annual dinner at 6:30 p.m. at the Beasley Center, and you are invited. So, what’s this shindig all about? For 80 years, the Boys and Girls Club has had a helpful presence in North Alabama, beginning in Huntsville and Decatur. Planning for the Athens start-up began Continued on page 15

Limestone County – Remembering The Old And Celebrating The New

New Year, New Opportunities for Local Athletes...

The new year began with more scholarship signings for local athletes.

James Clemens’ Amy Haddock will be continuing...

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By Michelle Williamson

Clean And Green

Limestone County Community Relations Coordinator

Adopt-A-Spot Program Rewards Our Community Twice...

I would like to take this opportunity to introduce you to a few of our outstanding Adopt-ASpot volunteers and the organizations that have...

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January 19 - February 1, 2018

In 1919, the citizens of Limestone County welcomed the completion of their Limestone County Courthouse. This historic beauty located in the heart of

Continued on pages 17

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January 19 - February 1, 2018

Publisher’s Point

What A Time To Be Alive!

Publisher / Editor Ali Turner

Copy Editor

Yvonne Dempsey

Graphic Design

Jonathan Hamilton

Web Design Teddy Wolcott

Contributing Writers Janet Hunt D. A. Slinkard Paul Foreman Lisa Philippart Lynne Hart Wanda Campbell Anna Hamilton Michelle Williamson Teresa Todd Tim Lambert Jackie Warner Deb Kitchenmaster Dr. John Boyle, D.C.

Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . 4 Limestone Health Spotlight . . 5 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . 6 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 8 Slinkard on Success . . . . . . 9 Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . 10 PlayAction Sports . . . . . 11 Clean and Green . . . . . . . 12 Cooking With Anna . . . . 13 Cover Stories . . . . . . . . 15 & 17 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 16 Learning As A Lifestyle . . . 18 View From The Bridge . . . . 19 Horse Whispering . . . . . 20

I have a daily ritual, and it involves getting my coffee in the morning, complete with a dab of coconut oil in it, sitting down, opening up my journal, and writing down five things for which I am grateful. If my journals are left behind for any who might be interested in reading the record of my life, most often the earlymorning “AM Grats” listing is going to start out with number one being coffee, and number two being sun. Anyone who is from the “Great Northwet” understands the importance of the first two, trivial and shallow as they may seem.

They just get my gratitude juices flowing, and then I move into weightier matters like Steve (my husband), my salvation, my family, the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, being an American woman, Juice Plus, or some specific thing that has seemed as though it was specially delivered as a tender grace from Abba Father. Being able to do Athens Now as a later-inlife career for which I had no training is one of my “grats” as well, even though there are moments when I wonder, “Why did we decide to do this again?” That often hits on Publication Day, has been pushed aside for the last seven years, and I almost always sigh with amazement and humble satisfaction at having the team and the opportunity to bring “information and inspiration” to the Tennessee Valley. Through the miracle of

Mental Health Minute . . . 21 Medical Update . . . . . . . . 22 Foreman's Forum . . . . . . . . 23

January 19 - February 1, 2018

online publishing, we are also now read all over the world.

Developing an attitude of “guerilla gratitude” is crucial in successfully shooting the rapids of contemporary life because now, more than I can ever remember, we are surrounded by bitter, fearful people. These folks look at people, who are grateful to be alive, and are committed to wrestling life to the

abuse of all kinds, and the worst life slings at us can make it challenging beyond belief, and I understand it from experience. However, I have met many who are smack dab in the middle of the very things described above, and they still can say, “It is well with my soul.”

I think this is most dramatically exhibited in our senior care facilities, and we have some excellent ones

the most is when the frail still choose to use their limited energy to help others.

One such permanent resident at the Limestone Health Facility leads an abundant life using her walker, takes a long stroll down the many halls in order to get exercise, and makes sure that her friend is in tow. They stop and visit folks along the way, and she expresses affection and concern for all that she meets. I know from having previously interviewed her that the loss of her husband of 64 years knocked her for a loop, but she has landed on her feet with the help of her walker, her faith, her family, and the facility, and she is a “gratitude guerilla.” Another lost a child 55 years ago, and the grit with which she could say, “All things work together for good,” made a lump form in my throat. She knows where she’s been, she knows where she’s going, and her story, as common as she feels that it is, has strength in it for all who will listen.

What a time to be alive!

The good, the bad and the ugly are all friends in different disguises, waiting to be discovered and made into a “documentary,” that if heeded will strengthen your soul and spirit, and nourish those around you long after you are gone.

ground until their last breath as being more than wack-adoodle. How can it be for some that it is an amazing time to be alive, while others pray for death to take them?

I understand that illness, chronic pain, loss, death, divorce, broken relationships,

here in Limestone County. I get the chance to interview residents and tell you their stories, which are often told through the oddly beautifying glow of gratitude emanating out of a frail and sometimes pain-wracked body. I think what gets me

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

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All Things Soldier

Uncle Walter And The Tiff Over Tet

by Ali Elizabeth Turner A couple of weeks ago on the Tennessee Valley Spotlight, I was discussing with my my co-hosts Tony Llewellyn and Rex Davis the fact that even though we are not “runnin’ with the Big Dogs” when it comes to being powerful members of the media, nonetheless we have what I feel is a sacred duty to do our best to be accurate and fair with all that we do, even when we are giving our opinion on the air, in print, or in social media. This is especially important when the lives of our brave warriors are on the line, as was the case during the Vietnam War. As is true with every other part of life, it is important to “let the story be the story,” even when there is good, bad, ugly or at the very least, controversial content.

February will mark the 50th anniversary of the Tet Offensive, which historians agree was the point at which the war in Vietnam bogged

down badly and began to be lost in the court of public opinion, especially on college campuses. Central to that shift away from supporting our troops was an op-ed which was aired by the venerable CBS anchorman Walter Cronkite himself. He had just made a trip to Vietnam to get the “boots on the ground” aspect of the Tet Offensive, as well as its aftermath. Ostensibly, his purpose as a veteran newsman was to get it right, and tell the truth.

ing about? Well, 50 years after the fact, a dusty piece of footage has been found of the first statement which was filmed of Cronkite’s broadcast right after the U.S. victory during Tet. What was actually broadcast later though, was the complete opposite, and even President Lyndon Johnson reportedly reacted by saying, “If I have lost Cronkite, I’ve lost middle

with the following, which was filmed on February 13 while Cronkite was still in Vietnam, and which was recently found by accident: “First and simplest, the Viet Cong suffered a military defeat,” he reported.

“Its missions proved suicidal.

If they had intended to stay in the cities as a negotiating point, they failed at that. The Vietnamese army reacted better than even its most ardent supporters had anticipated.

There were no defections from its rank, as the Viet Cong apparently had expected. And the people did not rise to support the Viet Cong, as they were also believed to have expected.”

So, which was true, why was the second piece the one we all heard, and why does it matter?

What in the world am I talk-

February 19th

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What Cronkite said on February 28, 1968, after he got back to the States was, “Tonight, back in more familiar surroundings in New York, we’d like to sum up our find-

However, that is not what happened; and I don’t think it’s irresponsible to say that Walter’s now irrefutably documented speaking-outof-both-sides-of-his-mouth resulted in slaughtering the morale of our soldiers, and perhaps insured the torture and possible death of those who were really boots on the ground, our troops.

Vietnam Veterans of America (Chapter 511)

$7

America.” The truth is that perhaps LBJ would not have “lost middle America,” and Jane Fonda would not have been able to do her worst, if the original clip had been shown.

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ings in Vietnam, an analysis that must be speculative, personal, subjective. Who won and who lost in the great Tet Offensive against the cities?

I’m not sure. The Viet Cong did not win by a knockout but neither did we.” He then advanced the narrative that now the war was at a stalemate, could not be won, that our soldiers would leave their post “not as victors, but as an honorable people who lived up to their pledge to defend democracy, and did the best they could.” What would be waiting for those “honorable people” when they got home were people like I used to be, people who thought they were not only not in any way honorable, but that they were “baby killers.”

Now contrast “Uncle Walter’s” previous statements

Perhaps Brent Bozell, founder of Media Research Center can shed the most light on the subject: “Walter Cronkite’s partisanship in his ‘news’ coverage of the Vietnam war is not just a matter of speculation. It is not just a matter of fact. It is celebrated fact by those closest to the newsman. Leslie Midgley was Cronkite’s long-time producer and in his book, How Many Words Do You Want, he recounts how he turned ‘America’s Most Trusted Newsman’ against the war and concludes they were doing ‘the true work of the Lord.’ In journalism the only thing worse than bias is the false denial of bias.

Cronkite and company were guilty of that until the bitter end.”

Clearly fake news is nothing new, and it is extraordinarily uncomfortable to face what can happen when it goes unchallenged, even if it’s 50 years later.

January 19 - February 1, 2018

The Limestone Health Facility Spotlight On Wynell Reynolds

by Ali Elizabeth Turner Mrs. Wynell Reynolds was born at home near Cross Key on February 18, 1939, “right in the middle” of two brothers and two sisters.

She graduated from West Limestone High School in 1956, and she married that same year. Her daddy was a farmer, “and we farmed with horses,” she told me.

They grew cotton and corn.

She grew up without a phone or TV, and she’ll tell you that she thinks that the greatest change in her lifetime has been the invention of both. She was on her smartphone when I came in to her room, and knows her way around Facebook I think better than I do.

Wynell and her husband Wesley first had two boys, David and Dwight. It was the early days of open-heart

surgery, and three-year-old Dwight only lived for a few days after the surgery that they hoped would close up the hole in his heart. Wynell is glad that she got to hold him, and is full of faith that she will see him again, but that’s not a loss that any parent ever gets over completely. David was 5 at the time of his brother’s passing, and she says it was “really hard on him,” as it was on the rest of the family. Several years passed, and the Reynolds decided that they wanted to add to their family, so three more sons came along—Paul, Dwayne and Preston. Wynell worked for 29 years at Clements High School, first as a teacher’s aide, then later as a library assistant.

Wynell and her family have always fellowshipped

with the Church of Christ, and her favorite scripture is Romans 8:28, which says, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” Her favorite hymn is “When We All Get To Heaven,” so we sang the chorus together: “When we all get to heaven/what a day of rejoicing that will be/When we all see Jesus/ We’ll sing and shout the victory.”

We moved on to some other favorites: Favorite color? Purple, or lilac. “Not too dark,” she said.

Favorite season? “Fall. I like spring, too, but that’s when I lost my son, so I really like fall better. I love

the colors.”

Favorite food to cook?

“Reynolds stew.” It’s a family favorite.

Favorite food to eat?

That would be her mom’s pork, gravy, and biscuits. Wynell told me the biscuits were the best she ever ate, anywhere.

Favorite authors? Grace Livingston Hill and Mary Higgins Clark.

Mrs. Reynolds is an avid reader, and loves to do word search puzzles.

She was working on a Bible word search puzzle whose theme was I Corinthians 13, most commonly known as “The Love Chapter.”

Favorite President?

Harry Truman. She was young when he was president, but she remembers him well and thinks he was the best.

January 19 - February 1, 2018

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She has been at the Limestone Health Facility for rehab three times, and raves about the care she receives and the attentiveness of the staff. She took me down to the therapy room to tell them that she was going to be in the paper, and she told me that earlier they all teased her about who her favorite was. She smiled back with, “You ALL are!”

She told me that if she ever has to be a permanent resident anywhere, this is where she wants to come.

I asked her if she had any advice for young people, and she replied, “Listen to your elders because they have been through things you haven’t. Ask them questions, and keep Christ in your life.” Those are good words no matter how old you are, from a sweet and wise woman named Wynell Reynolds.

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Calendar of Events Percy Jackson Party Jan 22nd

Athens Boys and Girls Club Celebrating 25 Years of Success Annual Banquet February 8, 2018 Beasley Center Athens Time 6:30pm Tickets $25 • 256-232-4298.

Athens-Limestone County Public Library (603 South Jefferson Street in Athens.) 5:00PM-7:00PM. Celebrating the Percy Jackson series. Tickets are $5.00 per person, pre-sale only; age 3 and under are free but require a ticket. Children ages 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Limit 100 slots.

Tickets available at the library. For more info: ​256-232-1233.

Women Empower Women Organization & Food Pantry First Saturday of Each Month

Swindell Fine Arts (103 West Washington Street in Athens).

6:00PM-9:00PM. Bring photo of what you would like to paint.

For more information: tinaswindell.com

Paint Therapy Jan 25th

Prayer • Elderly Assistance • Feed The Hungry Clothes • Scholarships • Empowering Women Volunteers Wanted & Needed Call for Details -256.233.5995 Meeting Time: First Saturday of Each Month at 1:30pm Food pantry open now. wewoa.org • E-Mail: wew5995@gmail.com

Butlers Easy Pickins (26795 U.S. Highway 72 in Athens) from 11:00AM-1:00PM. Pre-register & pre-pay required by January 20. For more information: ​256-232-7020 Email airofwhimsy@ gmail.com or visit store.

SilverSneaker™ Stability class Every Thursday

Chicken Stew Fundraiser Jan 27th

Pet Portrait Painting Jan 27th

11:30am – 12:15pm. This class will meet every Thursday at East Limestone Senior Center at 25820 Nick Davis Rd. SilverSneaker™ Stability is a group exercise class designed specifically to keep participants “safe on their feet”. This class will include standing and walking exercises that will be beneficial in decreasing the risk of falling. Chairs are encouraged for warm-up and cool-down only. Donations for the class are accepted. For additional information, call Janet at 256-614-3530 or email at jhunt9155@gmail.com.

Country Lifestyle Series Presentation: Living with Chronic Conditions Jan 20th

Ardmore Public Library (25836 Main Street in Ardmore TN) 10:00AM. This presentation will give a summary of the upcoming 6-week series (Jan 22-Mar 5) with Myra Walker from the UT Extension Service and Savannah Jenkins of the Giles County Health Department. For more information: 931-427-4883.

Don Pedi Mountain Dulcimer Workshop and Concert Jan 22nd

Athens-Limestone Visitors Center. 100 North Beaty Street in Athens. Workshop $15.00 starts at 4:30PM; Concert $10.00 starts at 6:30PM. Jam session to follow concert. Information Call or Text 256-874-1388.

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East Limestone Fire Department (15801 East Limestone Road).

Starting at 10:30AM. $20.00 per gallon, bring own container.

For more information: Belinda Kirk 256-777-2044.

Annual Optimist Pancake Breakfast Jan 27th

First Christian Church (409 West Market Street in Athens).

7:00AM-11:00AM featuring an All-you-can-eat Pancake and Sausage Breakfast for $5.00 donation. Take out available.

Benefits local children's activities. For more information: Jim Miner 256-232-7977 or mmishaps@aol.com

The State of the City Address with Mayor Ronnie Marks Jan 31st

Presented by the Greater Limestone County Chamber of Commerce at the Sandridge Student Center Ballroom (Athens State University 300 North Beaty Street in Athens). Starting at 12:00PM. Tickets required and available at tourathens.com

Main Street Athens Chocolate Walk Feb 3rd

Fall in love with Downtown Athens, AL. Ticket holders enjoy a chocolate treat, sweet deals, and a chance to win a door prize from each participating business during this prelude to Valentine's Day. Information and tickets at Eventbrite.

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January 19 - February 1, 2018

January 19 - February 1, 2018

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What Makes Ronnie Roll

Enjoy The Ride, Part 1

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

Mayor Ronnie and I met on Wednesday due to the wild and woolycoat weather, both of us scrambling to get caught up. As always, the mayor made me laugh with a tale of some kind of recent caper, and all of it played into us deciding on this article as the launch for the Enjoy The Ride series. The book is written by Steve Gilliand, whom Mayor Ronnie had heard speak at a national mayor’s conference, and its subtitle is: The True Joy Of Life Is In The Trip!

The “caper” had to do with the fact that there are thankfully a number of department heads who know how to find humor in almost any situation; the mayor had called one who actually had the authority to meet his unusual request and said, “Please

flood the streets so we can make ice for everyone to slide on.” The reply?

“Mr. Mayor, I’ll get around to it in July.” In addition, our City Attorney valiantly tried to slide down Marion Street, which is also known to old-timers as “Ice Pick Hill,” but unfortunately there wasn’t enough ice to get much traction. With all kidding aside, Mayor Ronnie shook his head in gratitude and said, “We’ve got guys out in 6 degree weather taking care of power outages.”

The utilities guys are an important part of our team of first responders, and they are the best.

well for the soon-oncoming population explosion?

In spite of the weather, the week had started out with one of the mayor’s favorite celebration days of the year -- Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday. “It is always

a great day,” he said.

“The kids’ essays were good, and this year we had artwork, too. Raven Warner won the essay contest, again.

There was the parade to the Event Center, and church at Sweet Home, which is always wonderful. It’s one of my favorite days because of the chance to fellowship, and it builds the community,” the mayor said.

Before we talked about Steve Gilliam’s book, we touched on the re-

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cent announcement of the new Toyota plant, and how it kicks up the need to plan well for future growth. Mayor Ronnie will be addressing that challenge on January 31 at the State of the City address to be held at the ASU Ballroom. The topic is “200 Years of Classic.

Southern. Character,” and the question, as it relates to quality of life, is one of balance: How do we maintain the historical essence of our city and what makes it so special, and prepare

Well, keeping a sense of humor is certainly a part of it, which is why Gilliam’s book is so timely. “Life may not be the party we hoped for, but while we’re here we should dance,” is the opening statement in the book, and the author is unknown.

He also says, “Your life’s work can be found where God’s plan intersects with your passion.” It is not at all uncommon for authors to make bookmarks as part of their give-away promotional bundles, and Gilliam’s is one of the best I’ve seen.

He takes every letter of the alphabet and assigns a word that functions as “The ABCs to enjoy the ride.” They are: appreciate, believe, care, dream, encourage, forgive, give, help, imagine, joke, kindle, listen, mentor, nurture, observe, pray, quality, read, sympathize, trust, understand, value, walk, x-pect, yearn, and zealous.” I could tell that it was time to buckle up, as this was going to be quite the ride as we travel through this book.

It was also time to pray, as the mayor had a meeting, and so we did.

Then once again, Ronnie had to roll.

January 19 - February 1, 2018

Slinkard On Success

What Are You Waiting For?

by D. A. Slinkard

D.A. Slinkard is the manager of the Athens Staples store It seems to me that January 2018 is going just as fast as the entire 2017 year, and I’m wondering when it is going to slow down. Then, I realize that time slows down for no one and we must be prepared to be victorious. Yes, victorious for 2018, as it seems the previous year was done and over with before many of us were able to achieve the hopes, dreams, and goals we thought we would have.

So, I am going to ask you, “What are you waiting for when it comes to grabbing 2018 by the horns and slowing it down?”

make this happen. Sometimes we make our goals and know the things we need to do, but put them on the back burner for later on when we have time. I am telling you from what I am already seeing in 2018, you are going to just have to do it. You are going to have to force the activities into your day. Otherwise, we are going to continue upon the same path we traveled

down last year in which we get to December and we say, “Man, we sure left a lot undone. How did that happen?” Well, it happened because we enabled it to happen. We allowed the distractions to take place, we allowed ourselves to say, “I’ll do that tomorrow,” and tomorrow was replaced with something else.

At this point the year is almost 1/12 of the way

The first few weeks of this year, I have been busy with a variation of activities from church, to work, to even just trying to stay warm. I am definitely not looking forward to the utility bill because I believe the heater has been running full blast pretty much all month. Honestly, this kind of weather makes me despise the people six months from now who will be complaining about how hot it is. There are always alternatives to every situation, and I would much prefer summer than winter any day of the year. If you are one of the people who complain about all the seasons, next time you go to say something, please just stop.

necessary steps to achieve success in 2018. It will not happen because you are not doing enough to make it happen. What will you do differently to make sure you hit the goal? What will you do differently to make sure you are your own definition of success?

We live in the land of opportunity, but some people will tell you that is a falsehood. Anyone who suggests you should give up on your hopes and dreams, just know that they are a person who has already given up on theirs. These are not the kind of people you should be wanting to take advice from because they will lie to you about other things. I personally think you should brainstorm about all the things you want in life, picture the career you would want, the house you would want to live in, and then think about how you can achieve that success. Sadly though, too many of us know what we want, but we become too lazy when it comes to the thinking part of the how to get it.

There are people every day who know what they want, and they take the time to think about how they are going to do it. We have these very people in Athens, Alabama, but many of us lie to ourselves and say that could not happen to me. This way of thinking must change for you to have an impact in 2018 and realize that just because someone else cannot do something, it does not mean that you cannot.

What are you waiting for?

We are all busy in our lives, but we must make the decision to control our year. We have an idea of the goals and activities we want to complete, so now we need to map out the game plan as to what we are actually going to do to

January 19 - February 1, 2018

through as we draw closer and closer to February. My question for you is how close are you today to your goal versus where you were on the 1st of January? This can be a tough question, but it can also be a revealing question to help see how positive or negative your year is going. If you are in the same position at the beginning of the year, then you are not taking the

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Tourism

North Pole Stroll Thanks The Community

by Teresa Todd, TMP President, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association

The 3rd Annual North Pole Stroll was an amazing success this past December 2017, in Big Springs Memorial Park.

With a record number of children and parents coming to visit Santa, and the guests visiting the park daily, attendance easily reached over 10,000 for the 30 days of festivities.

I would like to take the time to thank our sponsors, community organizations, and decorators for their time and energy that made this annual event a “Holiday Hallmark” event for our community.

The event wouldn’t be possible without the efforts from Ben Wiley and the City Parks and

Recreation staff preparing the park with the beautiful Frazer firs; Mr. Kerr and Ms. Calvert from Lowes of Athens who secured the 52 seven-foottall trees, which made this year’s Stroll even better than the ones in the past; and for everyone’s special efforts, I greatly thank you all!

Santa, as always, was amazing! His kind-hearted patience and caring demeanor, listening to each and every child and adult who had a wish list for him, was fantastic.

Lynne Hart and volunteers of Keep AthensLimestone Beautiful with their exhibit the “Tired Family” was the place to snap a selfie or take a group photo to remember

your experience for the holidays.

The Athens-Limestone County Tourism staff, Cayce Hutchins, Andrea Turner, and Teresa Todd, are all very proud to bring this event to our community each year and look forward to making it happen again in 2018 with a Bicentennial flair.

Thank you to these Tree Sponsors & Decorators: Medical Massage Therapy; City of Athens Utilities and Relay for Life; Athens First United Methodist; First Presbyterian Church of Athens "on the Square"; Dr. Griggs Orthodontics; Limestone County Master Gardeners; Optimist Club of Athens; Dealer Auto Auction; Friends of Athens Limestone Animal Shelter; First Baptist Church Mission Group; Martin & Hubbs Inc.;

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Welleswood Venue Inc.; Brown & Brown Accountants; Limestone Health Facility and Athens Dulcimer Group; Athens News Courier and Girl Scout Troop 1922; Southeast Quality Refrigeration; Great Oaks Management and the Limestone Lodge Assisted Living; EFI Automotive; Athens Lions Club; Fowler Auction & Real Estate and Athens Main Street; Innovative Realty Solution, LLC; Lowes of Athens; Maria A. Taylor - Learn to Read Council of Athens & Limestone County Inc.; Alabama Veterans Museum and Archives and Volunteers; Boy Scouts of America Arrowhead District; Karen Sticker - In Memory of Korry Young; The Valley Star; Chickfil-A of Athens; The J.T. Ray Company; Brody Jackson - State Farm Ins.; the Family of Richard and Mabel Gooch; Cour-

tesy First Home Lenders and Athens Arts League; First National Bank; Athens-Limestone Hospital Department of Radiology; Wee Wisdom's Little Red School; Hospice of Limestone County; Innovative Health Solutions; Redstone Federal Credit Union; Southern Home Realty of North Alabama; Defensive Applications and Behind the Badge; Capt. Thomas H Hobbs Camp 768, Sons of Confederate Veterans; Traditions of Athens; Kindred Hospice; Alabama Real Estate Solutions; Athens Limestone Community Association; Jimmy Smith - Buick – GMC; Smith INFINITI of Huntsville; Recentered; Athens Dental Associates; Greater Chamber of Commerce L.E.A.D program; and the Huntsville International Airport.

January 19 - February 1, 2018

PlayAction Sports

New Year, New Opportunities for Local Athletes

by Tim Lambert

Tune in for the PlayAction Sports Update, three times each weekday on 1080 AM WKAC. Visit us online at www.pasnetwork.net!

email: playactionsports@hotmail.com The new year began with more scholarship signings for local athletes.

James Clemens’ Amy Haddock will be continuing her playing career as part of the UAH lacrosse team. Athens High’s Kobe Melton signed a swimming scholarship with Arkansas, while another Golden Eagle-Alexis Woods--will go on to play basketball at UAH. East Limestone’s Kaleigh Tribble inked a softball pact with Columbia State.

Calhoun Community College announced the signing of eight high school seniors to join the Lady Warhawks’ softball team during the 2018 fall semester. The list included James Clemens middle infielder Aubrey Little. She was joined

by Mattie Kerr (outfield, Hamilton High School), Hailey Olsen (third base/pitcher, American Christian Academy), Rayna Melton (catcher, Wilson High School), Alex Green (outfield, Northside High SchoolNorthport, AL), Savanna Uhlman (pitcher, Muscle Shoals High School), Jenesis Morgan (first base, Fultondale High School) and Anna Kate Jones (outfield, Florence High School).

Local athletes made it on to All-State football teams. In Class 7A, James Clemens' Daevion Davis was named to first team defense while teammate Zach Hopkins made honorable mention. Perry Kirby of Ath-

ens was 6A second team defense while honorable mention went to teammate Kannon Biggs.

Davis was also named as a finalist for Class

en Eagles beat Tanner.

The Athens girls smothered Haleyville and got

by Florence. Both teams notched wins against West Limestone.

dison and both teams squeaked out wins against Waterloo.

Tanner - the Rattlers downed Lexington and Sheffield, while the girls came out on top against Clements.

West Limestone - boys’ and girls’ teams both topped Tanner and Elkmont; the Wildcats held off East Limestone.

2018 Calhoun softball recruits 7A Lineman of the Year.

The winner will be announced at the Player of the Year Luncheon in Montgomery on January 30.

The latest boys’ basketball rankings had West Limestone eighth in Class 4A and Lindsay Lane in fifth in 1A; on the girls’ side, James Clemens was at the fifth spot in Class 7A and Tanner sat at number nine in 2A. Local highlights (by school) since our last column: Ardmore - the Tigers overwhelmed West Morgan while the girls got a win over rival Elkmont.

Athens Bible School the Trojans defeated then sixth-ranked Whitesburg Christian along with their second meeting with Elkmont.

Athens High - the Gold-

January 19 - February 1, 2018

The Limestone County basketball tournament will be hosted by Elkmont High School this year. Middle school action will begin the pro-

face off at 1:30 p.m., the Elkmont and West Limestone boys at 2:45 p.m. and the East Limestone and Clements JV boys at 4 p.m. Varsity games will tip off on January 22 at 6:30 p.m. as the West Limestone girls take on Ardmore and the Elkmont and Tanner boys play at 8 p.m. Listen online at www.pasnetwork. net or on the PlayAction Sports app for the varsity finals Saturday, January 27 at 5 p.m.

Odds and ends: The Athens Recreation Center is having youth spring baseball registration going on through February 10, and spring softball registration through Clements - Colt February 15, for teams swept ages 5 through 12.

East Lawrence, Fee is $70. For the boys got more information, past Tanner; the call 256-233-8740. girls turned back Ongoing offerings Russellville and by the center inLawrence Counclude karate classes ty. on Mondays, TuesEast Limestone Tanner's Nahriyah Timmons struggles days and Thursdays for possession against Hatton - the Lady Indi(Photo credit--Dean Baucom) at 6:30 p.m.; Zumba ans posted big classes on Mondays wins over Brooks ceedings on Saturday, and Thursdays at 5:30 and Central-Florence January 20, at 11 a.m. p.m., Saturdays at 9 a.m. along with victories over with the Ardmore and and Sundays at 2:30 West Morgan, Winfield Clements girls, fol- p.m.; and Super Circuit and West Limestone. lowed by the Tigers and on Tuesdays and ThursJames Clemens - the Colts at 12:15 p.m.; af- days at 8:30 a.m. and Jets recorded victories ter that, the Tanner and Wednesdays at 7 p.m. over Westminster and East Limestone girls and 8:30 p.m. an upset over top-ranked Huffman. The Lady Jets blistered Columbia; both teams won their cross-town rivalry games with Bob Jones.

Lindsay Lane - the Lions knocked off Ad-

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Clean and Green

Adopt-A-Spot Program Rewards Our Community Twice

by Lynne Hart Executive Coordinator - Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful

I would like to take this opportunity to introduce you to a few of our outstanding Adopt-A-Spot volunteers and the organizations that have financially benefited from their volunteerism.

First, let me explain how the Adopt-A-Spot program works. KALB invites Individuals, citizen groups, and organizations to adopt a designated Adopt-A-Spot location to perform cleanups monthly, or as often as possible. After every 3rd cleanup, with a maximum of one reward per quarter, a $50 check is written to the adopting or designated organization. The receiving organization can potentially receive a total of $200 per year.

KALB is grateful to the City of Athens for helping to fund this program through their annual appropriation.

Our city benefits from the removal of unsightly and dangerous litter AND a local organization receives funds that help give back to the community again!

SPOTLIGHT: INDIVIDUAL Mr. Barry Phillips is faithful in his commitment to picking up two Adopt-A-Spot locations.

The first is Forrest St. from Hwy. 31 to Jefferson St., and the second is Jefferson St. from Hwy. 72 to the Square. You can spot Mr. Phillips easily in his yellow safety vest

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more considerate of the community.”

Scoutmaster Miller said this service has been a great teaching tool. According to Miller, the funds received over the years from this program have allowed the troop to invest in the future of the scouts’ lives by allowing them to go camping, support service projects, purchase equipment, and supplement scout expenses so more boys can take part in scouting activities.

Boy Scout Troop 24 has participated in the Adopt-A-Spot program continuously since 2007

A SPOT FOR YOU using the supplies provided by KALB as he picks up litter along his chosen routes.

“I have been doing a couple of Adopt-A-Spot streets for a few years now and have gotten to where they are MY streets,” said Phillips. “I find myself getting upset at people who trash MY streets.

Even when it’s not time to pick up trash, I’m looking for litter and planning my next pickup time.”

Mr. Phillips has chosen the Athens-Limestone Public Library as one of his designated non-profit organizations to receive his reward checks. “There is also an organization that profits from my work,” said Phillips.

“I hear from them periodically, and I realize how important even a small gift is to them. It benefits both me as the giver and the community as the receiver.”

Paula Laurita, Director of the Athens-Limestone

Public Library appreciates the donations received due to Mr. Phillips’ work. “The donations received through the KALB Adopt-A-Spot program have benefited everyone in the community,” said Laurita.

“Mr. Phillips’ work supports literacy for all ages. ‘We Both Read’ books have been purchased with the reward funds for adults and children to share together.

The best way to improve reading skills is for children to enjoy reading. By using the Adopt-A-Spot donations for these books, we are putting books in children’s hands.”

Reward checks go directly back to Troop #24, since they qualify as a non-profit within Limestone County. Scoutmaster Van Miller appreciates the opportunity for his troop to provide service to the community, and for them to learn through action the foundations of the Boy Scouts of America.

“Being a good steward of the environment is one of those foundations, as well as being a good citizen,” said Miller. “The boys have commented many times on how much litter has been thrown along the road, and they question why people are not

KALB has several spots available for adoption.

I would be pleased to share more information and answer any questions you may have about adopting a spot in the City of Athens. The Adopt-A-Spot program benefits our community twice! It does not get much better than that!

Citizens may also adopt areas outside of the city; however, there are currently no reward monies available for county locations.

Call, email, or just stop in…I’m anxious to hear from you!

SPOTLIGHT: ORGANIZATION The organization that has been continuously volunteering in the AdoptA-Spot program is Boy Scout Troop #24. This troop adopted Lucas Ferry Rd. in 2007 and has been faithfully picking up trash along that road ever since.

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Become a Fan

(256) 233-8728 KALBCares@gmail.com www.KALBCares.com January 19 - February 1, 2018

Cooking with Anna

Winter Cranberry Bread

by Anna Hamilton

This week in Alabama, we got to experience our own little winter wonderland. Now, to someone who lives in the beautiful northern part of the country they would never consider our measly inch of snow a winter wonderland, but to this Alabama girl who loves snow, I’ll take whatever I can get. On these cold, snowy mornings, my mind is flooded with memories on my granny making her Winter Cranberry Bread. This bread is sweet, but not too sweet, so it’s perfect for a breakfast bread or just an afternoon snack.

My granny never used a hand mixer to stir this lovely bread together. “All you need is a bowl and a wooden spoon” she would say. Her recipe would change, depending on what she had in the cabinet at the time. During our Southern blizzards, everything shuts down, so she couldn’t just run down to the local Piggly Wiggly and purchase the exact ingredients to make the bread.

If she didn’t have cranberries she would use this same recipe but

substitute the fruit. Apples or pears with the addition of a little cinnamon is wonderful.

On your next snow day, take the time to go into the kitchen with your loved ones and make this lovely loaf of bread. I encourage you to cook with your loved ones. The memories I have of being in the kitchen with my grandparents and parents are ones that I cherish. I love cooking with my nieces and nephews and hope that when they are my age, they will look back on our time in the kitchen together as fondly as I look back on mine.

Winter Cranberry Bread What You Need:

2 ½ cup All-purpose flour 1 cup sugar ¼ tsp salt 1 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking soda 2 Tbsp. grated orange rind 1 ½ cup fresh whole cranberries (or frozen, thawed) 1 cup chopped pecans 2 eggs, beaten ¾ cup vegetable oil 1 cup buttermilk January 19 - February 1, 2018

Directions:

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix together all ingredients until well blended. Pour in to greased pans.

• If using a Bundt Pan, bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the bread comes out clean.

• If using loaf pans, bake for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the bread comes out clean.

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January 19 - February 1, 2018

Cover Story

The Boys And Girls Club: Helping Athens Kids For 25 Years

by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

in 1993, so that’s when some of the founders--Glenn and Martha Blackwell and Susan Parker-- consider the Club to have been conceived, and the Athens chartered Boys and Girls Club opened up in May of 1994. Glenn had been a part of the Decatur Club as a child, and he knew from firsthand experience the difference it had made in shaping him for success as an adult.

Suzanne Rainey Thompson heard Susan Parker speak, and she knew she wanted to be a part of the ground-floor effort to establish a charter.

She was there at the old Athens Elementary School gym to help sign up those first 100 kids, and to this day remembers every one of them. She also was in charge of arts that first summer, a most important part of a kid’s development that is all too often ignored these days. At the time, Suzanne was just completing her degree in education from Athens State University, and this became her career instead. In order to become an officially recognized club, the national organization requires 100 members to start, and the Athens club got chartered in time to offer summertime services to kids who were out of school.

Suzanne has worn many hats during her time with the club. From 1994-1998,

she was the Education Director for the Athens Club. She was Unit Director of Boys and Girls Club Athens-Limestone County from 1998-2000, and Executive Director beginning in 2000. During that time, clubs opened in Ardmore as well as Tanner, and now they are all merged with the Huntsville Clubs and have been renamed Boys and Girls Club of North Alabama (BGCNAL).

Suzanne is now the vice-president of the re-organized group, and she is quick to say that she loves her new position, but sorely misses working face-toface with the kids.

I asked Suzanne to tell me about some of the kids from the early days, and she said wistfully, “There has been great success, and some heartbreak.

April Houston Collins was a young single mom as a teen, and went on to get her bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate

January 19 - February 1, 2018

degrees, become a lawyer for HUD, married a Birmingham man who is a school principal, has four kids, and has started her own successful law firm,” she said. “Wow!” I replied.

“Then there is Marcus Stanley,” said Suzanne. “He’s deployed, he is a true artist, he is Mass Communications Specialist for the United States Navy, and his wife is one of the charter members as well,” she added. “Greg Hacker is currently serving as First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, and British Malone is serving ABH3 in the U.S. Navy. I am so very grateful and thankful for their service, and it makes me very proud for their leadership and commitment.” The heartbreak, it turns out, came about in the form of a promising young man getting shot to death in a restaurant, along with some others. “It still hurts,” she told me.

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Other successes have been David Williams, who is a barber here in Athens, and Stephen Harris, who is in real estate.

They collaborated on producing some rap music which was sold to a label. “All in all over the years I would guess we have helped around 2500 kids,” said Suzanne. They have ranged in age from 5-18.

I asked Suzanne why I should choose the Boys and Girls Club as a place to send a child, and she replied, “We have a proven track record for helping kids, and we provide fun with a purpose. Kids learn leadership skills, the arts, sports, and we offer all kinds of handson learning. We have our own facility, which is important, and are a safe place for kids to be after school. We work to truly change lives, help them grow, and we have a vision for the future. Kids have needs today that weren’t

the case when we first started,” she said. For this year’s fund-raising dinner, the focus is on getting a fulltime STEM lab as well as teacher-director, she said. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math, and that is an area where kids all across the nation need a boost.

Other financial needs include the fact that the school calendar is changing, and kids are going to need to have access to BGCNAL until August 30 when they go back for fall term. If investing in the future of our children through the Boys and Girls Club is something you want to be a part of, then please consider sponsoring a table for $325, or get individual tickets for $25 each by calling Minnie Leonard at 256-232-4298. You can also go to www.bgcnal.com for more information. Dress for the event is business casual.

See you on February 8!

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Health and Fitness

Flexibility Exercise

by Janet Hunt

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

Flexibility exercises are stretching exercises for the purpose of increasing your range of motion around a joint.

Before stretching, a warm-up should be performed at a low intensity for 5-10 minutes. This increases the temperature of the muscles and decreases the risk of injury. Flexibility training is best performed when the body is very warm.

Many people will do stretching exercises following cardiovascular endurance training; and most fitness classes finish with a short stretching session. Classes focused on flexibility only, may be held in a warmer

environment.

Flexibility exercises can increase the range of motion throughout a joint.

Increased range of motion can improve mobility in sporting events, balance, and everyday activities. Proper range of motion assists in correct posture by lengthening tight muscles that pull areas of the body away from correct positions. For example, we spend so much time at our computers, reading, driving, etc. that many of us have tight chest muscles which pull our shoulders and head forward leaving us with a hunched shoulder look which affects our breathing, as well as

causes pain in our upper back, arms, and to our fingers. Stretching can also calm our mind, provide a mental break, and give our bodies a chance to recharge.

When stretching or performing flexibility exercises, strive for symmetry. Focus on having equal flexibility side to side. Flexibility that is not equal on both sides may be a risk factor for injury. When stretching, focus on major muscle groups such as calves, thighs, hips, lower back, neck and shoulders, and any other muscles you routinely use. Never bounce. Stretch in a smooth movement; and hold your stretch for about 30 seconds while breathing normally.

While stretching, you may feel tension, but not pain.

Stretch regularly at least 2 or 3 times a week on a regular basis. If you want more, bring movement into stretching with tai chi or yoga.

For more information on stretching or flexibility classes, talk to a personal trainer or check the schedule at your local gym. If you choose to take flexibility classes or yoga, remember to work at your own pace, and do only what is comfortable for you. Flexibility classes and yoga are like other fitness classes, they have different levels so you may need to try a couple of classes to find the best fit for you.

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January 19 - February 1, 2018

Cover Story

Limestone County – Remembering The Old And Celebrating The New

by Michelle Williamson - Limestone County Community Relations Coordinator Commission and the Limestone County Bicentennial Committee would like to invite the public to a Bicentennial Celebration on Tuesday, February 6, 2018, 5-8 p.m., at the Limestone County Event Center. This celebration will include a free concert by area musicians, historic scenes of Limestone County, special exhibits, contents of a 1993 time capsule that was discovered during the recent renovation of the Limestone County Courthouse, and much more.

continued from page 1

downtown Athens quickly became the “house of our people.” In March of 1976, once again, the citizens came together to welcome the renovations to the Courthouse that included, just to name a few, the installation of the building’s first elevator, a central heating and air conditioning system, and a second courtroom. The strong and resilient symbol that the Courthouse has displayed throughout the years derives from our people who have walked the hallways inside this beautiful building.

On February 6, 2018, Limestone County will celebrate its 200th birthday.

On Wednesday, January 10, 2018, the citizens of the county were presented with an early bicentennial gift that will change our future. This gift was the announcement of the $1.6 billion Toyota-Mazda plant to be built in the county that will initially bring 4,000 new jobs to the area. “This is a multigenerational gift for our community,” stated Limestone County Com-

mission Chairman Mark Yarbrough. “It comes as no surprise that a large part of the decision making came down to our people.”

As the citizens of the county celebrate the old by blowing out the candles for their Bicentennial, they will also celebrate the new opportunities that have been given to them. While agriculture has been prominent in the county for hundreds of years, the County welcomes the addition of our industrial family.

The Limestone County

January 19 - February 1, 2018

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Learning As A Lifestyle

New Classes At The Center For Life-Long Learning

by Wanda Campbell

Center for Lifelong Learning - 121 South Marion Street, Athens, AL 35611 - 256-233-8262 It is the 21st Century and we are transitioning from the great Industrial Age to the Age of Knowledge (Nine Shift: Work, Life, and Education in the 21st Century,

by William Draves and Julie Coates). Today many are carrying the internet in their pockets and conducting every aspect of their lives on the smart phone. About nine million have had their identity stolen or business networks hacked.

A few weeks ago (Oct 13, 2017) the headline on WHNT-TV “Cyber Security is a booming business and people are needed to fill positions” was posted by Aaron Cantrell. In that posting, Cantrell quoted Carey Pool, ISSA North Alabama Chapter President saying, "There's a huge gap in the current industry for people who understand computers, how to secure them, how to configure them."

PeopleSec CEO Joshua Crumbaugh said that he thinks everyone should go through a cybersecurity class so they can be better educated on the

matter.

At the Center for Lifelong Learning, we will be offering two classes on cybersecurity this semester. The first is an introductory class so that managers and the general public can learn the basics of threats, vulnerabilities, and attacks.

Threats and Vulnerabilities in Cyberspace is offered Friday, April 20, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the CyberProtex Training Center in Madison. For more information about this class, call

us at 256-233-8262 or go on the website www. athens.edu/CLL for more information.

The second class covers the essentials of understanding best practices in network security and risk management. This comprehensive exam preparation course will prepare the participant to take the Security+ exam. This is a foundational course and six months to one year of experience is recommended. CompTIA Security + 5-day Exam Prep Boot Camp will be offered Monday, March 5-Friday, March 9, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the CyberProtex Training Center in Madison.

The learning starts early in this Age of Knowledge. “A study by scientists at the University of Washington’s Institute for Learning & Brain

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Sciences (I-LABS) shows that a series of play sessions with music improved 9-month-old babies’ brain processing of both music and new speech sounds.” (News release from University of Washington by Molly McElroy, April 15, 2016.)

Molly McElroy quoted lead author of the study Christina Zhao, a postdoctoral researcher at I-Labs, as saying, “Our study is the first in young babies to suggest that experiencing a rhythmic pattern in music can also improve the ability to detect and make predictions about rhythmic patterns in speech.”

The article also quoted co-author Patricia Kuhl as saying, “Infants experience a complex world in which sounds, lights, and sensations vary constantly. The baby’s job is to recognize

the patterns of activity and predict what’s going to happen next.

Pattern perception is an important cognitive skill, and improving that ability early may have long-lasting effects on learning.”

If you are looking for a program to encourage learning in your babies or toddlers, the Center will be offering MusikGarten classes starting March 7. Family Music for Babies and Toddlers is scheduled for eight weeks on Wednesdays, March 7-April 4. Class is scheduled from 9:00 a.m.-9:30 a.m. at the Center.

Suncatchers for 3-5 years olds is scheduled Wednesday, March 7-April 4 from 10:00 a.m.-10:45 a.m.

Call us at 256-2338262 or check out all of our classes on the website – www.athens. edu/CLL.

January 19 - February 1, 2018

The View From The Bridge

Remembering The Words Of Martin Luther King, JR. Jackie Warner

Career Development Facilitator “Impact, Engage, Grow” Community Matters

by Jackie Warner

“The Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday celebrates the life and legacy of a man who brought hope and healing to America.

We commemorate as well the timeless values he taught us through his example — the values of courage, truth, justice, compassion, dignity, humility and service that so radiantly defined Dr. King’s character and empowered his leadership.”

- Coretta Scott King Martin Luther King Jr. was born in Atlanta,

Georgia, on January 15, 1929. He was a pivotal advocate for African Americans during the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. On April 4, 1968, King was shot and killed while in Memphis, Tennessee.

We remember his words of wisdom and teachings for our human race’s development and growth: 1.“Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that.”

Sermons from his book Strength to Love, 1963 2.“The true neighbor will risk his position, his prestige and even his life for the welfare of others.” Strength to Love,

January 19 - February 1, 2018

1963 3.“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.” “Letter from Birmingham Jail,” 1963 4.“Nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity.”

Strength to Love, 1963 5.“I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word in reality. That is why right, temporarily defeated, is stronger than evil triumphant.” Nobel Peace

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Prize acceptance speech, 1964 6.“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”

Strength to Love, 1963 7.“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” “I Have a Dream” speech, 1963 8.“Hatred paralyzes life; love releases it. Hatred confuses life; love harmonizes it. Hatred darkens life; love illuminates it.” Strength to Love, 1963 9.“True peace is not merely the absence of

tension: it is the presence of justice.” “Letter from Birmingham City Jail,” 1963 10.“Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed.” “Letter from Birmingham City Jail,” 1963 Until Next Time, Be Sincere, Kind and Intentional Jackie Warner, Community Outreach Specialist Email: thebridge.us@gmail.com Check out upcoming events: http://thebridgeus.yolasite.com/

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Horse Whispering

Frozen

by Deb Kitchenmaster UFFDA! Uffda is a Norwegian slang word expressing surprise.

(Note: I did not learn this word from President Trump). What a surprise!--the drop in temperature, and having our fields covered in white--and it’s not cotton. I want to talk to you about the needs of your horse in these cold temps.

To ease the transition into winter, horses should be properly dewormed (i.e. based on fecal analysis and in good body condition).

Check out www.corralconnections.com, and you will see on the right hand side of the page, “Natural Solutions” for people, pets, and hors-

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es. When you click on it, it will take you to Dr. Dan Moore, DVM. Under “Horses” you will see WORM CHECK EXAM for $12.00. All the information is there explaining how much fecal matter to collect and the address of the lab to send it to. This clinic has been wonderful to work with. The results will be emailed to you. At this point you will know if your horse needs to be wormed or not. Dr. Dan has WORM CHECK, an all natural herbal paste formula that can be used on any horse, any age. I want to encourage you not to de-worm a horse if the horse doesn’t need it, but be sure to de-worm when necessary. When

we get into the mind-set of worming every 3 to 4 months as a routine or habit, we could be missing one important factor -- the individual horse itself.

Horses, given the opportunity to acclimate to cold temperatures, often prefer and are better off being outdoors.

Winter feed (hay and grain) contain less that 15% moisture, compared to pasture grazing which is between 60% and 80% moisture; therefore, water consumption is vital.

A thousand pound horse requires a minimum of 10 to 12 gallons of water each day. During winter months water should be kept between 45⁰ to 65⁰ F. Adult horses should consume one to two ounces of salt per day.

Consider feeding loose salt instead of block salt, as horses may not want to lick cold salt blocks during winter months. A couple of complications from inadequate water consumption during cold weather are (a) decreased feed intake, and (b) impaction colic.

Horses will consume less feed if not drinking enough water, and less energy creates challenges for horses in cold temperatures. Energy needs for a horse at maintenance increase about 1% for each degree below 18⁰ F. If the temperature is 0⁰ F, a 1000 pound idle, adult horse would need approximately 2 additional pounds of forage daily. It is in the horse’s best interest to provide extra forage rather than increase grain.

More

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heat is produced from the microbial fermentation of forage. Fecal contents must maintain adequate moisture levels in order to be healthy.

A horse will not develop impaction in one day, but will after several days or weeks of inadequate water consumption.

Your horse’s hooves generally grow more slowly in the winter.

However, your horse should be trimmed every 6 to 12 weeks. Our farrier comes every 8 weeks for our horses, and was just here. Two horses needed all four hooves trimmed, one did not need any trimming at all, and the other two horses needed only their front hooves trimmed. The trimming or the shoeing depends on each horse and the amount of hoof they grow. You are blessed when you have a farrier that will serve each horse at their point of need, and I am so grateful our horses have the farrier we have to care for them.

Just like a chiropractor can either help you or hurt you, so it is with the farrier you have for your horse.

Wrapping this up in a warm insulated blanket…during winter months…

•De-worm your horse based on fecal analysis •Provide plenty of clean warmed water (45⁰ to 65⁰ F)

twelve weeks May the crunching sound your horse makes as he enjoys the forage you have placed before him warm your heart, fingers and toes.

Your NEIGHbor, Deb Kitchenmaster Corral Connections •Feed additional hay durwww.corralconnections.com ing extreme cold 256-426-7947 •Feed loose salt every Animal B.E.S.T. practitioner day dkitchenmaster@mchsi.com •Hoof care every six to

January 19 - February 1, 2018

Mental Health Minute

E Is For EFT

by Lisa Philippart, Licensed Professional Counselor As a counselor, I make an attempt to be familiar with many forms of therapies.

The more tools I have in my toolbox, the better chance I have of matching helpful techniques to the individual. So, today I would like to introduce you to an amazing healing technique that is easy to learn and can have profound effects.

EFT, or Emotional Freedom Techniques, is based on the belief that the cause of all negative emotions is a disruption in the body’s energy system. EFT works by tapping with the fingertips on various body locations.

The tapping works to balance energy points, which become disrupted when the client thinks about or experiences an emotionally disturbing event. The memory stays the same, but the charge is gone. The proponents of EFT believe that a negative emotion is caused by a distressing memory creating a disruption in the body’s energy system, which then produces a negative emotion.

you will either rub the lymphatic drainage point or tap the “karate chop point,” while saying your set-up phrase out loud three times.

The set-up phrase is a description of your issue in this format - “Even though (problem), I deeply and completely accept myself.”

3. The Gamut Point: The gamut point is located on the back of the hand between the knuckle of the ring and little finger. Tapping continuously on this point engages the two hemispheres of the brain and sets your system to working on the problem.

2. The Sequence: While holding the problem in mind, you’ll tap 7 times in succession on each of the meridian points, and at each point, you’ll repeat a shortened reminder phrase of the problem.

5. Adjustment Rounds: If you do not achieve complete relief in a single round, you can repeat the process, adjusting as follows - “Even though I still have some of this (problem) I deeply and completely accept myself.”

4. The Sequence (again)

At the end of the process, scale the problem again.

Has its intensity reduced?

For EFT to be effective, you have to learn the correct location of the tapping points. Rather than describe them here, I recommend doing a search for EFT tapping points’ diagrams. Try to keep in mind that your issues are like puzzles. A problem may have many different aspects attached to it. So in some cases, collapsing just a few of these pieces can resolve the entire problem, by discovering the

core issue.

The information on EFT is extensive, but I hope I have piqued your interest to further explore this technique on your own.

Until next time…Lisa Lisa Philippart is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who divides her time between her own private practice in Huntsville and providing personal counseling services at Athens State University.

EFT is sometimes referred to as EEFT because it is a meridian energy therapy, like acupuncture. But instead of needles, we stimulate the major energy points by tapping on them. Tapping then sends kinetic energy through the energy system, clearing blockages, and allowing energy to flow again, removing negative emotions. To begin, take a rating of the intensity of your distress on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being extreme distress. Now let’s take a look at the process in 5 stages: 1. The Set Up: In this stage,

January 19 - February 1, 2018

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Medical Update

Renewing The Body’s Cellular Communication System

by Dr. John Boyle, D.C. The adult human body is made up of about 37 trillion cells. WOW, that’s a lot of cells! In fact, if you lined up all the cells in a human body end-toend, you could actually circle the earth more than 2 times.

Cells communicate by sending and receiving signals.

Signals may come from the environment, or they may come from other cells. In order to trigger a response, these signals must be transmitted across the cell membrane.

Sometimes the signal itself can cross the membrane. Other times the signal works by interacting with receptor proteins that contact both the outside and inside of the cell. In this case, only

cells that have the correct receptors on their surfaces will respond to the signal.

According to an article on www.redoxsignaling.com

by Dr. Peter Proctor, “redox signaling is the concept that electron-transfer processes play a key messenger role in biological systems.” This “redox signal” determines damage extent. Our cells are constantly under attack from bacteria, pollution, pesticides, chemicals, and even aging. Cells must be able to send a signal to communicate. Problems get worse when cellular communication goes wrong and the result is disease. In fact, most diseases involve at least one breakdown in cell communication.

For example, let’s look at diabetes. According to the University of Utah’s Health Sciences Department, “The food that you eat is broken down into sugar, which enters the blood stream. Normally, cells in the pancreas release a signal, called insulin, that tells your liver, muscle and fat cells to store this sugar for later use. In type I diabetes, the pancreatic cells that produce insulin are lost. Consequently, the insulin signal is also lost.

As a result, sugar accumulates to toxic levels in the blood. Without treatment, diabetes can lead to kidney failure, blindness and heart disease in later life.

Type I and type II diabetes have very similar symptoms, but they have differ-

ent causes. While people who have type I diabetes are unable to produce the insulin signal, those with type II diabetes do produce insulin. However, the cells of type II diabetics have lost the ability to respond to insulin. The end result is the same: blood sugar levels become dangerously high.” (http://learn.genetics.utah.edu/content/cells/ badcom) When communication is restored, the problems can be solved and health improves. It is actually quite simple. Redox signaling is universal to every function and system in your body and naturally created within every cell. As we age, our cells make fewer and fewer of these molecules, and the body’s ability to

combat everyday ments decreases.

ail-

To meet this challenge, a number of physicians and researchers have been collaborating to see if there is a viable way to assist the body in restoring its own cellular communication system. More than sixteen years ago, a group of medical professionals, engineers, and researchers discovered a proprietary method for creating Redox Signaling molecules native to the human body, and have recently made it available to consumers. Hazel Green Chiropractic Clinic has added ASEA and RENU 28 to its line of services and products that we believe will improve the quality of life and health for our patients, in combination with chiropractic treatment.

We have found these products to be invaluable in strengthening our immune systems, fighting disease, and the effects of aging. It’s even proving to be remarkable for naturally enhancing stamina and decreasing recovery time for athletes of all types.

ASEA and RENU 28 are now available through Dr. John Boyle at Hazel Green Chiropractic.

If you are interested in receiving more information on how regular chiropractic care in combination with ASEA and RENEW 28 can take your health and quality of life to the next level, contact us at Hazelgreenchiropractic@ yahoo.com or simply text your email address to 256-503-2276.

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Foreman’s Forum

Three Deadly Sins Of Handling A Gun

by Paul Foreman

“Guns are only dangerous when handled by dangerous people.”

Some of you may have seen the YouTube video of the police officer giving a Gun Safety demonstration to a class of students. The officer is dressed like he is a member of a “Special Response Team” or SWAT. Usually, these officers are specially trained for very high risk situations and are also highly trained in gun safety, as I am sure this officer was.

BUT… he gets way to COMFORTABLE, COMPLACENT and CARELESS with his gun which he probably “thought” he had already unloaded.

There he is standing in front of a room full of students talking about of all things, GUN SAFETY. He actually makes the statement, “I am the only one in this room, professional enough that I know of, who carries a Glock 40.”

The gun is pointed up at the ceiling, but then he lowers the gun toward the floor and points it right at his upper leg. Then we hear the loud “BANG!” He has just shot himself. This incident could have been even worse, but, thank goodness, the officer is the only person injured. He clumsily explains that an “accident” like this could happen to anyone and that no one should ever play with guns. I have given hundreds of demonstrations of gun safety, but, thank goodness, NOT like the one in the video.

It’s imperative that we follow safety rules thoroughly, all the time. Yes, if you are wondering if you read that right, this man shot himself in the leg in front of a room full of students…while giving a gun-safety lecture. I don’t know what was going on in this gentleman’s mind when he passed the muzzle over his leg and pressed the trigger, but I do know that his actions demonstrate

why we must follow gun safety rules all the time, always. Even better, use a red or blue plastic “TRAINING” gun, especially when demonstrating gun safety to a group of people.

Comfortable: The word comfortable can be helpful up to a point. It’s fantastic when someone can manipulate a firearm with the ease of skill, experience, and training. And it’s great when someone knows and understands firearms enough that he or she feels normal and secure. But the “comfortable” attitude we need to be aware of (and concerned with) is when the respect for firearms is gone or when the healthy fear of guns is no longer there.

In my opinion, we should never be too comfortable around guns. When we are comfortable, we often get relaxed, and when we get too relaxed, we can become lazy. This poor guy was just way too comfortable with his gun.

I am sure he had probably spent years handing that gun and others, and that is the problem. He was so used to handling his gun that he became way too comfortable with it. A gun becomes DANGEROUS, only when used by someone who fails to always be aware of the gun and its potential for becoming dangerous when handled improperly. It’s great to be confident and familiar with your gun, but not comfortable.

Complacent: This, I believe occurs when people, such as police officers, think they know so much about guns (because they’ve worked with them for so long) that they don’t really feel they need to think about it very much anymore, or at all.

This is a dangerous pride that can swell and spread, quickly smothering safety and caution. And for this reason, complacency needs to be addressed and extinguished as quickly as possible.

Careless: You would think that most people would probably consider “CARELESS” the worst sin of them all, since it’s a complete lack of concern that results in people doing really dumb stuff without even thinking to avoid harm or error. Perhaps some of these DEADLY SINS of gun handling may seem more extreme and dangerous than others, but they are all equally as intolerable. Safety should always be everyone’s priority, no matter your background, your training, the type of firearms you own, or the way you carry your gun.

1. Always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction.

2. Always keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.

3. Always keep the gun unloaded until ready to use.

(The exception to rule #3 would be if you use the gun for self-defense.)

Paul Foreman is a retired deputy sheriff from Lee County Florida, now living in Athens. Paul is an NRA Certified Firearms Instructor. “As many of you may already know, due to my current battle with cancer, I am NOT doing firearms classes.

Prayers are welcome. As for the classes, I have a gentleman whom I am referring people to, who is also an NRA certified Firearms Instructor.” Email me at: Captureman@ PaulForeman.com Join the NRA and protect your 2nd Amendment Rights go to www.PaulForeman.com click on the NRA Eagle.

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