Validity Magazine December 2014 by validitymag

Validit y

Uncovered: Opera House Complimentary

December 2014 Vol. 4, Issue 12

Keg Springs Winery Bringing Wines

C e ll a r M a s tbe r’ s W in e C lu

Life!

Ask Us for Details! Open Wed - Sun • Noon to 6 • 361 Keg Springs Rd. • Hampshire • 931-285-0589 • KegSprings.com

Live Music April through October 2nd & 4th Saturdays

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HOME SERVICES

Maury Regional Home Services, recognized for the ninth consecutive year as a top performing provider in the nation, offers patients quality health care services in the comfort of their own home. This year, their performance resulted in being ranked among the Top 500 agencies in a group of nearly 10,000 nationwide. Services provided to residents in the southern Middle Tennessee region include:

Pasta • Calzones • authentiC Pizza • Fire-Grilled steaks & ChiCken

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Trust an organization nationally recognized for quality!

Open 7 Days 931-722-5611 In Loving Memory of Founder

Glenda West Francis 1957-2014

38 Years at Emerald’s Restaurant mauryregional.com

You

128 West Courthouse Square Waynesboro, Tennessee Validitymag.com

3 .

Inside this issue of

Validity

Table of Contents

NEW It’s A Dickens Christmas, Y’all t his mont h: Dieting Tips for the Holidays

Step into a book for a day and have a novel time.

Slenderize your holiday snacking to stay on track.

December 2014 Vol. 4, Issue 12

Page 10

Page 12

Patrick Burns Knife Maker By Cody Crawford

Fire and iron spark his exceptional artistry. Page 15

A Soldier’s Child By Shane Newbold

Kids facing incredible loss gather for a weekend hunt. Page 20

Tech Gifts

By Justin Crawford Cool but pricey gadgets for the techie in your life.

Opera House Uncovered By Cody Crawford

Page 23

Haitian Reality By Michelle Bonville

The century old edifice that housed an exquisite secret.

A missionary to Haiti imparts thoughts on a violent culture. Page 23

Cover Photo & Photo Above: Mac Brown Photographers & Gallery

Page 18

In Every Issue:

Here A Curry, There A Curry, Everywhere a Curry, Curry By Katie Hayes

December’s Garden

Also in this Issue:

By Cassandra Warner Garden gifts.

Ole McKatie has a recipe (e-i-e-i-o).

Ornithology Report

Page 6

One Attorney’s Opinion

Page 28

New custodial laws in Tennessee force parents to play nice.

Wanna sleep outside? Grow some feathers.

From The Publisher, Page 5 A Hug From Jesus, Page 32

By Landis Turner

By Bill Pulliam

Scan this code wit h your smart phone to visit www.Validit yMag.c om

Cerebral Meanderings, Page 34 www.ValidityMag.com

Page 33

Page 26

Validity Magazine is published monthly in Hohenwald, Tennessee. Validity Magazine reserves the right to edit editorial and advertising submissions for appropriateness of the publication. Reproduction of any part of Validity Magazine without permission of the publisher is prohibited. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of information, products or services. Views expressed in Validity Magazine do not necessarily represent those of the publisher. Every effort has been made to insure accuracy of the publication contents. However, we do not guarantee the accuracy of all information nor the absence of errors and omissions.

Validity Magazine, Published 12 times per year, monthly, Vol. 4, Issue 12 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Validity Magazine, P. O. Box 516, Hohenwald, TN 38462-0516. Address Service Requested. Subscriptions are available on an annual basis at $20 per year. Mail check or money order to: Validity Subscriptions, P.O. Box 516, Hohenwald, Tennessee 38462.

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Publisher Becky Jane Newbold, info@ValidityMag.com, 931-628-6039. Managing Editor Shane Newbold, info@ValidityMag.com, 931-628-6039 Director of Digital Innovation Cody Crawford, cody@validitymag.com, 615-768-9479 Contributing Writers, Bill Pulliam, Cassandra Warner, Charles Newbold Jr., Cynthia Rohrbach, Justin Crawford, Katie Hayes, Landis Turner Contributing Photographers, Cassandra Warner, Katie Hayes, Mac Brown Technical Advisor, Larry Bartley Validity Magazine exists to reflect rural lifestyles of rural communities along the Natchez Trace Parkway in both storytelling and photo journalism. This local publication is designed to promote positive life experiences by delivering authentic,

Our Mission

relevant content on healthy living, nature, outdoors, technology, gardening, entertainment and travel to the people who enjoy the small town experience.

S ing Our Anthem

From The Publisher

ost realize, now, how crucial it is to shop on Main Street America. The part few want to admit and especially discuss in public is how often most venture to “big box” America in necessity or convenience. Complete transparency: I do it too, on occasion. But with less frequency than ever before, I can happily say. Thriving small towns are growing as entrepreneurs dig in and learn customer service and how to keep up with demand. And let’s face it, customer service has to be one of the top reasons a potential customer will: 1. Become an angry, exasperated customer making a hasty exit, leaving the door bell jingling and the glass in the door quivering; or 2. Turn into some of the best advertising your small business could ever hope to receive with so-

cial media posts, tweets and praise in all the right places. From the north to the south in Validity’s range, small businesses run by 20-somethings all the way up to retirees are enjoying some of the best job growth and quality of life ever. You know our mantra: Small town living cannot be matched. Yep, the “big box” seemingly has it all: convenience, availability and sometimes friendly service. Yet, we sacrifice so much for convenience. Made in America products appear to be on the rebound. Wal-Mart has, in the past couple of years, realized the demand exists and seems to be making a return to their founder’s dream. As you finalize your holiday gift purchases, take another look at your own Main Street or Public Square. It really does not take that much more time to shop at home.

Most of the time, parking is a little closer, the face behind the counter is a friend (or a poBy Becky Jane Newbold tential friend) and your dollar spent supporting a local artist or shopkeeper goes straight to your local economy, building schools and city streets. Once you become familiar with your local merchants’ offerings, you know where to go to find what you need. And most times, a local store that wants your business will prove it with exceptional customer service. From Franklin to Columbia to Centerville, to Pulaski, Lawrenceburg, Waynesboro, Hohenwald, Linden and Leiper’s Fork, all the way to Tuscumbia, Tupelo and Natchez, your business is important. But don’t take my word for it, check it out. Ask your local busi-

ness owner how they got their start and you might be surprised at the jewels you find. Join us this month, sing our anthem: Local is who we are, where we live and how we roll. If you are not sure where to start, look within the pages of this month’s issue. We consider every advertiser, a friend. Check them out and let us know what you think online. Be safe, laugh often, smile much and enjoy time with those who love you. Blessings to you, my friends.

Richland Trace Market Home of the Bodenham Barbecue Smoked Ribs • Boston Butts • Fresh Chicken Tenders

Live Music • Open Mic • Thursday Night Highway 64 West • Pulaski, Tennessee • 931-363-0591

680 East Main St. Hohenwald, TN 38462

Jones & Lang

Sporting goodS, inc. 1412 Trotwood ave. suite 3 Columbia, Tn 38401

931-388-8060 Fax: 931-388-1202 Toll Free: 1-877-396-0496

www.jonesandlang.com Validitymag.com

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Validity Recipes

A Curry, Curry Holiday

Katie Hayes Taylor

Spices: Red Curry Paste, Curry Powder, Garam Masala, Turmeric

removing lid, let sit for another 20 minServes 4 utes. When Ingredients-Pomegranate Rice ready to eat, 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice fluff with 1 cup coconut milk fork, season 1 cup water with salt arils from one pomegranate and pepper salt and pepper, to taste and stir in Ingredients-Curry pomegran1 medium butternut squash, ate arils. peeled and cubed (about 1 lb) 1 can chickpeas/garbanzo Instructions-Curry: beans, rinsed and drained 1. While rice is cooking, begin 2 tablespoons coconut oil the curry. Heat a large skillet over pinch of salt and pepper medium-high heat with coconut 1 cup canned pureed pumpkin oil. Add the cubed squash, and 1 (14 ounce) can coconut milk sauté until tender and beginning ¼ cup sweet Thai red chili to brown, about 10-15 minutes. sauce Add the garbanzo beans, and stir ¼ cup creamy peanut butter for 5 minutes. Add the pureed 2 tablespoons Thai red curry pumpkin, and stir for another 2 paste minutes. 1 tablespoon soy sauce 2. To the skillet, add the coco1 tablespoon fresh ginger, nut milk, sweet Thai chili sauce, grated peanut butter, soy sauce, Thai red 2 teaspoons curry powder curry paste, ginger and curry pow¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped der. Stir to combine, and bring to Instructions-Rice: a low boil. 1. Prepare the pomegranate rice 3. Let simmer for 10 minutes, unby bringing the water and coconut til the sauce thickens. milk to a low boil. 4. Serve curry over rice, with fresh 2. Slowly add in the rice, stir to cilantro. combine, place lid on top, and turn heat down to low. Do not Recipe inspired by Thai Peanut remove lid or stir for 10 minutes. Chicken from halfbakedharvest. 3. Turn off heat, and still without com

Katie Hayes Taylor

Thai Squash and Chickpea Curry with Pomegranate Rice

By Katie Hayes Taylor

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Thai Squash and Chickpea Curry with Pomegranate Rice

Katie Hayes Taylor

urry dishes, with all their color and beauty, can be intimidating to prepare. How much curry powder do I add? Where in the world do I find turmeric? During college, I spent time in India and fell in love with the rich culture and food. Despite loving so many of the flavors I tried while there, it wasn’t until recently I began experimenting with making curry and southeast Asian dishes in my home. Maybe you have been to a local Indian or Thai restaurant and enjoyed the food, but actually recreating what you ate seems daunting. Maybe you are like me and know you love the food, but you can never seem to get the spices right. Lately, I have focused on simplicity rather than complexity with curry and have honed a few dishes I know even the new cook will be able to master.

Katie Hayes Taylor

1 tablespoon coconut oil ½ yellow onion, thinly sliced 1 garlic clove, minced ½ - 1 inch ginger root, grated 2 teaspoons yellow curry powder ½ teaspoon turmeric pinch of cayenne pepper 1 (14 ounce) can coconut milk (not light) 1 teaspoon honey salt and pepper to taste

Katie Hayes Taylor

Instructions-Brown Rice: 1. Prepare the brown rice by bringing the water and coconut milk to a low boil. 2. Slowly add in the rice, coconut oil, coconut flakes and salt. Stir to combine. Place lid on top, and turn heat down to low. Do not remove lid or stir for 50 minutes. 3. Remove from heat, and let sit with cover for an additional 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

Thai Squash and Chickpea Curry with Pomegranate Rice

Instructions-Roasted Vegetables: 1. While rice is cooking, preheat oven to 400 degrees. Toss potatoes and carrots with oil, salt and pepper. Roast for 3040 minutes, or until tender and beginning to brown. 2. During the last few min-

Roasted Root Vegetable Coconut Curry with Crispy Greens

Serves 3 Ingredients-Coconut Brown Rice 1 tablespoon coconut oil 2 tablespoons unsweetened flaked coconut 1 cup brown rice 1 cup light coconut milk 1 cup water ½ teaspoon salt Ingredients-Roasted Vegetables 1 lb assorted potatoes (I used sweet potatoes, white potatoes and purple potatoes), sliced 1 cup sliced carrots 1 bunch winter greens (I used turnip greens. Can use kale, collard, mustard, etc), torn into bite size pieces coconut oil for roasting salt and pepper Ingredients-Yellow Coconut Curry Sauce

Roasted Root Vegetable Coconut Curry with Crispy Greens

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7 .

utes, while the potatoes/carrots are roasting, add in the greens on top of the vegetables in the oven. Crispen for 5-10 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. Set aside.

Katie Hayes Taylor

Instructions-Yellow Coconut Curry Sauce: 1. While vegetables are roasting and rice is cooking, prepare the curry sauce. 2. Heat oil in a medium-sized pot over medium heat. 3. Sauté onions until translucent and beginning to brown. To the onions, add all the spices. Com-

Roasted Root Vegetable Coconut Curry with Crispy Greens

bine well by stirring until the onions are covered in the spices. 4. Add the can of coconut milk, and bring to a slow boil. Let simmer for about 10 minutes until sauce begins to thicken. 5. To serve, place vegetables over rice, pour curry sauce

over vegetables, and top with crispy greens.

Crockpot Butter Chicken

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for serving

Instructions: Recipe adapted from edibleper- 1. Combine the coconut milk, Greek yogurt and half and half in spective.com a bowl, whisking well to combine. Crockpot Butter Chicken Stir in tomato paste, garlic, ginger and all spices, mixing well. Serves 4 2. Spray the inside of crockpot Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken with non-stick spray or olive oil. Place onions,chicken, and coconut breasts, cut into bite-sized milk-spice mixture in crockpot. pieces ½ onion, finely chopped 2 tablespoons butter 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon ginger, grated 2 teaspoons curry powder 2 teaspoons Thai red curry paste 2 tablespoons garam masala 1 teaspoon turmeric ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper ¼ teaspoon salt 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste 1 (14 ounce) can regular coconut milk (not light) ½ cup Greek yogurt ¼ cup half and half cooked brown rice, Katie Hayes Taylor

Katie Hayes Taylor

Crockpot Butter Chicken

A Spanish translator by day, Katie Hayes Taylor is an avid runner who finds creativity in the kitchen relaxing. Her passion is finding new recipes that are outside the box, fresh and seasonally grown.

3. Cover, and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6-8 hours. (Your house will smell amazing!) 4. Serve over rice. Recipe Source: Easy and Healthier Crockpot Butter Chicken on Halfbakedharvest.com

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9 .

Tuscumbia, Alabama

It’s A Dickens Christmas Y ‘all! Submitted

now will fall on the square in Tuscumbia, Alabama on Saturday, December 15, but no weather personality will be predicting it. The 4th Annual “It’s a Dickens Christmas Y’all” will again be hosted by Tuscumbia Retail Development with white stuff provided by a snow machine. Attractions include Dickens’ characters

Submitted

i m i M ’s

UniqUe Gifts Jewelry BaGs apparel

256-248-4761

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Mimis

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Submitted

105 W. 6th Street Tuscumbia, AL 35674

on the streets of downtown Tuscumbia, carriage rides, Breakfast with Santa, Milk and Cookies with Tiny Tim, a Dickens Dash 5K and Tiny Tim Trot for the younger crowd, not to mention the Dickens Feast on the Friday evening prior to the main event. Guests may dine with characters from Dickens’ A Christmas Carol during the annual dinner. For more information on Dickens with a Southern twist, call 256383-9797 or find Dickens Christmas Y’all on Facebook.

www.TopoftheWorldFarm.com

Top

of the

World Farm 

grass fed

beef

grass fed

lamb

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pasture finished

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pork pastured

chicken

Price info: topoftheworldfarm@gmail.com

901-491-0183

Explore Historic

HoHeNwald, TeNNessee www.HohenwaldTN.org

Southern Lady 24 E. Main, Hohenwald, TN 931-796-3554

Closed Thursday

Levi’s For The Family

Serving Breakfast All Day!

Skipper’s Korner Kitchen Full Menu Plate Lunches Daily Open Mon. - Sat., 6 a.m. - 2 p.m. R

123 North Park St. • Hohenwald 931-796-1255

Hohenwald Medical Center Wishes Our Patients A

Happy, Healthy Holiday Season!

Embassy Inn

20 South Park Street Hohenwald, TN 38462

235 E. Main St. Hohenwald

931-786-1500

931-796-7960

EmbassyInnHohenwald.com

M e rry Christmas

and your neck, and ...

From Your Friends At

Herrin’s Service Center

You Work Hard

931-796-2666 336 East Main • Hohenwald, TN 38462 Steaks • Catfish • Ribs

River Rat Grill Open 11 a - 9 p Closed Wednesday

35 North Maple Hohenwald, TN 38462

931-796-4330

Fresh & Homemade Every Day!

Stewart Family Chiropractic

We Know What It Takes To Get You Going Again

487 E. Main • Hohenwald, TN • 931-796-2565

Duncan’s Hardware & Building Supply

Wishing You a Merry Christmas Hohenwald Walmart Store #1115

Hohenwald • Linden 1220 Squirrel Hollow Dr.,

Linden, TN

931-589-2155

210 Mill Ave.,

612 East Main • Hohenwald, Tennessee 38462

931-796-1511

931-796-3282

Hohenwald, TN

M.-F., 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat., 8 a.m.- 2 p.m. M.-F., 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat., 8 a.m.- 4 p.m.

www.walmart.com Validitymag.com

11 .

Ten Tips To Keep It Skinny

Staying On Track During The Holidays

estivities abound in the holiday season, and nobody wants to be on a diet. But with a little planning, you can enjoy the holidays and keep svelte, through all the sugar-cured ham and whiskey-infused eggnog. We know it can be difficult, so here are ten tips to help keep you slender this year.

foods you really like and stay within a portion size. Your taste buds and your waistline will both thank you for it.

3. Take the Focus off the Food Of course, the holidays are about food. But they are also about family and friends, good conversations and the joy of being together. Plan a fun evening out ice skating, an energetic game of charades, or if 1. Have a Plan Setting goals for yourself will the weather permits, a tag football make it easier to stay on track. Eat- playoff with the family. Taking the ing and exercising consciously will focus off the food might actually be help keep out the empty calories. fun and get everyone some exercise Apps such as MyFitnessPal allow in the process. you to set food goals, as well as track the food you’ve eaten and the 4. Chew Gum Stuck in the kitchen all day exercise you’ve done. If you don’t use apps, a simple pen and paper with those delicious smells? Chew gum to keep yourself from samwill do the trick. pling freely. Make sure the gum is sugar-free. 2. Portion your Food Don’t deny yourself that piece of pumpkin pie or cheesecake for 5. Eat Slowly When you do finally sit down dessert. Just remember, you don’t need a huge piece to satisfy your for that big meal, eat slowly and craving. Regulating portion sizes savor each bite. Don’t fill up your is a smart lifestyle choice, while plate – there are always leftovers! having an unrealistic diet will only Slowing down the eating process make you want to quit. Choose will assure you know when you are full and prevent overeating.

April’s Attic If I’m Not Open - I’m Shopping!

My Centerville store is open one week each month So, I’d better make it count! I hand pick every treasure in my 1,600 square foot store You Never Know What You’ll Find Because I Never Know What I’ll Find!

So, mark your calendar & come see me!

Open Two Weeks in December! December 1st - December 7th December 15th- December 21st Monday - Sunday 9 - 4 In Centerville take Hwy 50 west 5 miles & look for our signs. We’re near the winery! Visit www.aprils-attic.com or Call 931 628-0374

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6. Deal with Leftovers The inevitable hordes of leftovers from every holiday meal don’t have to be eaten immediately or go to waste. Most leftovers can be portioned and frozen for eating at a later date. Many can also be paired with healthier foods for a next-day low calorie meal.

Regulate portion sizes for smart lifestyle choices.

7. Drink Responsibly Everyone loves a merry holiday drink, but many of them are chock-full of sugar and calories. By all means, have your favorite drink, but remember a few things. Alcoholic beverages often have many more calories than non-alcoholic. Wine and light beers usually have fewer calories than sugary liquor drinks. If you must partake in a few unhealthy libations, space them out by having a glass of seltzer water in between each one.

to end up getting one, plan for it by having fewer calories or by doing a little bit more exercise that day. 10. Don’t Give Up It has happened to the best of us. We’re moving along, everything going as planned with our diet, then we overeat at a meal with friends or family. But one meal, or even a bad day, doesn’t have to dictate the next few months. Don’t give up on your diet or exercise plan. Remember, as long as you keep trying, you haven’t failed.

8. Don’t Stop Exercising Even if you just do it for 15 to 30 minutes a day, don’t stop exercising during the holidays. Keeping your exercise habits in check will make it easier to shed those extra 29th Annual pounds you might gain Christmas Under the Ball’s from all the food.

Keg County Pawn Shop’s

9. Pack Snacks for Shopping Food companies kick into high gear for holiday advertising, and there’s nothing more tempting than a sugary holiday coffee or hot chocolate when you’re out shopping. To resist those enticements, pack a few healthy snacks and a to-go cup. Nothing can ruin a daily diet like a 700-calorie snack food or beverage. If you know you’re going

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For 14 Days only! Everything From Corner To Corner Will Be Marked Down. Diamonds – Gold – Guitars –Tools – Ps3 & Xbox 360 & Hundreds Of Games – Laptops – Tablets – Black Powder Guns & High Power Pellet Rifles. The List Is Endless!

Come get a Christmas Ball and enter to win amazing prizes.

Come have a ball at

Keg County Pawn Shop’s 1200 Hwy 100, Centerville, TN

931-729-3143

29th Annual Christmas Salebration

M.-F., 9-5, Sat., 9-3

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Historic

Hickman county

www.terrabambino.com Isaiah 44:24

931.729.0690 wildducksoupemporium.com

Walk on the Wild Side!

Chert Cheap Groceries & General Store

David’s Body Shop, LLC

109 N. Central Ave., Centerville

OPEN Fresh Produce &

Mon - Sat.* 8a.m. - 7p.m.

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Outdoors

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4840 Hwy 100 • Lyles, TN 37098 Phone: 931-670-7500 • Fax: 931-670-7507

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& Sports

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Dine at the Historic

Food That Satisfies

Pharmacy • Medical Needs • Gifts

Wed. - Sun. 6 a.m. - 8 p.m.

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111 S. Public Square Centerville

401 W. Public Square Centerville, TN 37033

(931) 729-3481

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Fax -931-729-4874

Liberty Clinic Pharmacy 146 E. Swan Street, Centerville

931-729-2999 • Fax- 931-729-3393

Come & Speak With Our Pharmacists They Are Here To Help You With All Your Pharmacy Needs

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Open House Open 7 Days - Sat. 9 - 5 December 6th M.Sun. 11-3 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

931-729-0052

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13 .

Shop LocaL – There’s No Business Like Downtown Business! New Lines! Bigger Store!

CreativeDesigns

Creative d Designs

Fancy Pants

Consignment & Boutique Owner, Jade Heatherly

2 Public Square Lawrenceburg, TN 931-279-1724

Mon. - Fri., 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sat., 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Gifts & Baby Registr y

Christmas in Lawrenceburg k 5 d e e c l . t 6 s th u H o H Hoeginning at 7:30 a.m. B

Movie Time! Providence Hall, 12 noon VisiT sanTa at City Hall, 2 - 4 p.m. Lighting of Mayor’s Christmas Tree 5 p.m. CHrisTMas Parade, immediately following

o l i days! H y p p a From Main Street H Lawrenceburg

21 Public Square • Lawrenceburg, TN

931-766-0636 Open Tues. - Fri., 9-5, Sat. 9-2

www.mainstreetlawrenceburgtn.com 14,000 Squar e Feet 2 Floors 60 Dealers!

Miss Millie’s Gifts and Bridal Registry

931-762-3366 • 931-629-7314

booths-booths-booths 110 Waterloo Street Open Tues-Fri Lawrenceburg, TN 10-5, Sat 10-4 38464

YUM!

Dine In or Gourmet to Go

Tuesday - Friday 9-5, Saturday 9-2

106 Waterloo Street • Lawrenceburg

Weathers Brothers Music

Waterloo Mercantile

931-231-0123

Open 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Mon. - Sat.

antiques, unique gifts, painted furniture, candles, bird houses, clocks, light fixtures, lamps

12 Public Square Lawrenceburg, TN 38464

A n ti q u e s

Primitives • Hoosier Cabinets • Pie Safes • Corner Cabinets • Jackson Press • Vintage, New & Antique Books • Glassware & Pottery including: McCoy, Roseville, Hull, Fenton, Fiesta, Flow Blue & More!

45 Public Square Lawrenceburg, TN

www.newmoonantiques.com

931-762-1269 Square Forty reStaurant

Vintage • Restyled • Handmade

7 a - 2 p Sun.- Fri., 7 a - 12 p Sat.

Soul Food

Authorized Dealer

13 Public Square • Lawrenceburg, TN 38464 931-762-6055 • www.Billsbluegrass.com

Bill Phillips, owner • Open 9-5, Mon. - Sat.

Just 2 blocks off Hwy. 43 & 1 block off Hwy. 64

Clothing for Men Shoes for Children, Ladies & Men

36 Public Square Wed. - Sat., 11 - 5 Lawrenceburg

39 Public Square • Lawrenceburg

931-762-3116

40 Public Square Lawrenceburg 931-762-2868

www.arcadiaknives.blogspot.com

Patrick Burns, Creator of Arcadia Knives

to Tennessee, he began devoting more time to his craft. Now, he creates high-quality custom knives for an affordable price. They range from $75 to $200, depending on the size and quality of materials. “I grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and worked in printing for almost 25 years. Work was always hectic. My wife and I decided to move to Tennessee in 2007 as our

www.arcadiaknives.blogspot.com

lacksmithing turned into Knives. When he took a class in knife making for Patrick 2005, he learned the art, and in Burns, owner of Arcadia 2007, when he and his wife moved

A stainless steel kitchen knife set, a wedding gift for his son, with handles made of Manzanita burl.

final pitstop in the ‘rat race.’ Our homestead is called ARCADIA which [to us] means ‘A region of ideal rustic simplicity and contentment.’ Moving to a rural setting has really fired my passion for knife making. Each knife I make is oneof-a-kind.” Patrick Burns creates as much of the knife as he possibly can, even making some of the handle materi-

The Building Company Thinking Outside The Box, From Concept, Through Process, To Product Certified LEED GREEN ASSOCIATE

(931) 796-6853

Pride • Integrity • Performance • Since 1988 www. NestleDownHome .com Validitymag.com

15 .

A modified Ol’ Hickory knife with hand-stitched rawhide handle; a Damascus Hunter with elk antler handle; a Damascus Hunter with slippery elm burl handle; a small utility knife with white-tailed deer antler handle; a forged file knife with Desert Ironwood handle; and a forged file knife with tiger maple handle.

To learn more, visit the Arcadia Knives website at arcadiaknives.com or follow Patrick at www.arcadiaknives.blogspot.com . 16

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www.arcadiaknives.blogspot.com

al himself. Handle materials might be made from wood, antlers and even cloth or canvas. Designing the sheath as well, Patrick creates each knife according to customer specifications and tries to repurpose materials when possible. “I even did a knife where I made a handle out of a military uniform. It was as personal as it could be for the guy,” he commented. Patrick makes mostly utility and hunting knives. “I’ve made kitchen knives before,” he said. “But there’s a lot more handwork involved with those.” Using high carbon steel, he works with each A Railroad Spike knife made using a power customer to give hammer. “The handle was twisted and the blade them exactly what was forged out first with the power hammer and they want. It usufinished using my arm and hammer.” ally takes 8 to 12 hours for Patrick to complete a single knife. “Forging blades is how I started making knives,” Patrick commented. “There is something mystical about using fire to create things. With hammer and fire you can start out with just about any size/shape piece of steel and pound it into the desired shape.” Arcadia Knives are sold mainly at heritage and craft shows. In December, Patrick Burns plans to be at the Farm School Holiday Bazaar in Summertown.

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On the square in Pulaski, Antoinette Hall, a premier opera house, first opened December 25, 1868, now in desperate need of restoration.

whole side of the Pulaski square in 1868, word circulated that Angentorybooks couldn’t tell a bet- old Cox would be the first to erect a new building on the site. The hall ter tale. After a fire destroyed a he built was impressive, able to seat . 18 Validitymag.com

By Cody Crawford

Mac Brown Photography

Opera House Rediscovered

500 people. The citizens of Pulaski loved their new opera house, and it opened on Christmas Day of that year. There were merchants on the first floor of the building, with the

magnificent hall situated on the second floor. The opera house, named after Cox’s daughter, was called Antoinette Hall. For years, it boasted entertainers from all over, becoming a great success in the community. The opera house changed managers several times, and even changed its name in 1884, being called the Pulaski Opera House. The hall eventually closed in the 1930s, due to the advent of moving picture shows and walk-in theatres. Enter the Southern Tennessee Area Arts Repertory (STAAR) and Tammy Pierchoski. After outgrowing their theatre in Lynnville, Tennessee, the group began to look around the Pulaski area. They were offered a great rental rate on a building on the town square of Pulaski and accepted the offer gratefully. “We got the theatre running on the main floor,” Pierchoski told Validity. It became the STAAR Theatre and Center for the Arts. “Visual and performing arts is so important in the community. We have 100 kids coming for an audition, and we don’t turn anyone away. Some of them want to be on stage and some of them want to learn the tech part of it.” When the owner decided he would sell the building, Pierchoski remembers, “He said he would take off a huge amount of the cost and donate it to the theatre if we wanted to buy it. We bit the bullet and bought the building.” They had yet to go to the second floor, but the previous owner said he used it for storage. “We took flashlights up there and opened up these double doors,” Pierchoski relates, “and then we saw it. There it sat, this beautiful opera house. I literally sat down on the floor and started crying.” She said she knew right then that they were in the right place. The passion in Pierchoski’s voice for the theatre and arts in the community was evident. Her stories about the history of the theatre tumbled out as she discussed STAAR’s plans for restoring the opera house. “It is one of the oldest opera houses that opened as an

Mac Brown Photography

opera house and remained so until it closed,” she said, excited. Pierchoski says they are in the very beginning stages of restoring it. “Basically, the planning committees are working now. The biggest question we have for the engineers is, ‘Can we save it?’ They’re going down into the basement level. Everything is built on rocks. For the weight we’re going to put back on it, we want to make sure we’re structurally safe.” They are seeking donations for the project, and Pierchoski says they’re planning on return-

Historians as well as performance and music aficionados can appreciate this space.

Mac Brown Photography

Recently, Mac Brown Photography used the space for a senior portrait shoot.

Mac Brown Photography

The doomed roof, visible from the street, covers an 1868 opera house.

ing the hall to its original name, Antoinette Hall. The plans are to make it a community arts center, complete with a dance studio, an art studio, rooms for music teachers, a recording studio and a coffee shop. “You walk in and just get that overwhelming rush of how beautiful it must have been back then,” Pierchoski remarked. “We want it to have that feel of stepping back in time.” To learn more about the opera house, visit staar-arts.org.

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Jon A. Hunt Photography

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19 .

Becky J. Newbold

Carrying the Torch of the Fallen

Guides and kids gather for a morning hunt.

Becky J. Newbold

Left, Founder/Executive Director of ASC Daryl JW Mackin, Glen Price and Stan Bevis organized the event, combining it with a hunt named Quintin’s Quest, honoring the memory of Quintin Keeton, a young man from Collinwood.

(including Mrs. Annette’s fried pies) to feed a hundred or more embership is exclu- parents, visitors and the 24 sive at the ASC Foun- ASC kids, capped off the evedation. Your mom or ning. Earlier in the day, the kids dad must have been a soldier learned gun safety and shot tarwho died. Two legacies remain for gets until all zeroed in on the fallen military personnel: 1) kill-zone. Natchez Trace Park service for their country and Ranger Daniel Kimes, Tennes2) the sons and daughters they see Wildlife Resources Agency staff, Brandon Taylor, Daniel leave behind. ASC (A Soldier’s Child) Plunkett and Clinton Newton, fills some of the void for the and many volunteers provided military kids with yearly events, the ammo, targets, firearms including birthday parties, deer and shooting range in the hills hunts, fishing tournaments, of Wayne County. Saturday dove hunts, 4th of July run/ morning, the boys and girls walk races and Journey Camps. with their respective guides Validity had the privilege of stalked secretive White-tailed being invited to the weekend deer, many for the first time. deer hunt at Stan and Win- The aspiration for this event is nette Bevis’s home and camp to emulate an activity a father in Collinwood/Wayne County or mother might enjoy with Tennessee. On Friday, a vari- and teach his youngster. ASC and the Wayne ety of stews, chili and desserts . 20 Validitymag.com By Shane Newbold

Becky J. Newbold

A firearms instructor assists one of the young men at the rifle range.

Becky J. Newbold

Below, volunteers prepared a meal for more than 100 people.

Becky J. Newbold

TWRA’s Brandon Taylor assisting an ASC kid.

food by Rick’s Barbecue and rifles by Remington added to the blessings. “Community is something we sometimes feel is lacking in our country. It’s not lacking here,” volunteer Glen Price commented. This year, 18 ASC boys and six ASC girls participated in the hunt. The farthest distance traveled by a hunter was from Colorado. And from Validity’s perspective, the folks at ASC are highly dedicated to fulfilling their goals to support and honor the legacy of the fallen. Mentorship, leadership development and scholarship assistance are also part of the ASC Foundation based in Murfreesboro. For more detailed information and inspiring commentary, visit www.asoldierschild.org. Validitymag.com 21 .

Becky J. Newbold

County hunt have touched many lives, from local volunteers to country music stars. “In 2013, Country Artist Darryl Worley dropped in and was very moved by the kids. Making true to his promise last year, he invited one of the ASC kids down to his farm in Hardin County to hunt and served as the child’s guide. Jared from Georgia was accompanied by Worley,” volunteer Cheryl Bevis explained. Donations of gear by Mossy Oak,

Matthew of North Carolina with hunt guide, Wayne Stults of Collinwood.

Becky J. Newbold

Submitted by Cheryl Bevis

Firearms Instructor Daniel Kimes assisting at the rifle range.

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Justin’s Tech Gadgets N

erds of the world have had a great year. We have seen all kinds of awesome, new items hit the market. And I am here to guide you through getting the best gift for the nerd in your life (Cody, I am looking at you).

New TV

ous paragraph here. Except one thing… iPhone 6 Plus! I must say, I really want this phone. Bigger screen. Better battery. Better processor. Apple Pay. Yes. Yes. Yes. Want. Want. Want. :-D

because, you know, I like looking cool like a 12 year old kid at the mall. Seriously though, the audio quality is good, but I would note that Beats are “all about that bass, no treble.” Just like the Jambox, the battery life of the Beats wireless headphones is amazing. I listen to them several hours out of the day and have to charge them every couple of weeks. Drone

A drone – the ultimate nerd gift! You can get drones these days in all sizes and price ranges. Now, Validity takes no responsibility if the nerd for which you get a drone violates some FAA regulations. I Sound Bar This goes hand in hand with would love a drone. I would set up a new TV. The sound bar I love my own Kessel Run and try to beat is the Sonos. Actually, the whole Han Solo’s 12 Parsecs. Sonos system is cool. You buy individual speakers (yes, they can be Xbox One I am not a big video game guy. pricey), but you pick which kind I have played lots of them, but not of speaker(s). You can either have them all work as one system or “played” played them. My buddy control them individually via Wifi. Ross has an Xbox One, and it is awesome. The games are fun and Very cool. look great. With voice commands and Kinect, this is a great nerd gift Wireless Speaker I know what you are think- for sure. ing: How is this different from the sound bar category? Well, I am talking about a portable Bluetooth speaker. I won’t lie, because “ain’t nobody got time for that,” but Cody and I have a mini Jambox. It’s extremely portable (fitting into my non-skinny jeans back pocket) and has great battery life. I actually don’t even know how long the battery lasts, because it has never been a problem. You can even get two or more and sync them together to play the same thing.

I didn’t list a particular TV because these days there are so many great ones out there. However, in my opinion, the curved Samsung TV looks awesome. Don’t get me wrong; By Justin do I think that Crawford it will greatly change how you watch TV? No. Do I think it will be such a distinct curve that it’s bothersome to watch? No. I do think that it would look excellent in the corner of your living room. Like most TVs that come out now, it is in 3D and is LED. Samsung offers a 4K version, but I am not sure I would spring the extra dough for it. Why, you ask? Because I don’t think 4K is there yet. I would rather wait and get a 4K TV when there is more to Apple TV watch and the TV is cheaper. Sadly, our Apple TV became the victim of a lightning strike… iPad side note-- replace your surge proAnother year, another iPad. Plenty simple, but Apple keeps tectors after 5 years, or go and get raising the bar. You would think one that pays for your stuff if it fails. they would run out of stuff to up- Anyway, the Apple TV has added grade or put into the iPad, yet they lots of new channels and works always come up with something. seamlessly in the Apple world of teIn my book, you could always grab chie things. We also have a Roku, one of these as a gift, and yes, if the and it works well and would be a nerd in your family likes Android great gift too. or Windows, there are tablet opHeadphones tions for them. Everyone is making high-end headphones these days. I actuiPhone Copy and paste the previ- ally have a pair of wireless Beats

Camera

You would think in this day and age, where there are cameras on your phone, tablet and computer, a camera would go the way of the Polaroid. However, it has just sparked people’s interest in cameras. There are all kinds of cameras out there that are amazing, from DSLRs to point and click units. The particular camera really depends on the level of user for which you are buying. The good news is that there are tons of options for every skill level. Apple Watch

The Apple Watch may not be a Christmas gift since it won’t be out until next year, but hey, my birthday is in January. If it’s not out by then, there is always President’s Day in February… or St. Patrick’s Day in March… or Tax Day in April… well, I guess you guys get the point. Justin Crawford holds a degree in Engineering Technology from MTSU. He is employed as a network engineer.

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23 .

From The

School

Mariani, Haiti

A Haitian Reality C oming from the land of the free and the home of the brave, I have found that ministering in Haiti can cause ex-

By Michelle Bonville treme culture shock in certain areas. For instance, Haitian society as a whole promotes violence and devalues human life. In most cases, this desanctification of life is a direct result of greed for either money or power. During elections, political opponents will pay “thugs” and those who practice voodoo to start mani-

festations (violent riots) and Rah Rahs (a voodoo procession). Manifestations can be fairly peaceful, but at times they go to the opposite extreme. Throwing rocks and burning tires in the street are common. Occasionally, they will apply a torture device called a “Haitian necklace,” which is a gasolinedoused tire placed around a person and ignited. Another possibility is dismemberment and immolation. It is conceivable that, while driving down the road, you might see a pile of ashes with hands and feet laying nearby. A common sight during a Rah Rah is a large group of voodoo people proceeding down the streets playing music, singing, waving branches and dancing. They are usually led by a young man waving a voodoo flag. At times you will see them carry a disembodied arm, head, etc. as they walk. As is often the case when politicians are corrupt, the police in Haiti do not always uphold the law or the best interests of the citizens. Since the people do not trust the police, vigilante justice reigns and thieves are often handed an immediate death sentence. If someone yells “vòlè” (thief ) anyone in the vicinity immediately attempts to apprehend the offender. At night you can hear gunshots, one after another, as thieves are being driven away or killed. One morning, an alleged thief ’s body was left just outside our compound. He had been shot in the head four times, covered with a sheet, then left there. I was appalled that this was acceptable, and found myself wondering: Was he really a thief? Does he have a family? How long will it be before his family receives word of his demise? Violence and death have become so commonplace in Haiti that people often walk right past the dead without a second glance. The unfortunate side effect of such a desensitized culture is that the children suffer. Since I have worked with young children for the

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last several years and have nephews and nieces who are near and dear to my heart, the reports of children suffering cut me to the core. Recently, a missionary requested prayer for the people in his area because two children had been kidnapped. One of the children was eventually found murdered, but the other is still missing. The abductions have been rumored to be associated with voodoo. Voodoo priests are hired to make sacrifices on the behalf of those who desire to gain or remain in a political office. Their insatiable thirst for money and power blinds them to the horror and devastation they leave in their wake. In another instance, a child did not come home, and her mother went to the school (which is near our compound) to find her. The staff initiated an extensive search of the school. The little girl was found stuffed in the toilet area of the bathroom, missing several organs. The school principal had harvested her organs for a voodoo sacrifice. Can you imagine entrusting your precious baby to the staff at a school, expecting them to protect and nurture your child, and having your trust betrayed by the very person who should have been enforcing that protection? This afternoon, we received a call from the mother of one of our students. She wanted to know if we had seen her

daughter, because she had not yet returned from school. My heart immediately dropped. Knowing children are kidnapped off the streets to be used in sacrifices and remembering the story about the girl whose organs had been harvested, I feared the worst. Thankfully, she had just stayed late at school and was fine. I don’t understand how anyone can look into the eyes of these priceless children and bring them harm. Friday, two three-year-old boys ran through the yard, chasing butterflies and laughing. Afterward, the class was treated to a children’s movie. They sang and danced with the music, exclaiming in awe at the pictures of sand castles, beaches,

swimming pools and surfers. One boy, who rarely speaks, was bouncing in his seat saying, “cheval, cheval” (horse, horse) when a horse and buggy came on the screen. It is heartbreaking to think that it won’t be long before that pure joy and innocence that radiates from them will be stripped away by the violence around them. I have been so impressed with New Hope Mission Haiti, as well as Pastor Emile and his family. The compound is like an oasis in a desert of despair. Entering the gates and seeing the only grass for miles would be enough, but they have also been a beacon of hope and aide in troubled times. After the earthquake in 2010, Pastor Emile opened the compound and provided shelter for thousands of people who were without a place to go. Instead of violence and hate, New Hope Mission Haiti exhibits the peace and

brotherly love inherent in a family whose lives have been truly committed to Christ. They are trying to break down the traditions of a culture steeped in violence and show the Haitians there is a better way by providing a safe environment for learning, food for hungry children and a place of worship. My time here so far has been full of both blessing and heartache. Providing updates for those following the Mission or my personal Facebook page has been a task I take seriously, because it is easy to grow callous to the needs of others when you are living a life of plenty. These people need the love of Christ and a helping hand; I hope my time here allows me to provide them with both. Michelle Bonville is a kindergarten teacher from Hohenwald, Tennessee and is currently on a one year mission trip to teach in Haiti. To learn how you can help feed a child, at a cost of $2.25 per month, call General Assembly & Church of the First Born at 931-796-4368.

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25 .

Ornithology Report

Where Do Birds Go When It Rains?

comic strip I recently saw online pondered the question that sits up there in my title. It noted that people around the world ask this, wondering what the birds do during storms, and hoping that they are safe and dry. It’s By Bill Pulliam true, you often don’t see many birds out and about during heavy rain. So, where do they go? Like all wild animals, birds have adapted a variety of ways to

Hickman cOUnTY

Alan Potts

weather the weather. Many people think that birds have nests that they use all year for shelter and sleeping, like a rabbit uses its burrow. Indeed, some birds do have year-round shelters. Woodpeckers use tree cavities, as do some owls. Swifts sleep in chimneys, hollow trees and crevices in rocky cliffs all year. Our abundant neighborhood Carolina Wrens may use their scraggly dome-shaped nests all year for overnight shelter. Most birds, however, only use nests, birdhouses and tree cavities during the breeding season in spring and summer. These nests are used as places to hatch their eggs and shelter their babies. At the end

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CLAiMS: 1-800-836-6327 www.fbitn.com . 26

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of the summer when the babies are grown, the nests are abandoned. So, where do all these other birds go when it rains? For the most part, they go to the same places they go at night. These sheltering and sleeping places are generally known as “roosts.” Roosts need to serve a dual purpose – shelter from the elements, and protection from predators. Many times, the danger of predation wins out, and birds may roost fully exposed to the weather. So why would a bird choose to sit out in the open, in the dark of night or driving rain, and how can it possibly stay warm and dry there? The answer to this lies in one of the most complex and unusual structures found in nature: the feather. Every bird known to science has feathers, as did many of the ancient dinosaurs. If you have ever looked at a feather up close, you have seen how fascinating it is, with the hundreds of individual barbs branching from the shaft, the tiny hooks (barbules) that link them together, and the microscopic barbicels that hook the barbules together. The feather is very strong, yet virtually weightless. The feather is also an amazingly adaptable structure. The long, strong feathers of wings and tail, of course, make bird flight possible. But the lowly body feathers, contour feathers, are equally remarkable. They overlap each other like perfectly laid shingles; I’ve wondered if the original idea for the shingle roof was inspired by birds and their feathering. They are also made water-repellent by frequent application of oil from the sebaceous glands that sit at the base of all birds’ tails. When you see birds preening themselves, they are keeping themselves well oiled and neatly arrayed. These tightly shingled, meticulously oiled feathers provide all birds with an insulated windbreaker and raincoat. Birds shed water “like a duck’s back,” or a well-made roof. The feathers can also be pulled in tight and sleek against the body, or fluffed out full and puffy. This dramatically changes their insulating value. Fluffed, they are full of

heat-trapping air spaces; sleek, they are thin and heat conducting. So, a bird can change from a down parka to a lycra track suit, or back, in an instant. Being so well protected, most small birds in the rain will simply seek a spot where they are sheltered from view and perhaps buffered from the worst of the wind and rain. Hunkered down, they wait out the storm. When the rain ends, with a shake, a fluff and some quick preening, they are good as new. This is also why large birds are often seen roosting right out in the open. The predators they fear most are not other birds, but mammals. Raccoons, coyotes and bobcats would love to snatch a tasty goose or hawk for supper. So these birds sleep out in the middle of a pond, on top of a high snag or even on a sandbar surrounded by water. They are impervious to the wind and rain, and any approaching marauder would have to make a whole lot of splashing or shaking before it reached them. A few years back, we had a vivid demonstration of how immune birds can be to weather. We had some free-roaming chickens that liked to roost overnight on scaffolding that was under a gutter drip. One night, when we had freezing rain, in the morning the chickens were sitting happily in their roosts, seemingly unaware that they had ice crusted on their backs and icicles hanging from their tails! They got up and went about their business, with the ice chunks eventually falling off. The weatherproofing provided by feathers has also allowed birds to flourish in the cold oceans of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. The flightless penguins of Antarctica are well known. The similar (though only very distantly related) auks, murres and puffins of the north retain their abilities to fly. For these marine birds, as well as the many loons, grebes and diving ducks of freshwaters, feathers serve for more than just insulation. If you have ever been scuba diving, you will have used a “buoyancy compensator.” This is an inflatable vest which you pump up or deflate,

adjusting how much you sink or float in the water. Diving birds use their feathers as a “buoyancy compensator.” By adjusting how much air the feathers trap, they can make themselves bob like a cork or sink towards the bottom. When we were in Oregon last spring, we visited the Oregon Coast Aquarium. One of their exhibits is an impressive aviary of marine birds where you can watch the murres and guillemots swimming and feeding from underwater. When they dive to catch the small fish that they are fed, they are entirely wrapped in a glistening envelope of air. They become agile, fast-moving, bird-shaped, predatory air bubbles. Birds may often look small and vulnerable, but when it comes to weathering the storm, even a tiny hummingbird is far tougher than we are. Bill Pulliam got started in birdwatching by his junior high science teacher in 1974, and has been an avid birder ever since in 48 U.S. states and 7 foreign countries. He is currently the Tennessee editor for eBird, a online project that compiles millions of observations from tens of thousands of birders around the world.

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27 .

Garden of Giving

Cassandra Warner

iving opportunities abound in our lives. From the time we were born to the end of our garden paths, we are blessed by giving. I know you’ve all heard it said, “it’s more blessed to give than receive,” so no doubt, the garden and gardeners are covered up By Cassandra Warner in blessings! Besides the wonderful food that the garden

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provides, nourishing and sustaining us, there can be many other gifts that come out of the garden. Having a garden falls into the category of necessity. And to most gardeners, it is a labor of love. So to me, that is just a double blessing, doing something you love and having an opportunity to share. This time of year a whole lot of giving is going on. So maybe this is a good time to think about things that we may have in our gardens that can be used as special gifts, or of things we may want to add to our gardens for that purpose in the

future. Gifts From The Garden

First, there is the obvious gift of food. Who doesn’t need that? This may be something that can be fresh from the garden or something you make, like pickles, jams, jellies, chutney, relish, sauces or dehydrated foods. Items grown in the garden may be used to create gifts such as wreaths, dried flower arrangements, potpourri and fresh flowers. Herbs can be used in many ways to create wonderful gifts. From just a pretty container of

herb teas or dried herbs for cooking, to herb flavored vinegars, oils, breads or butters, herbs are great gifts. (I’m making your mouth water about now.) My favorite flowers for dried arrangements are roses, hydrangea, oregano flower, garlic and onion seed heads and the seed stalk of the yucca. Make some herb, stem fire starters with a new role for an old roll. Let me explain. You’ve probably heard of making a fire starter using a toilet tissue roll filled with dryer lint. I dry a lot of herbs, and once

Photo Cassandra Warner

you strip the leaves off the stems, you have a lot of stems. They smell really good also, just like the herb. So I wrap the tissue roll with twine used for baling hay, then I put the herb stems all around it tie a bow with more twine around the center of the roll to hold them on. They look pretty in a basket by the fireplace. Now, of course, we should also give thought to gifts for gardeners. Not everyone you know would appreciate a truck load of rich black top soil, mulch, chicken, cow or horse poop, but that’s what Tom, my husband, says he knows he can always get me that will make me happy. He says he can stick a bow on it and he doesn’t have to worry about size, shape, color or if its shiny enough. Sometimes though, he throws on a few special rocks to top it off. Oh, that’s even better! Who needs bows when you can have rocks, especially those little shiny ones he gives me. Easy shopping for him, and yes, I love those gifts! But just in case you need a few ideas, there are a multitude of things out there that gardeners are sure to love, from seeds, plants, pots, gloves, handy hand tools, pruners or a folding pruning saw for fruit trees and roses. For the rose gardener, give a pair of gloves with puncture proof gauntlets. Other perfect gifts include a garden apron, a garden tote bag, water resistant garden shoes and a hat, garden plant markers, tomato towers, bamboo stakes, trellises, garden signs, flags, lights and all kinds of garden art. Also consider a square foot raised gardening bed, a pocket hose and water cans. A garden washing and drying station, a bench and table, a fence, a wagon or wheelbarrow, a potting shed and a garden shed would also top most gardeners’ wish list.

Sunflower seed heads make a pretty anchor for pinecone garnishes and holiday decor.

Planting

As long as the ground is not frozen, you can plant trees and shrubs. Photo Cassandra Warner

Maintenance

Ready or not, winter is upon us. I prefer to get my garden all cleaned up before it is too frosty outside. However, I still have some clean up to finish. So if you need, as I do, to get out and get in the dirt before the ground freezes, just bundle up on a sunny day to get it done. Then maybe finish up with a

hot cup of herb tea (such as lemon balm, lemongrass, oregano, Echinacea or elderberry) to power up your immune system. *Get rid of any plant debris left. Remember to leave the seed heads on coneflowers, asters and black-eyed Susans to help feed the birds in the winter. *Add to the compost anything without pest or disease. *Pull out any winter weeds, add to compost, but take off all seed heads! *Give evergreens a good soaking if they are dry going into winter. *Put any garden beds to bed for the winter that don’t have a cover crop or winter crop. I loosen the soil in these beds with a hoe, add some compost and other amendments, such as lime, that might be needed, work them in and smooth the soil. Now cover this with whatever organic matter you have, such as straw, newspaper (with something on top of it), leaves or wood chips, 3-6 inches thick like a winter blanket. Then when winter comes to an end, pull back that mulch and you’ll find your soil is rich and crumbly. Some of that organic matter decayed over the winter, and the earthworms were busy aerating the soil with their tunnels and fertilizing it with their castings. It also helped to conserve soil moisture, prevent erosion and lessen frost penetration. So getting these things done now will actually help to get the garden going and planted earlier in the spring. *Mark where you planted perennials and bulbs. You think you will remember in the spring, but guess what, maybe not. It can be hard later on to remember just what’s where. *Mulch perennials and roses after the ground freezes.

Dried Roses

Let The Flower Power Show Begin

Beauty and vibrant color in flowers fill December with cheer. Look for plants like the poinsettia, amaryllis, cyclamen and Christmas cactus. They will put on a colorful show for months, and, in some casValiditymag.com

29 .

Top, Red Poinsettia, Below, White Poinsettia

Photo Cassandra Warner

es, years. I have several Christmas cacti that are over 15 years old and are still beauties. The poinsettia comes in a spectacular range of colors to enjoy. Place it in a bright spot away from drafts, water when the soil is dry, but not to the point of wilt. If your poinsettia comes with a foil wrap, remove it so it does not sit in water. The amaryllis I think is so elegant; I love it as a centerpiece. These are all easy care, and remember, the flowers’ power will give you lots of cheer and lift your mood. The Greatest Gift

Life is a gift, and there’s no greater gift than giving one’s life for another. I do think the garden helps us understand some of the wondrous miracles of that great gift. Hope you have a good, giving time in the garden.

Photo Cassandra Warner

Originally from Texas, Cassandra Warner is a transplant to the garden of Tennessee. Gardening has been one of her passions for forty years. “Gardening connects you to the miracle of life and provides healthy exercise and stress relief. Mine has been a learn as you grow school, and I plan to always ‘Keep it Growing’.”

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A Hug from Jesus

wo thousand years ago or so, a child was born in Bethlehem whose name was Jesus (Yeshua, in Hebrew). He was called the Son of God. He was both fully God and fully man, having been born of the Virgin Mary and conceived by the Holy Sprit. The opening words in By Charles E. John’s gospel Newbold, Jr. read, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made.” John 1:1-3. John proclaimed that, “the Word was God.” Paul, the apostle, described Christ Jesus this way. He, “being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men.” Philippians 2:5-7. As He grew, He increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men. Luke 2:52. He died on the cross, was buried, rose the third day, ascended into heaven and sits on the right hand of God, the Father. During His earthly ministry, Jesus told a Pharisee named Nicodemus that he had to be “born again.” John 3. We learn from Galatians 3:26 and 4:6 that when we are born again by grace through faith, we become the sons of God. Jesus was first born into the world. Then, He is born in us when we are born again from on high by the Holy Spirit. The same Holy Spirit that birthed Him, rebirthed us. The new birth works both ways. He is born into us, and we are born into Him. Jesus claimed that we are in Him and He is in us, just as He is in the Father. . 32

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John 14:20. Awesome! But don’t ask me how this works. We take it by faith, and we come to know it is true, because we find Him working in and through us. “The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children (sons) of God.” Romans 8:16. We just know! Additionally, “we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 3:18. Think about the numerous times we go through a checkout lane. How likely are we to give much thought that, as we go, we carry within us the very presence of the Almighty? Who can say what influence He may be having on others through us? We may need to tie a little ribbon on our thumb to remind us. Likewise, we are unlikely to give thought to the places and conditions into which we may drag Him. We trudge through life with an awareness of our own weaknesses and strengths, but with little awareness of His divine presence and power within us. If, indeed, Christ is in us, we are like little arks of His covenant, carrying about His Presence wherever we go. Let us live with that glorious awareness that He is in us and we are in Him! Ambassadors! May our words and actions be those of the living Christ within us. If, indeed, Christ is in you, the next time you give someone as simple a thing as a righteous hug, it will not just be you hugging. That person will get a loving hug from Jesus as well. Charles Elliott Newbold, Jr. has served as pastor, teacher and is an author calling forth Christians to live the laid-down life for Jesus Christ. He and his wife, Nancy McDonald Newbold, live in Knoxville, Tennessee, where Charles continues his writing.

Ask An Attorney

NEW LAWS ON CHILDREN, PARENTS AND THEIR CONFLICTS

t is depressing when a couple who once promised before God and the world to love each other forever end up battling in court, especially when the fight is over their children. Effective July 1 of this year, new laws went into effect which amend the “Bill of Rights” for parents. The new rules are intended to make parents “play fair and nice.” Everyone in the court system By Landis has seen parents use the children Turner to punish each other. When I began my practice, I saw fathers fail to pay child support because “she won’t spend it on the child” or “she’ll just waste the money. I’d rather buy what Susie needs and give it to her myself.” We don’t hear that much anymore, because child support laws are stronger. But in many cases, parents act ugly. They may refuse or pointlessly limit the non-custodial parent’s telephone calls with the child; intercept and “lose” mail, delay and censor it; try to turn the child against the other parent by criticizing him or involving the child in court proceedings where he will hear harsh things said about his father or mother. Sometimes parents refuse to keep the other parent informed about the children’s whereabouts and activities, fail to let them know about extracurricular activities so they don’t have to interact with the other parent and deny them the right to know about and see important events in the child’s life. Some obstruct access to the children or information about them because it angers the other parent and gives them more control. The new law increases the power of courts to sanction such

The non-possessory parent’s rights to access information about and participate in the child’s education are equal to those of the custodial parent. The custodial parent has all these rights when the child is visiting the other parent or their family. Of course, in proper cases, a court may deny or restrict a parent’s rights for just cause. In writing this column, I am greatly indebted to Siew-Ling Shea Esq. with the Nashville law firm of Rogers, Kamm & Shea. Her article entitled “New Statutory Parental Rights” in the November TBA Journal provided much of the material summarized. Judge James G. Martin III, whose district covers Lewis, Perry Hickman and Williamson Counties, was largely responsible for these improvements in the law of parental rights. He saw the need and brought it to the attention of the Tennessee Bar Association. Its Family Law Section recommended changes to improve the statute.

give legal advice on any reader’s personal situation. The law is not a one-size-fits-all hat. Consult a lawyer of your choice. Landis Turner is a graduate of the University of the SouthSewanee and Vanderbilt University School of Law. He is a former president of the Tennessee Bar Association.

bad behavior. A contempt of court may mean a $50 fine and/or ten days in jail. And it may entitle the mistreated parent to damages and attorney fees. Each parent now has the right to unimpeded telephone conservations at least twice a week at reasonable times and for reasonable In Print & Online durations. The number where the For info call: child may be reached must be provided. The mean practice of using 931-628-6039 unlisted numbers to impede access or email: to the child will no longer be tolerinfo@validitymag.com ated. Parents may send mail to the Be Social! Look Us Up! child which shall not be destroyed, defaced, delayed, opened or censored. Presents must be delivered to children when received. As soon as practicable, or in This column discusses legal issues any event within 24 hours, notice of general interest and does not must be given of hospitalization, serious illness, injury or death of the child. Health care providers must be given information about how to contact the non-custodial parent. Non-custodial parents have the same rights to information from the school which possessory parents have. Each parent has the right to information about the medical condition and treatment of the children and copies of records, directly from the health care providers. Every parent has the right to be free of derogatory comments about him or her or their family in presence of child. A parent must be advised by the other parent 48 hours in advance of any extracurricular activities and be advised of the person who schedules the event so they may make plans to attend. A parent has the right to re931-796-5936 ceive an itinerary whenever the 435 East Main • Hohenwald, TN 38462 child leaves the state for 48 hours or more, together with dates of departure and return, destination and telephone numbers where child may be reached. Validitymag.com 33 .

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Cerebral Meanderings

God Schmod S

earching for love, the young man scoffed when it was suggested that Becky Jane By Shane Newbold and I were meant to be life partners. Divine intervention must have created the circumstances for our meeting in a fleeting moment in eternity. But more importantly, how easily we may have missed each other if God had not ordained our union. We both were waiting for the right person. The skeptical fellow’s response to the counsel of being patient and letting God drop “Mrs. Perfect” from heaven was “God Schmod.” Fortunately for you, dear followers, the cerebral meandering machine is a perpetual labyrinth of enlightenment. So, I thought,

Schmod is God’s alter ego. And if God begot Jesus, Schmod spawned Schmesus. In a moment of cynicism, “Jesus Schmesus” or “God Schmod” could be utilized. Either one will make the point for a “doubting Thomas.” Scenarios follow that possibly represent the differences between the supernatural alter egos. God created the heavens and the earth. Schmod, I assume, created nothing. God lay me down beside green pasture. Schmod lay me in the thorns. God wants us to abide by the Ten Commandments. Schmod encourages us to break them. Jesus turns the other cheek. Schmesus bloodies the nose of the dude who slaps him. Jesus turns water into wine. Schmesus turns water into Bud Light. Jesus would take the twenty dollar bill someone lost, make it

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Name: ________________________________________ Street/Box#: ___________________________________ City: ____________________ State: ____ Zip: ________ Phone: _______________ Email: _____________________ into a forty dollar bill and return it. Schmesus covers it with his shoe, waits until no one is looking, grabs it and buys a new pocketknife. Jesus would jump in front of the bus to save your life by giving up his own. Schmesus would throw you under the bus. God offers eternal life. Schmod provides decomposition in a box six feet under. Jesus exhorts the prostitute who has confessed her transgression to

go and sin no more. Schmesus recruits her to his brothel. Jesus challenges the men who “have no sin” to cast the first stone at the harlot. Schmesus hurls the first stone. My prayers are simpler now, “God, if it is your will for me, then open the door wide. If not, then keep it tightly locked, so through it I may not pass.” Life is complicated. Acknowledging greater powers at work in one’s life simplifies the journey. And God is willing to work with dimwits. Schmod is pseudo God and offers no grace and favor. So why do we settle on a lower standard than God’s blessing in our life? Beats the bajesus out of me (sorry, couldn’t resist using another derisive Jesus term). But, is that not what we do, mock the source of all good things? My young friend may dismiss the concept of “what God has brought together...” And many couplings are the result of a notion that God is no more significant than Schmod. If you discover, by some odd, divine revelation, that your mate is way out of your league, beyond what you deserve, thank God. It probably was not Schmod. Father to four and best friend to Becky Jane for 26 years, Shane Newbold lives life to the fullest birdwatching, fishing, motorcycling and enjoying his family.

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