serving athens and the tennessee valley

January 15, 2021FREE

T H E VA L L E Y

STARSERVING ATHENS AND THE TENNESSEE VALLEY

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Snowman is complete.

Covid 19 took away three of our most precious citizens last month all of which

battled the dreaded virus for weeks.We will never forget our precious “Bubblegum Man” Hugo Bates, “Bama” Zack Greene and local pastor Dwight Posey.Hugo BatesKnown for his seemingly endless supply of Bazooka, Bates gave much more than bubble gum to Limestone County citizens. He was a big supporter of the city and county and helped wherever he could such as those who attended athletic events, band camps, school board meetings and other community activities.

Here’s what some told The News Courier over the years about him:- Janet Latham, former Athens golf and volleyball coach who in 2014 said Mr. Bates had been around Athens programs longer than al-most anyone at the school.- Former Athens softball coach Randy White in 1999 said that he had never seen Bates in a bad mood; rather, he was always happy and acted like he was on top of the world.Mr. Bates retired from 3M after 30 years, and moved to Athens after marrying his wife, Billie, who he met at Sunny Hill Church of Christ. The couple had three children, Su-zanne, June and Houston, who all graduated from Athens High.Bates was a member of the Lime-stone County Sports Hall of Fame. He was not inducted because of his

athletic ability, but because of what he meant to local schools’ athletic programs, especially Athens High School.Hugo Bates was a friend of mine. I never passed him on the street or saw him at a ball game when he didn’t have a piece of that bubble-gum waiting for me. He always had a smile on his face and loved life.I also remember him because he owned the farm in Happy Hollow just north of Elkmont where my daddy grew up as a child. The old home place where daddy was born was still standing a few months ago.Mr. Bates called me a few years ago to tell me that one of the old beech trees on his farm still con-tained the names of daddy and his brothers etched in it. He said that was back in the 1920’s and that he would never, ever give up that tree.He will be missed.“Bama Zack” GreeneHarold Anthony “Bama Zack” Greene, was 57 when he died from Covid at Huntsville Hospital.He was a character. You will nev-er know another supporter of Ala-bama Crimson Tide football more than him. He loved wearing his Bama red and white and loved to talk about Alabama football. He

was often seen on local television on the Jamie Cooper Show.Pallbearers were Clint Legg, Jeff Pugh, Jay Vassar, Todd Tomerlin, Garth Gar-ris and Jeff Scott. Cousins were hon-orary pallbearers.Mr. Green was a member of Locks Cross Roads Church of Christ.

Dwight PoseyMr. Posey, 70, was a private investigator in Limestone County. He owned and operated Intech Investigations and was the pastor at a Limestone County Church for years. He once ran for sheriff of Limestone County and attended Clements High School back in the day. Dwight was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He and wife Priscilla Turner Posey enjoyed their life together and will always be remembered.

THE SONNY SIDE by Sonny Turner

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Covid took away some good friends

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Limestone County resident Jay Looney and his son, Bryson, were among those

who attended the national championship game Monday night night in Miami.“In 2017 I took Bryson to Tampa to watch the Natty against Clemson only to get to the gate of the stadium and realize we had been scammed,” Looney said. “It was tough watching your 11-year-old completely crushed because we couldn’t get into the game. I told him then, that I would try to get us back if we ever had

another opportunity. Last night...mission accomplished!! He was so ecstatic! It was awesome being able to experience it with him,” Looney said on Facebook after the game with photographs of the two at the game.Looney is an Alfa Insurance agent in Athens. The Looneys are two of just a few thousand people who attended the game in Hard Rock Stadium.Alabama won 52-24 to make the trip even more special for Jay and Bryson.

A promise he was able to keep


Mimi having a snowball battle.

Scenic snow scene.

Sled ride across the snow

Stephanie Chandler and kids enjoying their 2021 snow.

Horses and dog overlooking the snow.

Let it snow let it snowBy Danny Johnson

Staff Wrter

That magic time of the year when you awake one morning and a snow blankets the ground.

Monday of this past week was one of those special times. My wife has always loved snow and gets excited and can’t wait till she can get out and play. The grandkids came over and my front yard turned into a winter wonderland. The fi rst plan was to build a snowman out of the white stuff. The snow was sticky and was easy to roll in a ball for the snowman. During the building of the snowman a snowball battle broke out.Snowballs were coming from everywhere. The grandkids were pelting me. They were having so much fun. We refocused and got back to building the snowman.

We got the snow sled was out of the attic. The snow was not very deep and the sled bogged down. The ATV was brought out and served to pull the sled across the snow. The kids piled on the sled and had a ball riding over the snow packed in the front yard.When I was a kid another favorite thing to do was making snow cream. But today, with the pollution in the atmosphere I don’t recommend that. When we receive a big snow and the roads are closed due to hazardous driving conditions the quietness is eerie. Remember the birds when the ground is covered with snow. I have a bird feeder that stays covered up by birds when there is a snow covering the ground. Hope you enjoyed the snow we had on Monday like my family did.


Stress is a reaction to a situ-ation where a person feels threatened or anxious.

Learning healthy ways to cope and getting the right care and support can help reduce stress-ful feelings and symptoms. When stress creeps into my family’s life, we choose to search the scripture and follow God’s plan on how to cope with the stresses of life. Stress can come from anywhere, at any time. Work, family, school, relationship just about anything can be a source of anxiety in your daily life. And now that you are liv-ing in a time of uncertainty due to Coronavirus-related restrictions, the stress might seem even more overwhelming. Some may turn to medicine, therapy, or meditation to help ease their fears or stress, but many pray to God and read the Bible to ease their anxiety, es-pecially during these tough times. With these Bible verses about stress, you can be reminded that the Lord is always watching over you, and if you just ask for help He is there to give it.My grandmother recently passed away from COVID, and both of my parents are positive for COVID at this time. Families deal with so many challenges that begs the questions: What are some healthy ways to cope with stress; How are families handling the stress; and What are some Bible verses and tips to handle stress?The fi rst question what are some healthy ways/tips to handle stress?• Take care of yourself. Eat healthy, exercise, get plenty of sleep, and give yourself a break if you feel stressed out.• Talk to others. Share your problems and how you are feeling and coping with a parent, friend, counselor, doctor, or preacher. • Take a break. If news events are causing your stress, take a break

from listening or watching the news.• Recognize when you need more help. If problems continue or you are having more stress, talk to a psychologist, social worker, professional counselor, trusted friend, or a church employee. The second question how are fam-ilies handling stress? Spend time with a friend or family member who will listen to you. It is a natural way to calm you and lower your stress. When you connect with people in person, your body releases a hor-mone that stops your fi ght-or-fl ight response. You relax.Your family can take a trip. This does not have to be an expensive trip whatsoever, in face, the trip does not have to be costly. Maybe your family wants to go fi shing, take a hike in the woods, or just sit on a creek bank and relax with your family.

The fi nal question what are some Bible verses to help with stress? James 1: 2-4“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.

Let perseverance fi nish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”My family clings to scripture to learn God’s plan in dealing with stress. In James, it says to con-sider it a joy when you face vari-ous trials because the testing of your faith produces persever-ance. Think back to the various trials that Job faced during hislife. By trusting God and relying on scripture during stressful times,Job was able to defeat stress andimprove his faith in God. The Good News if you use prayer as a means for comfort, God will provide you with peace of mind. Be sure to thank Him once yourworries subside.To conclude, we do live in unprec-edented times in a world full of stress. God has provided an av-enue or path to help handle the stresses of life. We must continue to put our trust and faith in Him and not this world that we live in. This too shall pass, and theLord has overcome the world. As Philippians 4:6 says, we shouldnot be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and suppli-cation with thanksgiving let yourrequests be made know to God. Itis our prayer God for to help us during the times of stress. Let go and let God!

Stress - Let Go and Let GodCHARACTER COUNTS by Phillip Jarmon


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Cold water crappie fi shing can produce big results. Crappie bunch up in tight schools

when the water temperature drops into the low 40’s. Structure located in deep water is the fi rst place to look for a school of crappie. The electronics today can paint a good picture of fi sh holding on tree tops and underwater wood.Crappie bite good in cold water either on live bait or small plastic lures. Light line is recommended to allow small jigs to fall slow, drawing a strike. Six-pound fl uorocarbon and a 1/32-ounce jig head works great. You need a calm day with little wind and light river current to get the bait down. Keeping contact with the offering is a must. The strikes are often light. Most of the time you pick up on the rod and the fi sh will be already hooked.The monkey milk color is a great choice in clear water. When the water is muddy stay at home by the fi re. Cold, muddy water is a fi sherman’s nightmare.Spider fi shing is another method where several poles are drifted from the boat at the same time. The fi sherman dials in his trolling motor at a desired speed and covers a lot of water. The creek channels in Limestone Creek and Anderson Creek are choice locations for spider fi shing. Crappie will move from the river channel in early spring into the mouth of creeks and bays staging for pre-spawn. Some years the crappie fi shing is good and some years it’s not so good. Crappie cycle from one year to the next. I have been told by crappie fi shermen from the past that a good year when there are plenty of crappie they eat a lot of the newly hatched fry. This will reduce the population of crappie the next couple of years. Lots of creeks and backwater have silted in and no longer are good for

crappie fi shing. Swan Creek and Beula Bay and Mud Creek were great for crappie fi shing years ago. Fishermen could wade-fi sh and catch a good creel of crappie in the spring. Stumps from the TVA cutting of trees when the lake was built served for fi sh structure, but now have rotted out. The slick mud bottom won’t hold fi sh. Over the past couple of years, eelgrass has claimed many acres of Wheeler Lake. I have yet to see any benefi t to fi sh population from the eelgrass. I hope the fi sh can have improved spawn survival rate due to the eelgrass cover. Wheeler Lake was constructed in the early 30’s. The lake has seen many changes over the years. Water pollution has been determined by testing over the past few years. I’m

sure the ecosystem has suffered from the unclean water.As fi shermen, we need to never discharge any litter into our waterways. Old fi shing line should be discarded properly. The

4-cycle boat motors contribute to improved water quality. As outdoor sportsmen we need to leave theland, rivers, and creeks in goodcondition for the next generations.

Outdoor writer Danny Johnson with a couple slab crappie

Winter crappie fi shing

We often bought dry goods from a store located in Bethel, TN. It was just a

short drive from Gourdsville.A county road from Gourdsville to Bethel crossed Shoal Creek and was a convenient drive for folks who lived in the Gaston and Gardner Hollow. The road has been closed and the public no longer has access to the county road.One day Humpy and I were at Bethel where we saw a big building going up. Humpy pulled the truckover and got out asking, “What you boys building?” One of the builders spoke up and said, “We are building a skating rink.” We never had heard of a skating rink and didn’t have a clue what they were talking about.Humpy asked, “What is a skating rink?” One of the boys spoke up and said, “You put on boots that have wheels on the bottom and go around in a big circle.” We had never seen any type of shoes with wheels on the bottom. Humpy thought a few minutes then asked, “ Is it hard to walk around with wheels on the bottom of your shoes?” The guys building starting laughing and said, “You don’t walk around, you roll around in a big circle and it’s a lot of fun. The skating rink will be open in a couple of months. Y’all will have to come and see for yourself. It is a great place for young folks to meet new friends.”The fi rst Saturday night the skating rink was open, we put on our best clothes and drove to Bethel. Cars were parked everywhere and there were a lot of folks showed up for the opening. We opened

the door and walked in. Music was playing and folks were rolling in a big circle wearing the shoes with wheels. Some people had gotten turned around and were going backwards.An employee behind a counter asked if we wanted to rent some skates. Dalton said, “Yes, I weara size 10.” We put on the roller shoes, and it was hard to stand or get around. Humpy fell to the fl oorand couldn’t get up. We were trying to pull Humpy back to his feet, then we all fell to the fl oor. We made it to a rail and got upright. Folks had begun to laugh at us. A nice girl asked me if I need help learning how to skate. I replied, “I sure do.” She took my hand and helped me balance and we skated slowly around the circle. Other folks joined in and helped us learn the basics of roller-skating. Humpy took to skating like a duck to water. By the end of the night he was skating good, weaving in

and out of the crowd of skaters.A big mirror ball was hanging in the center of the skating rink.

The lights were turned down anda spot light shined on the mirror ball as it rotated. As we skated in the dark, I was getting motion sick. I had to take a break and gooutside for some fresh air. The boys of the hollow became good skaters and heard of askating rink at Hatfi eld Lake in Athens. The skating rink was a great place to meet folks. You could get hot dogs or popcorn and cokes at the concession stand. Roller-skating became a big part of our social life on Saturdaynights. We would go skating earlyin the night and later drive overand watch a movie at the drive-in. As we went in the drive-in movie, we had to open the trunk to make sure nobody was sneaking in. Lifewas fun back in the good ole days.

They called it roller skatingUNCLE BONDEE’S ADVENTURES by Uncle Bondee



Rustic coffee table

How to make a paper pinwheel

By Danny JohnsonStaff Writer

The project I have been working on lately is a coffee table. We had a sunroom that

was in need of a good strong table for storming oranges and apples on. The sunroom stays cool, but fruit won’t freeze in there. I like to recycle material when building projects. I had a box of laminate fl ooring left over from a fl oor job a couple of years back. The laminate wood would make a great table top and it’s stained and fi nished already.I found a piece of 1.5-inch angle iron to use for the top railing and twisted ½ square would serve as the legs for the table. Heating the steel and shaping the feet on the table legs was the most labor-intensive part of the project.

After welding the frame of the table together, the table was taking on a resemblance of a table. I secured a piece of fi berboard for the top. The laminate wood was glued on top of the fi berboard. This would make a pretty top that was semi-water resistance. After the top was glued down I checked out the strength of the coffee table. This was one strong table supporting well over 200 pounds. It’s a pleasure to make your own items you may need around the house. No tax or shipping charges.It sure beats products made out of plastic that will fail in a few years. This table can be passed through generations.

Paper pinwheels are a versatile craft that is easy enough for children to make with little

supervision and lovely enough to add whimsy to any event with DIY decor. This original fi dget spinner can be made with any type of paper you have available.Paper pinwheels are a great way for budding scientists to test and explore the power of breath and air! The stronger your breath, the faster they will spin. As a parent/educator, allow these pinwheels to provide STEM support while you talk to kids about wind turbines, windmills, and renewable energy. WHAT YOU WILL NEED:Equipment / ToolsScissorsPencilRuler (optional)MATERIALS:1 piece Square-shaped paper1 Straw1 PushpinMasking tapeDRAW LINESUsing a ruler, mark the center of your square paper with a pencil.

If you do not have a ruler, eyeball the center point. Next use your ruler to draw a diagonal line from each corner of the paper, halfway to the center dot you just made.TIP: If you are using printed paper where one side is white and the other has a pattern, make sure you draw the lines on the white side of the paper.CUT DOWN THE LINESUse the scissors to cut down the diagonal lines that you just marked on your paper.FOLD AND PINFold every other point into the center dot and put a pushpin through the paper. This step can be tricky because the points like to escape if you are not holding them tight, so patience is key.ATTACH TO STRAWHold the pushpin with gathered points in one hand tightly and use your other hand to push the remainder of the pin through a straw. We used paper craft straws for these pinwheels but you could also attach your pinwheel to a plastic straw or a pencil. Once

your pushpin is through the straw, use a little bit of masking tape

to make sure no little fi ngers get stuck by the pin.

Note : Meta l work can be a hazard and proper t ra in ing and sa fe ty gear is a requ i rement . When heat is used , a threa t o f

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DEB’S Delights

2 cups diced cooked chicken1 (10-3/4oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup2 celery ribs, fi nely chopped1/2 cup mayonnaise1 (4 oz) can mushroom stems and pieces, drained (optional)2 Tbsp fi nely chopped onion1/2 cup crushed butter-fl avored crackers1/2 cup crushed potato chips1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted

In a large bowl, combine the chicken, soup, celery, mayonnaise, mushrooms, and onion. Stir in cracker crumbs. Spoon into a greased 1-1/2 qt. baking dish. Bake uncovered at 375 degrees for 15 minutes.

Sprinkle with potato chips and almonds. Bake an additional 15 minutes or until bubbly and lightly browned. Yields 4 servings.

by Debra Johnson

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Whether it is fi shing for sport or just for fun, fi shing enthusiasts can

fi nd world-class lake fi shing on Wheeler Lake in Decatur. The lake offers more than 1,000 miles of shoreline and over 67,000 acres of water surface, and is quickly earning the reputation as one of the best fi shing destinations for catfi sh in the United States, thanks in part to the mammoth-sized creatures that everyday anglers are reeling in. Wheeler Lake is part of the Tennessee River which fl ows for more than 650 miles through seven states. The Tennessee River and its impoundments are excellent for targeting catfi sh, especially blue and channel catfi sh with 20- to 40-pounders very common and chances at fi sh into the 100-pound range. While Decatur and the north Alabama area provide year-round opportunity, the late-fall-into-winter bite can be prime for big fi sh.Wheeler Lake at one time held the world record for the largest blue catfi sh. Pulled from the water of Wheeler Lake on July 5, 1996, the mammoth-sized fi sh weighed in at 111 pounds.The dream to catch a triple-digit fi sh has caught the attention of the largest catfi sh tournament organization in the United States.

The Cabela’s King Kat Tournament Trail was created to give the growing number of catfi sh anglers, clubs and organizations an opportunity to shine in the spotlight with the fi rst-ever “Classic” of competitive catfi sh angling. This format has revolutionized the catfi sh angling market, allowing local anglers in each region the opportunity to compete in the Super Bowl of Cat Fishing, the Cabela’s King Kat Classic held in the fall each year. Wheeler Lake will host the Cabela’s King Kat Tournament Trail June 25-26, 2021. For more information, visit https://www.kingkatusa.com/tournament_trail.cfm. During a tournament on Wheeler Lake in March 2019, a blue catfi sh weighing in at 115 pounds was brought to the scales. It was the largest catfi sh ever caught in a Cabela’s King Kat tournament

anywhere in the United States. Despite the weight, the team still ended up in second place. Catfi shing is also very family-friendly and something children of all ages can experience. In fact, anglers do not need a boat or extravagant equipment to be successful. Some of the region’s

best catfi shing is accessible from the bank. To assist anglers fi shing on Wheeler Lake, the TVA Lake Infoapp is an essential tool for every tackle box. The app gives usersthe ability to monitor real-timegeneration and water levels on all TVA reservoirs. The app is available for iPhone and Android users—6.0 and newer. For anglers that are less tech savvy, the sameinformation can be found online by visiting https://www.tva.gov/Environment/Lake-Levels.

For more information on fi shing and Wheeler Lake, visit https://

www.decaturcvb.org/things-to-do/activities/outdoors/

fi shing-boating/ or https://www.outdooralabama.com/reservoirs/

wheeler-reservoir.

The dream of catching abig fi sh on Wheeler Lake

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Vintage Pictures

L&S food market being torn down. The business was opened around 1954 and was destroyed by fi re in 1970 and rebuilt.

Gristmill 1907 located in the Oliver community Lauderdale County

Tanner class of 1952 10-year class reunion

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The AMC Hornet is a compact, manufactured and marketed by American Motors

Corporation (AMC) in a single generation from model years 1970 through 1977 — in sedan, wagon, and hatchback coupe. The Hornet became an important vehicle and platform for AMC, serving the company in one form or another for eighteen years, until the 1988 model year. Prices began at $2,298 for the base model two-door sedan in 1974 with the more popular new hatchback going for $2,449.Engines incorporated new emissions controls and the choices on all Hornets included two I6s, the standard 232 cu in (3.8 L) or a 258 cu in (4.2 L) version, as well as two V8s, the base 304 cu in (5.0 L) or the 175 hp 360 cu in (5.9 L). Demand for muscle cars had

disappeared by 1973, but the Hornet was a relatively light car. A Hornet hatchback with the 360 V8 was tested by Car and Driver. The 0-60 time was 8.4 seconds.

The optional SC/360 package came the engine, hood scoop, special upholstery and wheels, and a stripe that ran along the fender and door tops and around

the rear window.The car is perhaps bestremembered for the barrel rollstunt in the James Bond movie‘The Man with the Golden Gun.’

1974 AMC Hornet X Hatchback


SEARCHING FOR TRUTH

Thanks to the coronavirus, life as we know is has changed dramatically. Our kids are

doing a hybrid style of learning, we have to grocery shop a certain way (or maybe even have groceries delivered), we have to eat out a certain way, our jobs are dealing with new safety guidelines, and we are even worshiping in new ways. The congregation where I preach has been split in two services for the better part of a year now. We’ve done our Bible classes online and there was even a short period of time where we even did our Sunday worship services online. How are we supposed to fellowship together as a church family with all these new virtual regulations? Worship as we know it has changed. In a recent survey taken by Pew Research Center, they found that about 90% of Christians who recently participated in online worship services were satisfi ed with their experiences. Fifty-four percent of the viewers were “very” satisfi ed with their experience, while 37% were “somewhat” satisfi ed. Only 8% said they were “not to” or “not at all” satisfi ed

with online worship. People have grown accustomed to staying at home instead of going to worship. People like staying in their

pajamas and drinking their coffee while they watch online services from the comfort of their own couch. There is a growing concern that Covid has affected the landscape of our churches and how we worship. While, I do believe that our worship and churches have been changed forever, I am not concerned for the future of the church. Here are a few reasons why:1. The church belongs to Christ and He remains powerful enough to withstand the Devil, let alone this pandemic. The church has lasted through wars, pandemics, dictators, persecutions, etc.2. Even if 90% of Christians were satisfi ed with their virtual experience, only 2% said they would continue to make it their normal way of worship even after things get back to normal. 3. People need social interaction from the church. God designed his church to be a place of comfort and joy. Fellowship is one of the fundamental building blocks of the local church…and you can’t get that through a computer screen.

Wherever you worship, don’t fall into the trap that this will never happen to your congregation. The Devil is after us all and he has used

Covid to his advantage. Reach out to the families who need help. Strengthen and encourage your elders and preacher. Continue teaching strong, Biblical doctrine.

Be strong and courageous. Oneday, Covid will be behind us. Makesure you can present yourself approved before God (2 Tim.2:15).

Satisfi ed with virtual worship? by Kevin Harrington,

Marion Street Chuch of Christ

Kevin Harrington

Evangelist - Kevin Harrington

124 N. Marion Street 256-232-1786

Website: www.marionstreet.org

MarionStreetServices

Sunday Morning 9 a.m. “At risk” service where masks

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Sunday Morning 10:15 a.m. Masks will be optional.

Livestream service will be at 10:15 on Facebook Live.

Sunday Night 5 p.m. Classes offered on Facebook Live.

Studies on the “Big Picture of the Bible.”

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HORSE SENSE

We all, speaking of horse owners, have probably heard people talking about

the human/horse relationship based on the predator/prey relationship. This idea has been out there in the horse world for as long as I can remember. And, if you are just now learning about Natural Horsemanship (the working/teaching of horses using their nature not ours) you have more than likely heard of it. The idea that horses, being prey animals, are afraid of predators in my opinion is not true. Horses recognize predation, not predators. Predation is the action or a predatory action. That is they don’t recognize a species as a predator, but they do recognize a behavior that is hunting, again, the predatory action. If we act like a predator then we must be a predator. The body language of an animal that is hunting is what sets off alarm bells in horses. To give you an example, zebras do not fear lions that are wandering around the herd. We’ve all seen the footage as the lion calmly walking into a herd of zebras and the zebra doesn’t have a fear.. But they do fear a lion when it is stalking a zebra. It is assuming the hunting posture, the predatory action that alerts a zebra, not the fact that a predatory species is in the vicinity, so horses don’t categorize the species, but rather the behavior of the species as friend or foe.One reason trying to catch a horse by sneaking, cornering, stalking and/or corralling doesn’t work very well. We are assuming the posture of the predator. We become the hunter..It is true that horses with little or no experience of humans are often fearful of people. But they are fearful of narrow spaces too. That does not mean they perceive the narrow space as a predator. Horses are fearful of the unknown.

But I don’t believe they view every unknown as a predator either.The horse understands to fear something or being if it acts aggressively toward it. To get along with the horse we must not act aggressively toward it.You see, there are many concepts about the prey/predator relationship out there. But the one I feel is the one to use is the ‘Act like a friend, not an enemy’. Don’t have an aggressive nature. Move softly and not quickly and not

slowly either as in sneaky. Don’tmove or act in a way that the horse would think we are the hunter.

Jim SwannerJim Swanner13124 Carter RoadAthens, AL 35611

www.JimSwanner.comwww.JimSwanner.comEnjoying Horses throughEnjoying Horses through

CommunicationCommunication256.874.6781256.874.6781

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Prey Predator Interaction by Jim Swanner


CALENDARCALENDARFree Christmas Tree Removal- JunkTruk Junk Removal is offering free curbside Christmas tree pickup in January. To be eligible, the residence must be in Limestone County, the tree must be real and no more than 10 ft. in height. The tree must be left at the curbside or at the end of the driveway for removal. For more information: bit.ly/JunkTrukChristmas-TreePickup.3rd Saturday of Each Month in 2021 - Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church’s food pantrywill be open 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. at 1911 Hine Street Athens. Patrons must provide proof of eligibility. Eligibility forms provided at distribution site. Must have a valid ID card or driver’s license. Only one distribution per household while supplies last. Monetary and food donations accepted. 256-

444-2628Each Tuesday and 1st Saturday of each month - Friends of the Athens-Limestone Public Library host a used book sale from 10:15 a.m. - 2:15 p.m. 603 S. Jefferson St. Athens. 256-232-1233.Jan 16, 2021 -- Chicken Stew with Piney Chapel Fire and Rescue(22115 Piney Chapel Road in Athens) starting at 10:00AM. Pre-order to ensure your Chicken Stew through a member of the Piney Chapel Fire & Rescue or by calling Assistant Chief Chris Teeples 256-998-0194. $25.00 per gallon, $15.00 per half gallon; and $8:00 per quart. Monies benefi t the department.Jan 18, 2021 -- Martin Luther King, Jr Day Observed -- -- local governments, area agencies, attractions, restaurants and shops

may be closed or have modifi ed hours of operation in observance of this holiday. Please call ahead to confi rm availability and hours. Jan 18, 2021 -- Swan Creek Wildlife Management Area Cleanup with Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful at Swan Creek WMA (Intersection of Harris Station and Lucas Ferry Roads in Tanner) from 10:00AM-2:15PM. You are encouraged to bring your own supplies if you’d like; however, there will be trash bags, litter grabbers, gloves, buckets, and safety vests available. Volunteers are encouraged to wear waterproof shoes/boots and work clothes. This event is outdoors, however, when in group settings masks and social distancing will be required. Please email [email protected] to register your attendance.

Jan 18, 2020 -- CANCELED -- Vietnam Veterans SpaghettiLunch (17915 W Elm St, Athens).inner is 11:00AM-2:00PM. Mealincludes Spaghetti, Texas toast,salad or coleslaw, dessert and a beverage for $8.00. Eat in or take out. All proceeds go to High School Scholarship. Delivery availablewithin the City Limits.Jan 18, 2020 -- CANCELED -- Vietnam Veterans SpaghettiDinner (17915 W Elm St, Athens).inner is 5:00PM-7:00PM. Mealincludes Spaghetti, Texas toast,salad or coleslaw, dessert anda beverage for $8.00. Eat in or take out. Shady Grady One Man Band performs at the dinner time. All proceeds go to High School Scholarship. Delivery availablewithin the City Limits.


January

Snow for the birds

A birdhouse west of Athens.


Preserving potatoesBy Debra Johnson

Staff Writer

We always have a good crop of potatoes each year. We store them on

elevated beds in the barn and sprinkle them with lime to keep them dry. When the weather gets colder, we cover them with hay to keep them from freezing.We have quite a few potatoes still in the barn so I wondered if I

could preserve them. I have never tried to freeze or can potatoes, but realized you could buy frozen potatoes as french fries, hash browns, etc. at the grocery store. So, I am trying my fi rst attempt at preserving the remaining potatoes that we have.The potatoes that have softened and begun to sprout are not good for freezing, so I cut off the sprouts and save them to plant in

the spring.Only use the potatoes that are still hard. I peel my potatoes and then decide how to cut them. You can dice them, put them in strips for fries, leave the small ones whole, or grate them for hash browns. Raw potatoes contain a lot of water and do not freeze well, so they must be blanched. The blanching process is used

on a lot of vegetables. I peel mypotatoes fi rst, then cut them into the size I want. Then, put them in a pot of boiling water for a fewminutes, and transfer quickly to a pan of ice cold water. When thepotatoes are cooled, place them on a towel and pat them dry. Place them singly on a baking sheet andput in the freezer for at least 6hours. When frozen, then place infreezer bags.

Potatoes in the barn with hay to keep from freezing.

Raw potatoes ready for blanching.

Potatoes placed on cookie sheet for freezing.

Sprouting potatoes to use in the spring. Frozen potatoes in freezer bag.


1806 Wilkinson Street Athens, AL 35611

256-242-1444 1-877-885-5592

Emergency Line:

256-216-8621

Alabama State Law requires you to call theAlabama One Call Center 48 hours prior to any

excavation, to have underground utilities located.

Athens Gas Department reminds you“MAKE EVERY DIG A SAFE DIG”

811 is the new nationalthree digit call number.

LIMESTONE DRUG LOCATED IN DOWNTOWN ATHENS ON THE SQUARE

CITY-WIDE DELIVERYOPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

HOURS: MONDAY-FRIDAY7:30AM-7:00PM

Our weekend hours have changedSATURDAY 7:30AM-2:00PM

SUNDAY 9:00AM-2:00PM256-232-3811

Placemaking projects provide interesting and inviting spac-es downtown to sit, gather,

and actively experience spaces. Athens Main Street is a believer in the importance of placemaking in downtown Athens. We have part-nered with several organizations, including The Exchange and High Cotton Arts, in short-term projects such as the creation of pop-up parks and window galleries.The next placemaking effort will be a long-term project. Athens Main Street is embarking on the revitalization of an alley central to downtown. The vision is to create a gathering spot for people of all ages to take advantage of the free Wi-Fi around The Square, provide more space for outdoor dining, al-low impromptu music performanc-es, and most importantly give vis-itors a place to engage with each other. This project will improve this alleyway in the heart of downtown Athens, between 107 N. Jefferson St. and 105 N. Jefferson St. The

alley connects North Jefferson Street with public parking on Mar-ket and Madison streets.Specifi cally, Athens Main Street will create a series of murals -- works of art that will engage in a multitude of ways, tell a story and enhance our identity.Currently, the alley is owned by

Derrick Young, owner of UG White. Young has long been a strong sup-porter of downtown revitalization and growth. Young plans to work with the team on this project.When asked about the project, Young stated, “Bringing this alley to life and making it a place to enjoy for all our community will

be a real pleasure. In naming thealley ‘Merchants Alley,’ we want-ed to give a nod of respect to allthe hardworking business ownersthat came before and those whocurrently call The Square home.Without them and their commit-ment to downtown, the heart ofour community would not beat asstrong.”The project is made possiblethrough public/private partner-ships of donated funds and in-kinddonations from many sources.Athens Main Street extends a spe-cial thank-you to Alabama Moun-tains, Rivers and Valleys Council;Athens Rotary Club; LimestoneArea Community Foundation;DEKKO Foundation; Athens-Lime-stone Beautifi cation Board; theMayor’s Youth Commission; and anumber of private donors.Planning and design began inSeptember of 2020. The project isdue to be completed in early sum-mer 2021.

Merchants Alley Revitalization Project

Athens Main Street Executive Director Tere Richardson (podi-um) along with the Merchants’ Alley project team, local elected offi cials, and Main Street Board Members announce the Mer-chants’ Alley project in downtown Athens.


“Real Solutions for Real Estate” • ALRealSolutions.com

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Ginna ChittamCorporate Broker

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256-771-3744

BreAnna KuykendallRealtor®

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Linda TooneAssociate Broker

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Leonel WhiteAssociate Broker

256-337-3165

Glynda WalkerRealtor®

256-431-1474

James PhillipsAssociate Broker/ Realtor®

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Licensed in Tennessee and Alabama

19155 Tammy Leigh DriveAthens - $360,00

MLS#1128396James Phillips, 256-656-2370

5 Bedroom, 4 bath, 3 car garage, and a private master suite on the fi rst level. Recently updated kitchen has stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops, and open fl oor plan overlooking the family room. Upstairs includes 2 bedrooms and 1 bath, huge bonus/game room, craft room and a fl oored attic storage.





16221 Kyle Morgan Drive - West Limestone - $219,000MLS#1153927 - Christie Bennett, 256-771-3744

Don’t miss this 3 bedroom, 2 bath home! Great location close to town. Awesome kitchen with upgraded appliances, enjoy your family and entertaining with open concept living area. Home has new carpet in bedrooms, fresh paint through out. One owner, great condition. Nice yard with new patio. Waiting on you to enjoy as much as the previous owner. Come see this great house!

16008 Wright Road - Clements - $189,900MLS#1170868 - Kim Shindorf, 256-431-7916

Great fi nd on 2.30 acres this home has so much to off er. The detached garage is a mechanics dream with air compressor through out and motor lift plus a half bath! Detached is 39X49. Mother in law suite is open living space with split unit and a 3/4 bath. Double carport awning 20X21. The house has a screened in back porch 13x25 with extra gas heat in wall in living and bath. Unique property with pear and pecan trees and beautiful farm land view front front of home. Small detached building with lots of storage 20X13 with electricity. HVAC still has warranty until 2022. Property has a storm shelter.

CONTINGENT!

CONTINGENT!

CONTINGENT!

CONTINGENT!303 Longview Street - Athens - $148,500

MLS#1770494 - Kim Shindorf, 256-431-7916Conveniently located to downtown Athens and Hwy 72 this home has many updates. New Luxury Plank Flooring through out, New Paint, Light Fixtures, Tile, Tile Backsplash, New Windows, New Siding and Soffi t and New Back Patio. This home off ers a sitting room off the patio that has lots of natural light. New Laundry with cabinetry and counter for work space. Lots of shade from Mature trees in the front.





21863 Williamsburg Drive - Athens - $179,900MLS#1155458 - Linda Toone, 256-777-1069

2 br, 2.1, baths, basement , 2 car garage, large deck, fi replace, all fl ooring new , new paint , new deck. Renovated Townhouse, Homeowners Association dues include Pool, Tennis Courts, Clubhouse and All Exterior Maintenance. Great Location. Large Workshop/Storage in Garage. Each Bedroom has it’s own bath.

940 County Road 570 - Rogersville - $275,000MLS#1137152 - Glynda Walker, 256-431-1474

BOAT HOUSE!! ANDERSON CREEK!!Basement home with boat house for two boats and electric lift. Enjoy the view of the water off one of two decks. Home has new 30year architectural shingle roof, HVAC 2019, New windows through out, New Storm Doors and 3 year old hot water heater. Home features 2 gas fi replaces, wood beams, and wood staircase to basement. Massive storage. never worry abut the electricity with a generator backup. Indoor workshop with gas heater and concrete fl oors. Electricity all around decks. Washer and Dryer to remain. TV in basement to stay. Main kitchen on 1st fl oor with bar that sits 4 and a kitchen in basement . Lots of windows and natural light.

302 Suffi eld Street - Athens - $179,900MLS#1157245 - Ginna Chittam, 256-777-3300

5 Bedroom, 4 bath, 3 car garage, and a private master suite on the fi rst level. Recently updated kitchen has stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops, and open fl oor plan overlooking the family room. Upstairs includes 2 bedrooms and 1 bath, huge bonus/game room, craft room and a fl oored attic storage.

PENDING!PENDING!

WATERFRONT!!

WATERFRONT!!CONTINGENT!

CONTINGENT!





403 Schilling Street - Athens - $129,000MLS#1154382 - Chris Shindorf, 256-206-2838

Convenient to downtown Athens, close to Hospital and shopping. Spacious kitchen with double oven. Some beautiful original hardwoods and coff ered ceiling in bedroom. Covered screened in back porch with grilling deck and fenced in back yard. Nicely shaded yard.

17477 Carillon Drive - Athens - $292,000MLS#1154781 - Kim Shindorf, 256-431+7916

Spectacular home in subdivision with scenic stocked community pond, pavillion, and inground pool. Walk into 14+ Ceilings in the greatroom, gas log fi replace, formal dining, heavy crown molding, trey ceilings, hardwood and tile fl ooring. Open fl oor plan with gourmet kitchen, lots of granite counter space, maple glazed cabinetry throughout. 4th bedroom upstairs can also be a rec room and has a full bath. Covered porch on back with a fenced in back yard.

CONTINGENT!

CONTINGENT!

PENDING!PENDING!

21873 Alabama Hwy 99 - Elkmont - $281,500MLS# 1771023 - Glynda Walker, 256-431-1474

Well Maintained home situated on 9.2 acres at Owens West. Walk into freshly painted walls, updated kitchen and bathrooms. Kitchen has granite and S/S Appliances. Treed lot with large front porch ready for a swing. Separate HVAC for Bonus Room. LVP Flooring throughout except Bedrooms. Wood burning fi replace in Living Room. Large Utility enough room for iron, hang cloths or even set up a craft area. Detached 30X25 garage. One acre of the land is directly across Hwy 99 in front of the home.





904 N Houston Street - Athens - $123,900MLS#1771186 - Linda Toone, 256-777-1069

3 bedrooms, 2 baths, completely remodeled, new appliances ,new fl oors ,new siding, new roof, 3 bedrooms 2 baths, new cabinets , new plumbing and electrical

401 S. Clinton Street - Athens - AuctionMLS#1771621 - Ginna Chitttam, 256-777-3300,

John Stewart Auctioneer, 256-431-7504“THIS BEAUTIFUL FEDERAL/GREEK REVIVAL BRICK HOME WAS BUILT IN THE EARLY 1800’S.” This Beautiful Historical Brick Home has plenty of Character and is undergoing a major renovation. The New Owner will have to fi nish the renovation and they will have one of the most beautiful homes in Athens, Al. This Home features 4 Bedrooms, Large Master Bedroom Suite W/Fireplace, Walk-In Closets, 5 Bath Rooms, Large Open Living Room W/Fireplace, Large Foyer W/ Beautiful Staircase, Dining Room, Kitchen, 3 Laundry Rooms, Breakfast Room, Media Room, Reading Room, Powder Room, Large Front Porch, 2 Side Porches, New Roof W/Architectural Shingles and Metal. Detached 2 Car Carport W/Studio Apartment or Man Cave.

23292 St. John Road - E. Limestone - $251,451MLS#1155645 - Paula Phillips, 256-777-4916

New home currently under construction in Lonnie Dale Subdivision, North AL’s Newest Farmhouse Community. This beautiful 1809 sf home boasts of 3 bedrooms, 2 baths. A magnifi cent kitchen with a huge pantry that opens up to a spacious living/dining area welcomes you into this charming Southern home. A spacious front porch with a side screened porch lets you enjoy outdoor living in comfort and style. Beautifully constructed as only CGS Construction, Lonnie Dale’s premiere builder, will do.PENDING!

PENDING!

PENDING!PENDING!

LAND LISTINGSREDUCED!! 4524 County Road 76 - Florence- $124,00 - MLS#1130310 - Kim Shindorf, 256-431-7916

Blue Springs Drive - Clements - $35,000 - MLS#1157502 - Ginna Chittam, 256-777-3300283 York Drive - Rogersville - $32,500 - MLS#1139427 - James Phillips, 256-656-2370

Blue Springs Circle - Clements - $35,000 - MLS#1157501 - Ginna Chittam, 256-777-3300

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