Athens MOVE - December 2014 - January 2015

ATH EN S

www.athensmove.com

Volume 4 Issue 6 + December 2014 - January 2015

FREE

Why I am a VEGETaRIaN

page 42

BE pREpaREd foR aNy WEaThER

page 20

TakE youR Road BIkE INsIdE

page 26

IN ThE sWIm of

ThINGs… foR a

LIfETImE!page 8

Award-winning Health Care

©2014 St. Mary’s

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america’s

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obstetricspatient experience

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Table of Contents

8 SPORTSFeaTuRe12 PicturePerfect14 Coach’sCorner16 TeamontheMOVe18 athleteontheMOVe19 adaptiveMOVeS

20 ReCReaTIONFeaTuRe24 StepsandStrides26 Spokes andSprockets28 PawstoPlay29 SeniorMOVeS

30 FaMILYFeaTuRe34 HealthyRecipes35 FamilyChallenge36 Kids'Tips37 BrainWaves38 NutritionTips

42 LIFeFeaTuRe46 MakingaDifference48 KidFiction50 InspiringMOVeS

Athens MOVetAble Of COntents

IncaseyouarenewtoathensMOVe,weareanorganization thathascreatedamagazine,digital magazine, website and social mediaresourcededicated togettingpeoplemovingand living healthier lives by increasing theirphysical activity and eating better. This is acollaborationof individualsandorganizationsthat share a common passion for improvingthelivesofourcitizensandcommunitythroughsports, recreation, fitness and wellnessprograms. With the support of our advisoryCouncil and community partners, we havebrought together our experience, expertise,andvoicestofocusonfourbasicgoals:

+ COMPELpeople to increase theirphysicalactivity and eat a more balanced diet ofnutritiousfoods.

+ EDUCATEthemaboutthemanydifferentwaysthattheycangetmovingandeatbetter.

+ INSPIREthemwithincrediblestoriesofpeoplewhoaremakinghealthychangesintheirlives.

+ CONNECTthemwithorganizations,facilities,andresourcesthatwillgetthemmovingandlivinghealthierlives.

athensMOVehasbeenstrivingtoachievethesegoalsforthreeyearsnowandbasedonallthegreatfeedbackwegetfromsomanypeople,wehavebeenmeetingthem.Yet,wecannotstopnow.Thereistoomuchtoshare,toomanystoriestotell,andtoomanypeoplewhoneedourhelptogetmovingandbeginlivinghealthierlives.

Oureditorial teamhasa lotofgreatarticles linedup for future issues,butwealwayswelcomesuggestionsoreditorialsubmissionsfromourreaders.Whetherit’satopicthatisimportanttoyou,aninspirationalstory,ormaybejustsomegreatphotos,[email protected].

Ofcourse,thisprojectwouldnotbepossiblewithoutthesupportofouradvertisersandsponsors.Pleaseshowyourappreciationbysupportingtheirbusinesses,andcontactusifyouhaveabusinessororganizationthatwouldliketoadvertiseinMOVe.

ATH EN S

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FREE

WHY I AM A VEGETARIAN

PAGE 42

BE PREPARED FOR ANY WEATHER

PAGE 20

TAKE YOUR ROADBIKE INSIDE

PAGE 26

IN THESWIM OF

THINGS…FOR A

LIFETIME!PAGE 8

Gary LeFeuvre executiveDirector

[email protected]

Marjie Foster editorialDirector

[email protected]

Ryan Litts CreativeDirector

[email protected]

Lindsey Ebert editorialIntern

[email protected]

Brandon Gates editorialassistant

[email protected]

Katie Atkinson DigitalMediaIntern

[email protected]

athensMOVeMagazineispublished6timesperyearbyGlobalMoveMedia,LLCP.O.BOX435,WaTKINSVILLe,[email protected]

Readercorrespondenceandeditorialsubmissionarewelcome.athensMOVereservestherighttoeditorrejectanymaterialcontributed.Noportionofthis

magazinemaybereproducedwithoutexpresswrittenconsentofthepublisher.athensMOVeMagazinereservestherighttorefuseanyadvertisingforanyreason.

Community WebsitePrint Magazines Digital Issue Social Media

Join Athens MOVE in the fightagainst childhood obesity!

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

With the help and support of our advisory council and community partners,

Athens MOVE is educating and inspiring over 28,000 families in the Athens area to increase

their physical activity and improve their diet. Through our school partnerships,

a copy of our Athens MOVE magazine is sent home to the family of every student from K-8 in all four of the county school districts plus most of the private schools.

To learn more about Athens MOVE, go to athensmove.com

How can you support the mission of MOVE? Here are some suggestions. Let us know which ones you would like to participate in.

• I will provide free copies of MOVE in our office.

• I will include a link to Athens MOVE on my website.

• I will include a link to the digital issues of Athens MOVE in my

eNewsletters or emails.

• Please contact me if you need a medical source to quote for an article in MOVE.

• I would like to submit an article(s) for consideration in MOVE.

• I would like to be contacted about running an ad/sponsorship in Athens MOVE.

Join the fi ght by fi lling out the form at http://bit.ly/PV3U8G3 Ways to

Join The Fight:Email:

[email protected]:

706.296.2996Or visit our online form at

http://bit.ly/PV3U8G

ATH EN S

www.athensmove.com


FREE

Why I am a VEGETaRIaN

page 42

BE pREpaREd foR aNy WEaThER

page 20

TakE youR Road BIkE INsIdE

page 26

IN ThE sWIm of

ThINGs… foR a

LIfETImE!page 8

Visit www.athensmove.com for our online

MOVE community … including access to our

digital issue, extended resource directory,

additional photos and articles, event calendar,

interactive community, and much more. Also,

follow us on Facebook and Twitter!

www.athensmove.com

Athens MOVE Advisory Council and Community Partners

Community LeadershipBecky GalvinYWCOMarketing Director/FitnessCoordinator

robert milesUGA Athletic DepartmentDirector of CHAMPS/Life Skills Program

Kadee holtAthens Community Council on AgingOutreach Coordinator

dr. Bryan mcCullickUGA College of EducationProfessor of Kinesiology

ruth e. siegfriedInVision Human Services Founder and President/CEO

eduCationanisa sullivan JimenezClarke County School DistrictDirector of PR & Communications

Jon WardClarke Central High SchoolAthletic Director

david smithMadison County High SchoolHealth & PE Teacher

Jamie CollinsworthComer Elementary SchoolHealth & PE Teacher

patricia harrisonOconee High SchoolHealth & PE Dept Head

don ChuboffAthens AcademyUpper School PE Dept Head

dr. Cynthia a. LoweOglethorpe County SchoolsDirector of System Operations

steve CummingsAthens Christian School Headmaster

Will mayerMonsignor Donovan Catholic High School Athletic Director

sports/parKs & reCreationdante trevinoOconee Futbol ClubDirector of Coaching

Jonathan FogginAthens Bulldog Swim Club, HeadAge Group Coach / Athens ClarkeDolphin Swim Team, Head Coach

John GentryOconee Parks & RecreationDirector

Joe avolioAthens United Soccer Association/Atlanta Falcons Physical Therapy Centers

elyse GilesAthens YMCA Fitness Director

Clay ChappellUS Junior Golf AssociationFounder/Head Coach

pam reidyACC Leisure ServicesDirector

Katina BuffaOconee Gymnastics CenterExecutive Director

david CroweWinter Bike LeagueLong-Time Participant

Julie evansClarke County School DistrictAdapted PE Teacher/ SpecialOlympics, Local Coordinator

randy mcelweeAmerican Black Belt AcademyDirector

heaLth and nutrition

mike pilcherAthens Regional Medical CenterAssociate DirectorCorporate Communications

sherri GogginMulherin Foundation for Health & Wellness, Director

avery mcLeanSt. Mary's Health Care SystemDirector Marketing & Public Relations

emma Laing, ph.d., r.d., L.d.UGA Department of Foods and Nutrition Assistant Research Scientist

alonzo t. sexton, ii, m.d.Athens Orthopedic Clinic Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine

Jimbo WoodHorizon Physical TherapyPhysical Therapist and Owner

Kendra houghton, m.ed., C.h.e.s.Wellness Coordinator Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County

dr. Kip matthewsAK Counseling & Consulting, Inc.Sport & Performance Psychologist

tara merritt, m.d.Performance Pediatrics & Sports Medicine

MOVE AdVisOry COunCil

athensMOVE.com 5

Passiton.indd 1 8/6/14 12:07 PM

MOVE IT and GET IT

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

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

athensMOVE.com 7

SportS ZoneneW MoVeS

Classes are led by Richard Samuel

Sports Zone Feature

other articles12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Picture.Perfect

14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Coach's.Corner

16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Team.on.the.MOVE

18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Athlete.on.the.MOVE

19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Adaptive.MOVES

8 Athens MOVE December/January

athensMOVE.com 9

In The Swim Of Things … For A Lifetime!

As we reflect back on fond memories of

our youth, most of us can remember

fun-filled days in a pool, lake, or

ocean. Some may also remember the hours

of practice we put in for swim team and the

excitement of community or high school swim

meets. Then we grow up and take on new

sports or activities that seem better suited to

our ‘young adult’ lifestyle.

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

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

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

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

by Gary Lefeuvre, executive director of Athens MOVE

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

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

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


KIDS’ VIEWS

Test your swimming knowledge!

By using their trunks as snorkels, elephants can swim as many as ___ miles a day?a. 10 b. 20 c. 30 d. 40

About what percentage of people in the U.S. do NOT know how to swim?a. 35% b. 50% c. 65% d. 80%

Swim fins were invented by:a. Thomas Edison b. Johnny Weismuller c. Benjamin Franklin d. Elias Howe

The first recorded swimming races were held in:a. Japan b. Australia c. France d. Denmark

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

In fact, swimming is one activity that athletes from virtually every other sport can utilize in the course of their training. That’s because swimming allows every person – young and old, accomplished athlete or novice exerciser – to work at his or her own pace. Being in the water offers low-impact activity, which is critical for those recuperating from injuries, as well as for those with mobility issues and pain-related diseases such as arthritis. And competitive athletes from other sports benefit from the increased flexibility, stretching, and overall strength training that is inherent in swimming.

At this point, perhaps we should identify exactly what we mean by ‘swimming.’ If you’re visualizing Mark Spitz or Missy Franklin or Michael Phelps, then you may be a bit intimidated by the idea of ‘swimming.’ But when we talk about it, we simply mean Answers: 1.b., 2.c., 3.c., 4.a.

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

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

athensMOVE.com 11

together from infancy through two years.

Of course, there are several levels of

swim classes for children and youth, and

there are also beginning adult classes for

grownups who have never learned to swim.

Hydrobics classes – aerobics in the water

– are available in deep and shallow water,

and offer a fun yet challenging workout that

is especially good for those with arthritis or

orthopedic injuries.

Swimming is great exercise, of course, and we know that adults and kids alike benefit with extracurricular activity. Swimming, specifically,

helps us train for other sports, especially with endurance.

www.usaswimming.com

www.gaswim.org

www.athensymca.org

www.ywco.org

www.summerhillrecreation.com

www.athensbulldogs.com

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

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

Provided by Skyhawk Sports Photography

Athens MOVe Picture Perfect

Winner

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

Spending the evening on the trampoline by

Mattie Boswell

Turkey Trot at Ila Elementary School by Zach Mitcham, Madison County Journal

by Zach Mitcham, Madison County Journal

Submit your favorite action shots for a chance to win a $50 gift certificate to

Dick's Sporting Goods. One winner per issue. To enter,

upload your "Picture Perfect" photo at AthensMOVE.com

Athens MOVE PhotoContest is Proudly Sponsored by:

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

Go to athensmove.com

for exclusive offers from

for our athens move

readers

Madison County Middle School Basketball by Dallas Bordon, Madison County Journal

A few weeks ago, four of my former golf students met up with

me at A&F Golf. It was a reunion of sorts back at the place

where they all first met. Anna Buchannan, Crocket Floyd,

and Mckenzie Hedrick were three of my first players when I started

the junior golf program; a few years later, Ansley Brock joined them.

Together, they learned the rules of the game, practiced their putting,

developed their swing and, most importantly, they had fun. Over the

years, I have watched each of them get better and better. They have

all progressed from playing a few holes at Lane Creek on Monday

nights to junior golf tournaments around the state and country, and

then to playing for their high school teams. Their tournament wins

and accomplishments are too many to list, but they are not finished

yet. They have all accepted scholarships to play in college, which has

been a goal each of them have been working toward for many years.

My Girls are GoinG to ColleGe


by Clay Chappell, A&F Golf Driving Range

SportS Zone CoaCh’S Corner

What the girls say about their first coach:

“He has been a major influence, because without him, I probably

wouldn’t have started playing golf.”

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

how to play.”

“He is really patient and very good at teaching you the basics. A lot of coaches don’t have that patience to teach kids and especially at such a

young age like three, four, or five years of age.”

“He has little tricks and sayings that just stick with you.” “I

remember being here all the time and looking forward to it.”

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

“I was always happy to come here.”

“On Mondays, even it if was cold we got excited about it because

it’s like your friends or like your family.”

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

I'm very proud of all four girls. It's fun to see them go from seven-year-old little linkster classes to being collegiate golfers. I don't want to take any credit for their golf games. They did it on their own. But I know I in-troduced it to them, gave them some fun-damentals and, most importantly, passed along a passion for the game. That makes me very happy. They have proven to me that with passion and hard work, anything can be accomplished.

athensMOVE.com 15

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

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

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

706.424.5741660 Meigs Street • Athens, Ga 30601

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Aspiring to be like those girls

by Gary LeFeuvre, executive director for Athens MOVE

SportS Zone team on the moVe

Five seasons ago, Coach Bridget took a group of seven girls on Level 4 and formed the first competitive team at

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

athensMOVE.com 17

This new group of 20+ girls starts as young as six years old, and they

have a lot of energy and enthusiasm. They practice 16 hours per week

in the same part of the gym as the older girls that they aspire to be

like. According to Coach Bridget, they all have the potential to reach

the top levels of optional gymnastics if they work hard and stick with

it. Working hard on these teams is made a lot easier because they

have so much fun together. Coach Kat, the OGC owner, says, “This

can be a social sport. Our teams spend a lot of time with each other

in and out of the gym. We want them to have fun and they really love

and support one another." Even though some are in different grades,

different schools, and even different counties, the girls at OCG are like

a family…a family where everyone just happens to love gymnastics!

AlwAys RunningDawson Frey likes to run and he does it a lot. The

13-year-old eighth grader at Oglethorpe Middle School basically runs all year. He runs on the cross

country courses in the fall, on the basketball court in the winter, on the track in the spring for track and field, and then various places during the summer to get ready for cross country in the fall. Dawson doesn’t mind: “To me, it’s fun to run, and when I run I concentrate and think about stuff. It’s just fun!”

Apparently he is also really good at it, too. In only his second year of competition, he finished first at the GA State Cross Country meet for the boys’ medium school division. His time of 11:29 on the two-mile course was a minute faster than his time last year, and he finished 10 seconds faster than the second place finisher. Dawson was also named the GA Middle School Runner of the Year.

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

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


SportS Zone Athlete on the move

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

by Gary LeFeuvre, executive director of Athens MOVE

Apparently he is also really good at it, too. In only his second year of competition, he finished first at the GA State Cross Country meet for the boys’ medium school division. His time of 11:29 on the two-mile course was a minute faster than his time last year, and he finished 10 seconds faster than the second place finisher. Dawson was also

His school coach, Bea Marchette, tells us, “From the get-go, Dawson was eager

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

Do you know someone with “Different abilities”?

One of the major changes in the area of human services right

now is to try to get people to start thinking of people with

“different abilities” instead of “disabilities.” After all, people

who use wheelchairs have the ability to move from one place to

another, to drive a car, to play sports, and more. They just do it “dif-

ferently” than someone who does NOT use a wheelchair. And some

people with intellectual abilities may have to think through math

problems and look at football playbooks with different guidance

than someone withOUT an intellectual ability, but they are still able

to consider the information in front of them.

athensMOVE.com 19

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

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

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

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

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

by Marjie Foster, national editorial director for Global MOVE Media

SportS ZoneAdAptive MoveS

disability may be able to have a parent

accompany them? That would help them

feel more comfortable and give you the

security of having someone there who

can provide support for the children.

• Who might be excluded if you have this

activity? Are you going to a multi-level

playplace? If all your friends cannot

access the ball pit or the tunnels, how

would you feel about re-thinking that lo-

cation? It’s your party, but will it be just

a little less fun if every friend cannot be

with you?

We are lucky that we have more and more

awareness of and support for people

with “different abilities.” Our children go

to school with kids who experience chal-

lenges we cannot begin to understand.

The more aware we can be, and the more

accessible we can make their everyday ac-

tivities, the more rewarding all of our lives

will be!

Adaptive paddling kayak" by vastateparksstaff


Recreation Zone Feature

other articles26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Steps.and.Strides

24 . . . . . . . . . . . . Spokes.and.Sprockets

28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Paws.to.Play

29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Senior.MOVES

athensMOVE.com 21

Even here in the temperate climate of

Athens, Georgia, weather conditions

can change rapidly during the win-

ter months, especially at night or at higher

elevations. Whether you and your family like

to hike or ride bikes, go to the playground

or play tennis, you need to aware of poten-

tial weather conditions, dressing and pack-

ing accordingly so you are comfortable and,

above all, safe.

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

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

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

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

Dress (anD Plan) for Winter success!


2.Keepdrinkingwater. Toooften,peoplethinkthatifthey’renotsweatingprofuse-ly,they’renotlosingfluids.Theproblemis that thecoldweatheroftendisguisesyoursweating.Justremember,ifyou’reexercising,you’relosingfluids.

3.Have a travel plan. Even if you’re justbikingorwalking fora fewmiles,knowyour path, and leave a note so some-one knows where you’re traveling andwhen you plan to return. Make surefriendsand familyknow that ifyouandyourgrouparen’tbackattheappointedtime(andhaven’tcheckedintoletthemknow), that theyshould feelcompletelyjustifiedinlookingforyou.

4.Sticktoyourtravelplan.Toooften,ad-venturersdo just that…theygoonanadventure. Thishasproveddangerous(ordeadly)inextremeweather.Referto3.above. Ifyouneedhelp, thepeoplewhocareaboutyouaregoingtocomelooking where you told them you’d be.Don’t make a bad situation worse byveeringfromyourplannedpath.

22AthensMOVEDecember/January

choiceswhenwedogoout for ahike, abikeride,arun,orevenjustawalkaroundtheblock.

It’snotdifficulttobereadyforoutdoorac-tivitiesduringthecoldermonths.Herearesomesimpleguidelines for youandyourfamily. We’vecompiled them fromactualstoriesaboutpeoplewhohavelearned‘thehardway’howtobebetterprepared.

These recommendations apply no matterwhatactivityyouareplanning.Fromalongwalkonalocaltrailtoanovernighthikeinthe North Georgia Mountains … from abikeridearoundthecountytoaweekendtrek…nomatterwhatyouractivity,followthisadvicetostaysafeandwarm:

1.First and foremost, don’t go out alone.Andifyou’retakinganovernight(orsev-eral nights) trip, be sure you’re hiking/biking with at least four other people.You’ll want to help each other, watchforanydangersignsineachother,andhave plenty of supplies that you canshareifneeded.

Winter Hiking / Biking EssentialsFirstAidKit

Map(notjustGPSdevice)

Waterandfood

Warm,layeredclothing

Footweardesignedfortheequipmentandterrainyou’reworkingwith

Flashlight(withsparebatteries)

Waterproofpackforalloftheabove

For more information, visit these websites:www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/winter-recreation.htm

www.active.com/triathlon/articles/embrace-the-season-5-tips-for-winter-cycling-883096

www.outdoors.org/recreation/hiking/hiking-hypothermia.cfm

5.Dressfortheweather.Thatmayseemlikeano-brainer,butyou’dbesurprisedathowmanypeoplethought“itjustwasn’tthatcold”or“therewasn’tanyrain/snow/sleetexpected…itcameoutofnowhere”or“itwaswarmwhenweleftbutgotsocold”or“wedidn’texpecttobeoutthatlonganditgotsocold.”Really…listentotheage-oldadvicetolayeryourclothing.Youwanttobeabletotakeoffandaddonlayersdependingonyourbodytemperature.

6.Read about where you’ll be going.Ifyou’reheadedtounfamiliartrailsorter-rain, make sure you have a good map(GPSonlyworksifyouhaveasignalforyour device!) and reliable informationabout thearea’sweather, available ser-vices,wildlife,andtopography.

7.Livebythemotto…whenindoubt,don’tgoout. Thatdoesn’tmeanstay insideandletthefunofacrispwinterdaypassyouby. Itmeansthat if theexpertsaretellingyouit’snotagoodidea,thenlis-tentothem.Ifthosesameexperts(liketheoneswe researched for thisarticle)recommend specific kinds of clothing,equipment, or nutrition (like the oneswe’velistedhere),thenlistentothem.

Each year, hikers, bikers, walkers, run-ners,andeventhosejustplayingatthelo-calplaygroundfind themselvesat risk (or,worseyet,experiencing)severeillness,in-jury,orworsefrombeingunprepared.Thesafetyofyouandeachmemberofyourfam-ily relieson judgment, experience,properequipment and clothing, and attention totheenvironment,includingtheweather.

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

It’s not difficult to be readytivities during the coldersome simple guidelinesfamily. We’vestories

athensMOVE.com 23

What is cold-induced asthma?Cold-induced asthma is, as the name sug-gests, a form of asthma that causes asth-ma symptoms exclusively during cold air exposure. It affects individuals who have lungs that are more sensitive to cold, dry air. Exercise tends to exacerbate these symptoms because this is a time when we breathe more heavily through our mouths, allowing cold, dry air down into our lungs. Normally, we breathe through our noses, which gives the body a chance to humidify and warm the air we breathe before it en-ters the lungs. Cold air entering the lungs causes bronchoconstriction, which means it causes the passageways of the lungs to narrow and spasm, producing asthma symptoms.

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

It is very important to recognize the signs and symptoms of cold-induced asthma, which include shortness of breath beyond what is expected by the exercise one is do-ing, plus coughing, wheezing, tightness in the chest, and decreased performance. Symptoms are usually recognizable within the first 10 minutes of exercise or cold expo-sure because this is the time that the lungs have undergone the initial rush of cold air that can cause the lungs to constrict. It is also important to emphasize that one does not have to be actually exercising to have symptoms of cold-induced asthma. Many sensitive individuals can be affected just by going outside during a very cold, dry day.

Are kids more or equally susceptible to cold-induced

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

actly what they are experiencing. Children

may complain of not being able to keep up

with their peers on the playground/sports

field, or avoid exercise altogether. Parents

should be wary of these warning signs,

and watch for any excessive breathing dif-

ficulty or wheezing.

Does exercise trigger and/or contribute to cold-induced asthma?You really can’t discuss cold-induced asth-

ma without focusing on exercise as a com-

mon trigger.

How is it treated?Masks and scarves can be used during

cold days to trap heat and moisture as a

person exhales, and allow that warmer

air to be inhaled back into lungs. Use of

a gym to exercise indoors during the win-

ter months can help. Warm up gradually

before strenuous exercise. I recommend

five to 10 minutes of warmup with a gradual

increase in intensity. This gives the body

time to warm the lungs and acclimate to the

temperature outside before strenuous exer-

cise ensues. Use of an albuterol inhaler 10-

15 minutes before cold air exposure to pre-

vent the adverse effects may help as well.

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

You should always consult your doctor if

you have any concerns about you or your

child’s outdoor activities during the cold

winter months, especially if you recognize

any of the signs and symptoms of asthma

discussed above. Your doctor may also

prescribe an albuterol inhaler to help you

to continue to participate in the activities

outside that you or your child enjoy.

provided by Dr. Matthew Farmer, Athens Internal Medicine Associates

Cold-Induced Asthma

EffEcts of WintEr runs

The sunny, cool days of fall are quickly fleeting,

as Georgia begins to transition into the colder

temperature months. I have reluctantly begun

trading in my running shorts and t-shirts for thermal pants

and jackets. You may have even brought out a heavy coat

as the mornings have become frostier. Before we know

it, we will be in the full-blown winter season, potentially

facing snow and even ice storms once again.


by Lindsey Ebert, editorial intern for Athens MOVE

RECREation ZonE StEpS and StRidES

athensMOVE.com 25

new cross-training programdesigned specifi cally for runners

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RunFit is an hour-long training session engineered by

Horizon Physical Therapy and Ryan Marsh, co-owner of Athens Personal Fitness, with

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

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

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

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

Don’t let the risk of developing a cold this December mark the end of your walking or running routine. There are benefits of cold weather exercise as well. These benefits in-clude everything from preventing Seasonal Affective Disorder to increased endurance. When proper precautions are taken, you can maintain your fitness and health levels even as the temperatures begin to drop.

Use these three quick tips to begin your

preparations for this winter:

ProPerly layer. Keeping your core

warm is vital. When you layer up, start

with a synthetic material. This will draw

the moisture away from your body as you

sweat. Next, add a fleece or wool layer for

added warmth. If necessary, the final layer

should be waterproof material in order to

repel wind and rain or snow. Don’t forget

your head, fingers, and toes! A large por-

tion of your body heat is lost through your

head, so make sure to bring a hat.

CheCk the foreCast. When possible,

avoid the rain and wind. When water or

snow is added into the winter mix, our bod-

ies find it more difficult to regulate tempera-

ture. On particularly wet days, consider an

indoor cross-training activity or a treadmill.

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

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

Don’t let the risk of developing a cold this December mark the end of your

walking or running routine.


RECREation ZonE SpokES and SpRoCkEtS

Take Your ride inside

As temperatures drop and daylight hours shorten,

riding your bicycle outside may not be safe or

comfortable. Keeping up your riding routine during

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

athensMOVE.com 27

want a floor mat to protect your floors, a

reading rack to hold books or magazines,

and a trainer tire (trainers can wear out tires

quickly). Another suggestion from Brian at

The Hub: “There are all kinds of videos that

can provide a structured workout and make

it more intense and interesting. Trainer rid-

ing can become boring, and you won’t be

doing much if you are just riding along.”

The local bike shops are not only good

places to buy a trainer, they also have

equipment and/or classes that give you an

opportunity to see what it is like to ride on

one. Some, like Georgia Cycle Sport, even

offer spin classes and multi-rider trainer

classes if you prefer riding with a group.

For more information, contact these local

bike shops: The Hub, www.hubbikes.com,

706-355-3989; Georgia Cycle Sport,

www.georgiacyclesport.com, 706-549-2453;

Sunshine Cycles, www.sunshinecycles.com,

706.548.6088.


THE UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA®

Veterinary Teaching Hospital

706.542.3221 • www.vet.uga.edu/hospital New Hospital / New Location • Moving in March 2015!

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

RECREation ZonE Paws to Play

Feline Fitness

Have you ever seen a cat out for a run with its

owner? Or playing Frisbee with children at the park? Probably not.

But just because we have to play differ-

ently with our cats than our dogs doesn’t

mean that it is not important to keep them

moving. Exercise is needed to maintain a

healthy body, and research has shown that

overweight cats are much more likely to

suffer from chronic diseases such as dia-

betes and painful arthritis than cats of nor-

mal weight. Also, exercise can help reduce

stress (just like it does for people).

Cats present a unique challenge for exer-

cise. They have a notoriously independent

spirit, so you have to encourage play on

their own terms. Here are some great ideas:

• Put an empty paper (never plastic!) gro-

cery bag on the floor … many kitties will

by Dr. Linda Leavell, Mars Hill Animal Hospital

run from wherever they are to jump in. Cardboard boxes work well too.

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

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

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

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


Fitness Classes For seniors

Are you a senior who

usually stays inside

with minimal activity

all winter? Do you know

an older friend or family

member who falls into this

trap of inactivity?

During the colder months, many of us don’t get enough physical activity, and this is especially concerning for senior adults. Regular movement and activity is important because it helps seniors maintain muscle, flexibility, range of motion, circulation, and overall health and wellness. Fortunately, in the greater Athens area, there are lots of

athensMOVE.com 29


RECREation ZonESEnioR MoVES

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

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

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

• In addition to their fitness center, weight room and indoor pool, the YWCO of Ath-ens offers adult exercise programs and fitness classes for the body and mind. Adult fitness classes are available for all levels and interests and include circuit training, dance aerobics, Pilates, step class, Zumba, yoga, cardio and weight training, water exercise, and more. The YWCO also works with SilverSneak-ers® Fitness Program, the nation’s lead-ing fitness program designed exclusively for older adults. It promotes healthy, ac-tive lifestyles through unique physical activity programs. For more information about programs at the YWCO, visit www.ywco.org or call 706-354-7880.

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


Family Zone Feature

other articles34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Healthy.Recipes

35 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Family.Challenge

36 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kids'.Tips

37 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Brain.Waves

38 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nutrition.Tips

KIDS’ VIEWS

What do YOU think?Staying active during the holidays (and all winter) will help you:

1. Be less susceptible to some sicknesses

2. Be more energetic3. Keep your body moving, which

helps you stay warm

4. Feel happier5. All of the above

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

athensMOVE.com 31

Keep MOVING DurING the hOlIDays!

I know you don’t want to hear this, but …

walking into the kitchen for more goodies

and then sprinting back to the living room

to watch the next football game on television

is NOT what we mean when we say “keep

moving during the holidays.” Jumping up

when the doorbell rings and then diving back

in front of your favorite video game is NOT

what we mean, either.

It’s so easy – for ALL of us – to take a few days off our normal activity

regime. We find ourselves falling into the trap of saying, “I’ll just skip

my treadmill time today, then get back on track tomorrow.” or “It won’t

hurt me to miss my Zumba class during these weeks with all the other

events going on.” The problem is that too many of us don’t get back

in the routine. So the trick is to keep exercising, even when (or maybe

especially when) the holiday calendar is filled with events, special

foods, and limited time for our normally scheduled activities.

Whether you’re a youngster, a teen, or a parent, you can help your

family find ways to stay active from now through the new year. And

in the middle of all that activity, you’ll find ways to enjoy each other’s


company, too. At the end of this holiday season, you’ll be able to say "we had fun and stayed healthy, even while enjoying all the treats of the season!"

Number One tip for the grownups reading this article: Let the kids inspire you with winter activities. Chances are, many of the activities they choose won’t feel like exercise. They’ll just feel like fun things you’ve done with the youngsters. For instance, take a nature walk through the woods. If there’s a little snow on the ground (we can always hope), even better! There’s nothing quite as invigorating as the amazing quiet that a snowfall brings to the forest. Maybe you’ve wanted to try geocaching. Winter is a perfect time to start! Geocaching is a treasure-hunting game using GPS devices to find ‘hidden treasures.’ We haven’t met anyone yet who doesn’t get a kick out of a great ‘find’ or even just the hunt!

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


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

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

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

• Get a new game for the WiiFit

• Play your kids’ favorite music and create some dances together

• Have a “Someone Else’s Treasure Hunt” – collect old clothes, used toys and appliances, and recycle them with a local charitable organization or church

You’re going to think we’re crazy for suggesting this next one, but … have a Chore Party! Better yet, when was the last time you had Chore Olympics? Who can clean their rooms best? quickest? Winner gets their favorite dinner that night. Who can collect the most items of used clothing for “Someone Else’s Treasure Hunt”? Winner gets to pick a family movie for the

weekend! Who can go the longest during

the garage cleaning-out activity withOUT

complaining? Winner gets a new book or

toy or CD!

Perhaps the best activity of all for a family

this winter is … volunteering. Consider

giving some time at a local soup kitchen

or children’s hospital. Or walk through your

neighborhood collecting donations for the

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

thon to raise money for a local shelter. Let

the kids come up with suggestions … you

will be so proud of how much they want to

help their neighbors, and how creative they

will be with ideas!

Of course, there are always indoor activities

like basketball, indoor swimming, batting

cages, tumbling, dance, and more. What

do your kids love to do? It’s okay not to

do something organized. The important

thing is to let everyone do something they

find enjoyable. That’s what keeps people

of all ages interested, enthusiastic, and

committed to MOVing through the holidays

and all year ‘round.

Learn more about Geocaching atwww.athensmove.com/recreation/geo-what

Cheddar CornbreadIngredients:Nonstick cooking spray1-1/3 C all-purpose flour2/3 C yellow cornmeal3 T sugar1-1/2 t baking powder3/4 t baking soda1/2 t salt1/4 t pepper1 C buttermilk1/4 C canola oil2 egg whites (beat lightly)1/3 C grated cheddar (sharp or extra sharp)1/4 C scallions, sliced thin

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Lightly spray two eight-inch round cake pans with nonstick cooking spray.

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

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

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

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

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

The New Green Bean Casserole Ingredients: 3 or 4 medium shallots (leave skins on)Kosher salt1 lb. fresh green beans (remove stems and cut in half cross-wise)1 T extra-virgin olive oil3-1/2 to 4 C mushrooms, sliced then chopped2 T unsalted butter3 T all-purpose flour1-1/2 C vegetable or chicken broth3 t fresh thyme leavesBlack pepperVegetable cooking spray1 C bread crumbs

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Family Zone healthy ReCiPeS

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


athensMOVE.com 35

Family ZoneFamily Challenge

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

play a round and record your scores below.

What Will you need?Creativity, accuracy, precision, and a stretch of the imagination,

along with some interesting ‘golf clubs’ and ‘golf balls.’

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

How many times did you laugh during this family challenge?

Were there any problems you had to solve during this challenge? If so, how did you solve them?

a hole in one in the BathtuB?

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


Family Zone Kids' Tips

Holiday Gifts tHat Keep you on tHe MoVe

I remember always wanting a trampoline as a kid, and one of the most significant trampoline memories I have from my earlier years actually deals with winter weather (I lived

in Oklahoma at the time). One year – I was probably around seven or eight years old – a blizzard came in while I was staying at a friend’s house. We ended up being snowed in and I stayed there for a day or two longer than expected. He had a trampoline, and when we went out into his yard to jump on it, it was completely covered in snow. We had fun jumping around and bouncing the snow layers around.

For Friends, Family, and Frivolity (not to mention exercise disguised as fun!)1. Trampoline

2. Backyard swingset

3. Pogo stick

4. Badminton, croquet, cornhole, and other yard games

5. Bicycles and tricycles – make sure there’s one for every family member!

6. Camping equipment – backyard cam-pouts are almost as fun as vacations!

7. Scooters (non-motorized)

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

9. Light-up and glow-in-the-dark football – for after-dark fun

For #10 and #11 on this list, we want to steer you to a different direction … toward preparing and enjoying healthy foods as a family!

10. BBQ grill (and the tools to go with it)

11. Cookbooks and recipes that let you create together can be found/pur-chased here:

• 12 Great Cookbooks for Kids - http://goo.gl/51GOe3

• Kids in the Holiday Kitchen: Making, Baking, Giving - http://goo.gl/xExTak

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

Of course, trampolines are probably best for warmer weather, but I feel like any kid would appreciate getting one at any point. And let’s face it, snow in Athens is not the norm, so we don’t have to worry too much about that here. But jumping around would keep you and your family warm, too, even if there is no snow!

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

athensMOVE.com 37

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Family ZoneBrain Waves

BRRRR…

Across

3. The process by which snow or ice

changes to water.

7. A period of very cold winter weather

that damages plants.

8. Intensely cold temperatures.

11. The temperature felt by the human

body when wind makes it feel colder

than the actual temperature.

12. Mildly cold feeling.

14. Bright with sunshine.

16. Snowfall that is so heavy one can see

little or nothing on the horizon.

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

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

Down1. A standardized measure of how hot

or cold it is outside.

2. Rain that freezes as it falls.

4. A tool used to measure the temperature.

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

6. Pieces of ice falling from the sky.

9. A solid form of frozen water.

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

13. Covered with snow and water.

14. A mixture of snow and water.

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

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

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

IN SEASONWhat does that mean…


Family Zone nutrition tips

You’ve read in Athens MOVE (and other publications)

that it’s best to eat fruits and vegetables “in season.”

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

it is either harvested at that time and that it is at its most

flavorful at that time. (It also – usually – means the time

when foods are their least expensive and freshest!)

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

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

• Apples

• Dates

• Grapefruit

• Lemons

• Persimmons

• Passion Fruit

• Bananas

• Papayas

• Kiwi

• Oranges

• Tangerines

• Avocados

• Red Currants

• Pears

For more “in season” ideas, visit www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20319947,00.html and

www.rodalenews.com/7-best-winter-fruits-protecting-your-heart.

Hospitals

Athens RegionAl MedicAl centeR706-475-7000www.athenshealth.org1199 Prince Ave, Athens, GA

st MARy's heAth cARe systeM706-389-3000www.stmarysathens.org1230 Baxter St. Athens, GA

internal Medicine & priMary care

Athens inteRnAl Medicine AssociAtes706-548-8600www.athensinternalmedicine.com1500 Oglethorpe Ave., Suite 400A, Athens GA

AthenA MedicAl clinic 706-850-6383 www.athenamedicalclinic.com1500 Oglethorpe Ave Ste 3100. Athens

hAwthoRn MedicAl AssociAtesAthens: 706-353-8700, Watkinsville: 706-769-3331www.hawthornemed.com120 Hawthorne Park, Athens, GA 306061351 Stonebridge Parkway, Bldg 105, Watkinsville, GA

ortHopedic

Athens oRthopedic clinic706-549-1663www.athensorthopedicclinic.com1765 Old West Broad St. Bldg. 2, Athens

oRthodontics & dentistRyClassic City Orthodontics706-549-4748www.classiccityorthodontics.com1020 Jamestown Blvd., Bldg. 100, Watkinsville, GA

wAugh & Allen oRthodontics706-353-3500www.waorthodontics.com2470 Daniells Bridge Rd #201, Athens, GA

dR. John FRAntz, dds706-769-1945www.johnsfrantzdmd.com1120 Mars Hill Rd #100, Watkinsville, GA

pediatrics

pediAtRic pARtneRs706-548-1216www.pediatricpartnersga.com1500 Langford Dr., Suite 100 Watkinsville, GA

peRFoRMAnce pediAtRics & spoRts Medicine706-850-8750www.athensactivekids.com1181 Langford Dr #101, Bogart, GA

pHysical tHerapy & reHabilitation

hoRizon physicAl theRApy706-548-7300www.horizonphysicaltherapy.com1360 Caduceus Way, Bldg. 200, Watkinsville, GA

spARc – spoRts peRFoRMAnce And RehAbilitAtion centeR706-286-7338www.sparcathens.com1765 Old West Broad, Bldg 3, Athens, GA

Urgent care

Athens RegionAl FiRstcAReAthens: 706-353-6000 Watkinsville: 706-769-0000www.regionalfirstcare.org485 Highway 29 North, Athens, GA 306011960 Experiment Station, Watkinsville, GA

Reddy MedicAl gRoup706-621-7575www.reddymedicalgroup.com1061 Dowdy rd. #101, Athens, GA

HealtH directory

athensMOVE.com 39

atHens MoVe

introdUcing … atHens MoVe HealtH and nUtrition directory

Athens MOVE shares a common passion for improving the lives of our citizens and community through sports, recreation, fitness, and wellness programs. In doing so, we feel it is important to provide our readers with a much-needed health and nutrition directory that features, doctors, dentist, orthopedics, chiropractors, and many other related health providers in our area.

28,000 copies of Athens MOVE magazine are distributed six times a year in greater Athens and the surrounding counties. Through our school partnerships, a copy of our Athens MOVE magazine is sent home to the families of students from K-8 in all four of the county school districts plus most of the private schools. Additional distribution includes high schools, UGA, sports and recreation facilities, medical facilities, local employers, retail locations, and other community locations.

• List your organization or practice or clinic in our Health and Nutrition Directory in print and online

• Multi-media combination of a high quality magazine, website, digital magazine, e-newsletter, and social media

• Distributed to every student in K-8th grade in Clarke, Oconee, Madison, and Oglethorpe county schools

HOSPITALS

ATHENS REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTERPhone: (706)475-7000Website: www.athenshealth.orgAddress: 1199PrinceAve,Athens,GA30606

ST. MARYS HEALTH SYSTEMPhone: 706-389-3000Website: www.stmarysathens.orgAddress: 1230BaxterSt,Athens,GA30606

GEORGIA ELITE GYMNASTICSPhone: (706)769-1786Website: www.georgiaelitegymnastics.com,Address: 1010LampkinBranchDr.,

Watkinsville

OCONEE GYMNASTICS CENTERPhone: (706)769-1239Email: [email protected]: www.oconeegymnastics.comAddress: 1090JamestownBlvd.,Watkinsville

CLARKE OCONEE TENNIS ASSOCIATION (COTA)Email: [email protected]: www.cotatennis.netAddress: P.O.Box1242,Athens

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS

ATHENS COMMUNITY COUNCIL ON AGINGPhone: (706)549-4850Email: [email protected]: www.accaging.orgAddress: 135HoytStreet,Athens

ATHENS ACADEMYPhone: (706)549-9225Email: [email protected]: www.athensacademy.orgAddress: 1281SpartanLane,Athens

MARTIAL ARTS

LIVE OAK MARTIAL ARTSPhone: (706)548-0077Email: [email protected]: www.liveoakmartialarts.comAddress: 400-CCommerceBlvd,Bogart

BARNETT TAE KWON DO ACADEMYPhone: (706)543-9966Email: [email protected]: www.BarnettTaeKwonDoAcademy.comAddress: 2250BarnettShoalsRd.,Athens

ATHENS FITNESS AND MIXED MARTIAL ARTSPhone: (706)850-8444Email: [email protected]: www.athensfitnessandmma.comAddress: 240CollinsIndustrialBlvd.,Ste.G,Athens

PEDIATRICIAN

PEDIATRIC PARTNERSPhone: (706)548-1216Website: www.pediatricpartnersga.comAddress: 1500VirgilLangfordRd,Bogart,GA

SUNSHINE PEDIATRICS PCPhone: (706)769-9410Website: www.sunshine-pediatrics.comAddress: 1160CapitalAve,Watkinsville,GA

DR. VICTOR A. MORALES, MDPhone: (706)389-3000Address: 1230BaxterSt,Athens,GA30606

OCONEE PEDIATRICSPhone: (706)769-7743Website: www.oconeepeds.comAddress: 1020TwelveOaksPl,SteA,Watkinsville,GA

ORTHODONTICS

OUTDOORS WITHOUT LIMITSPhone: (803)480-0167Email: [email protected]: www.outdoorswithoutlimits.netAddress: 333BriarwoodTrail,Winterville

ACTIVE CLIMBINGPhone: (706)354-0038Email: [email protected]: www.activeclimbing.comAddress: 665BarberSt.,Athens

PHYSICAL THERAPY

HORIZON PHYSICAL THERAPYPhone: (706)548-7300Email: [email protected]: www.horizonphysicaltherapy.comAddress: 1360CaduceusWay,Blding200,

Suite105,Watkinsville

ATHENS ORTHOPEDIC CLINICPhone: (706)549-1663Email: [email protected]: www.athensorthopedicclinic.com

Address: 1765OldWestBroadSt.,Bldg.2,Ste.200,Athens

DANCE & PERFORMING ARTS

CANOPY STUDIOPhone: (706)254-2111Email: [email protected]: www.canopystudio.comAddress: 160-6TracySt.,Athens

ALICE DEPASS STUDIO OF DANCE, INC.Phone: (706)769-1177Email: [email protected]: www.depassstudioofdance.comAddress: 1041ParkDrive,Watkinsville

STUDIO DANCE ACADEMYPhone: (706)354-6454Email: [email protected]: www.thestudiodanceacademy.comAddress:LocatedbehindTraderJoe’s,

EppsBridgeShoppingCenter,Athens

SPORTS & RECREATION FACILITIES

ATHENS-CLARKE COUNTY LEISURE SERVICESPhone: (706)613-3800Email: [email protected]: www.accleisureservices.comAddress: 205OldCommerceRd,Athens

MADISON COUNTY RECREATION DEPT.Phone: (706)795-6270Email: [email protected]: www.madcorec.comAddress: 1345Hwy98West,Danielsville

OCONEE COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENTPhone: (706)769-3965Email: [email protected]: www.ocprd.comAddress: 3500AHogMountainRoad,Watkinsville

YWCOPhone: (706)354-7880Email: [email protected]: www.ywco.orgAddress: 562ResearchDrive,Athens

ATHENS YMCAPhone: (706)543-6596Email: [email protected]: www.athensymca.orgAddress: 915HawthorneAve.,Athens

To learn more about any of these organizations or businesses visit athensmove.comTo add your organization or business to our directory email us at [email protected]

RESOURCE DIRECTORY

athensMOVE.com 29

ATHENS MOVE

Print

Online

Get more information or register your business at

www.athensmove.com/hnd

SPORTS

ATHENS UNITED SOCCER ASSOCIATIONPhone: (706)353-2241

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.athensunited.net

Address: 2350PrinceAve.,Ste.1,Athens

DOWNTOWN MINISTRIES SPORTSEmail: [email protected]

Website: www.downtownministries.org

Address: 165PulaskiSt.,Athens

GEORGIA ELITE GYMNASTICSPhone: (706)769-1786

Website: www.georgiaelitegymnastics.com

Address: 1010LampkinBranchDr.,

Watkinsville

OCONEE GYMNASTICS CENTERPhone: (706)769-1239


Website: www.oconeegymnastics.com

Address: 1090JamestownBlvd.,Watkinsville

CLARkE OCONEE TENNIS ASSOCIATION (COTA)Email: [email protected]

Website: www.cotatennis.net

Address: P.O.Box1242,Athens

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS

ATHENS COMMUNITY COUNCIL ON AGINGPhone: (706)549-4850


Website: www.accaging.org

Address: 135HoytStreet,Athens

ATHENS ACADEMYPhone: (706)549-9225


Website: www.athensacademy.org

Address: 1281SpartanLane,Athens

MARTIAL ARTS

LIvE OAk MARTIAL ARTSPhone: (706)548-0077


Website: www.liveoakmartialarts.com

Address: 400-CCommerceBlvd,Bogart

BARNETT TAE kWON DO ACADEMYPhone: (706)543-9966


Website: www.BarnettTaeKwonDoAcademy.com

Address: 2250BarnettShoalsRd.,Athens

ATHENS FITNESS AND MIXED MARTIAL ARTSPhone: (706)850-8444


Website: www.athensfitnessandmma.com

Address: 240CollinsIndustrialBlvd.,Ste.G,Athens

FITNESS & TRAINING

ATHENS vERTICAL POLE DANCE ACADEMY

Phone: (706)347-3708


Website: www.avpda.com

Address: 160TraceySt.,Athens

BODYPLEX (3 LOCATIONS)

Eastside: (706)548-9999

1225CedarShoalsDr.,Athens

Westside:(706)548-3481

196AlpsRd.,Athens

Oconee: (706)310-0811

1260MarsHillRd.,Watkinsville

Website: www.BodyPlex.com

CORE BLEND TRAINING & WELLNESS

Phone: (404)542-8047

Website: www.coreblendtraining.com

Address: 1230GreensboroHwy.,Watkinsville

PURE BARRE ATHENS

Phone: (706)850-4000


Website: www.purebarre.com/ga-athens

Address: 191AlpsRoadSuite17,Athens

RECREATION

OUTDOORS WITHOUT LIMITS

Phone: (803)480-0167


Website: www.outdoorswithoutlimits.net

Address: 333BriarwoodTrail,Winterville

ACTIvE CLIMBING

Phone: (706)354-0038


Website: www.activeclimbing.com

Address: 665BarberSt.,Athens

DANCE & PERFORMING ARTS

CANOPY STUDIO

Phone: (706)254-2111


Website: www.canopystudio.com

Address: 160-6TracySt.,Athens

ALICE DEPASS STUDIO OF DANCE, INC.

Phone: (706)769-1177


Website: www.depassstudioofdance.com

Address: 1041ParkDrive,Watkinsville

STUDIO DANCE ACADEMY

Phone: (706)354-6454


Website: www.thestudiodanceacademy.com

Address:LocatedbehindTraderJoe’s,

EppsBridgeShoppingCenter,Athens

SPORTS & RECREATION FACILITIES

ATHENS-CLARkE COUNTY LEISURE SERvICES

Phone: (706)613-3800


Website: www.accleisureservices.com

Address: 205OldCommerceRd,Athens

MADISON COUNTY RECREATION DEPT.

Phone: (706)795-6270


Website: www.madcorec.com

Address: 1345Hwy98West,Danielsville

OCONEE COUNTY PARkS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT

Phone: (706)769-3965


Website: www.ocprd.com

Address: 3500AHogMountainRoad,Watkinsville

YWCO

Phone: (706)354-7880


Website: www.ywco.org

Address: 562ResearchDrive,Athens

ATHENS YMCA

Phone: (706)543-6596


Website: www.athensymca.org

Address: 915HawthorneAve.,Athens

To learn more

about any of these

organizations or

businesses visit

athensmove.com

To add your

organization or

business to our

directory email us at

[email protected]

REsOuRcE diREctORyAthEns MOVE


CalendardeCember - January

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

Have an event? Add yours to our calendar FREE and you can include links and photos, and share it with social media. Email us at [email protected]

December 6

WALTON cHAmber OF cOmmerce HALF mArATHON AND 5K

8am @ Harmony Elementary School Monroe www.classicraceservices.com

ST. JuDe 5K8am @ Athens GA www.active.com

December 7

3rD ANNuAL HOLLY JOLLY eLF TrOT 5K AND FuN ruN

1:30pm @ Candler St, Winder www.classicraceservices.com

December 20

2014 JINGLe JOG 5K AND FuN ruN

9am @ Barrow County Rec Dept www.classicraceservices.com

WILL cHAmberLIN memOrIAL SANTA STrOLL 8K

8am @ Bishop Baptist Church

www.classicraceservices.com

JANuArY 1

HAPPY NeW YeAr

9TH ANNuAL NeW YeArS AT NOON 5K

11am @ Sandy Creek Park www.active.com

JANuArY 3

NeW YeAr'S reSOLuTION TrAIL ruN 8K

8:30am @ Fort Yargo State Park www.active.com

JANuArY 10

6TH ANNuAL PILOT cLub cHASe 5K ruN/WALK8am @ Oconee Veterans Park www.classicraceservices.com

JANuArY 17

JAYceeS JANuArY JOG 5K AND 10.2K7:30 @ Rocket Field, Watkinsville

JANuArY 19

5TH ANNuAL mL5K AND DreAm DASH2:15pm @ Dudley Park

www.classicraceservices.com

JANuArY 31

INAuGurAL WINTerVILLe SNOWFLAKe 10K8am @ Pittard Park Winterville www.classicraceservices.com

WJIS SHADOW SHuFFLe 5K2pm @ Hoschton, GA www.runnersfit.com

FebruArY 21

TINA bOrG cLASSIc 5K beNeFITING WINSHIP cANcer INSTITuTe

TBA @ Stegeman Coliceum www.active.com

FrOSTY FuN ruN & 5K TrAIL rAce9:30am @ Crows Lake

www.runnersfit.com

WeeKLY

cYcLING rIDeSTo join ride visit

www.athensgabicycling.com


Life Zone Feature

other articles46 . . . . . . . . . . . . Making.a.Difference

48 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kid.Fiction

50 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inspiring.MOVES

What is it like to be a

Vegetarian?

athensMOVE.com 43

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

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

Both of these statements are obviously wrong. Being a vegetarian for 18 years was probably the best thing I could have done for my body. Broadly defined, a vegetarian is a person who does not eat meat, poultry, and fish. Vegetarians eat mainly fruit, vegetables, legumes (dry fruit and beans), grains, seeds, and nuts. Many vegetarians eat eggs and/or dairy products, but avoid hidden animal products such as beef and chicken stocks, lard, and gelatin.

Generally, there are three ways most vegetarians are classified: vegans or total vegetarians, lactovegetarians and lacto-ovo-vegetarians:

Vegans or total vegetarians exclude all animal products (e.g. meat, poultry, fish, eggs, milk, cheese, and other dairy products) from their diet.

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

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

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

by Avni Patel, student in the UGA Health Promotion & Behavior program

KIDS’ VIEWSDid you know ...?

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

• A variety of nutrients, including vitamins and minerals

• About the same requirements for fat

• Almost the same amount of protein (although an athlete needs slightly more than a non-athlete)

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

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

not buying meat can go toward paying just

a little extra for nondairy milk and other

healthy staples, like fruits and vegetables.

Some people also worry that with a

vegetarian diet, individuals aren’t able

to consume adequate amounts of the

essential nutrients needed to be healthy.

Vegetarian and total vegetarian diets

both provide adequate protein. The daily-

recommended intake for protein is 0.8

grams/kilograms and can be consumed

through a variety of healthier sources such

as soy, rice, beans, hummus, peanut butter,

etc. Vitamin B12 is found only in animal

products and as a result, vegetarians

should take a supplement form of B12.

Fortified cereals and grain products are a

reliable source of vitamin B12. Calcium can

be obtained from leafy greens, vegetables,

broccoli, almonds, carrots, and so on. And


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

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

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

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

athensMOVE.com 45

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

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

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

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

For more information, check these websites:

www.eatright.org • www.vrg.org

www.heart.org • www.vegetariantimes.com

kidshealth.org/teen/food_fitness/nutrition/vegetarian.html

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

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

legumes, and whole grains the focus of your meals. Fortunately, there is much more information available on vegetarian diets today to make the journey smoother. The way to lasting change is by taking small steps on your way to that goal.

GivinG Kids a s.P.a.R.C.

Bishop Park wasn’t the only home turf of the championship Downtown Falcons 12U

football team this season. On September 30, Athens’ sports performance training facility,

S.P.A.R.C., welcomed these young athletes to an evening of speed and agility training

designed just for them. High fives and aerial body bumps filled the room as each player’s

individual talents were showcased. Whose 20-yard-dash was the fastest? Whose vertical jump

was highest? These were top news stories of the evening!


by Sherri Goggin, director of the Mulherin Foundation for Health & Wellness

Life Zone Making a Difference

athensMOVE.com 47

By the end of the two-hour session, every-one was energized with a bragging right! S.P.A.R.C. general manager and Olympic gold medalist, Adam Nelson, wanted to give these young players an up-close and personal feel of what an elite athlete’s train-ing regimen looks like. In addition to the competitive speed and agility drills, the team was instructed on proper technique and strategies to improve their skill level.

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

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

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

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

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

AthensOrthopedicClinic.com | 706.433.4030 | 125 King Ave., Athens, GA

Keeping the Care in Urgent Care.

A T H E N S O R T H O P E D I C C L I N I C

Adult & pediatric care . On-site X-rayOpen 7 days a week . No appointment necessary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

After making the varsity basketball team last year as a sophomore, Cassie knew her junior year would hold high expectations. Her coach had the customary one-on-one meetings with all of the players, making sure they knew where they stood on the team, what their responsibilities were, that they needed to keep their grades up, and so on.

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

“How do you feel like practices are going?”

Cassie always felt like this was a trick question, and tried her best to guess what The Shell wanted to hear. “They’re good. Tough, sometimes, but we’re learning a bunch of stuff right now so it’ll be kinda iffy for a while.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Wanna trade?” Mick grinned at his companion.

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

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

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

“I think it’s more like a hobby.” Mick answered, face screwed into focus as he tried to run and think at the same time. “You don’t play track, you don’t go to a track game. You don’t even meet people at meets.”

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

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

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

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


by Clint Foster

Life Zone Kid fiction

SECOND SEASONPart 3 of 6

athensMOVE.com 49

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

“My heart rate.”

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

None of his frustration mattered now. The doctor had told him it would be at least six months until he could do anything without the brace. So here he was, sitting in the weight room with one leg completely stretched out, lifting the dumbbells and already focusing on next year.

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

“Yeah, just … frustrated, you know?” The playoffs had already started, and his team had won two games without him. He was proud, but it stung that he felt like they didn’t need him to win.

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

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

“And speedo.”

The two shared a moment of levity

that helped ease their workouts. Mick finished up his run about the time Ricky gave up trying to do single-leg squats. They walked out into the cool afternoon together, cracking jokes until they went their separate ways.

The Second Season is in full swing as an ongoing feature that follows the story of kids just like you. Fifth grader Ben just finished his first football season and has decided

that’s not the sport for him. Ricky – one of Ben’s older sister Cassie’s friends – is an

upperclassmen who is considered a leader, even though now he’s injured. Check back

each issue to follow along as Cassie, Ricky, Carlos, and Mick play, study, and

grow up together.

Clint Foster is a Georgia native. Read more from Clint at www.facebookcom/ClintFoster-

Author and www.clint-foster.com.

Strong in CharaCter

and name

At a time when the news is filled with stories of

professional athletes who are abusing drugs,

cheating, breaking laws and just behaving badly,

we start to question if they are the best role models for

kids. The problem is that we just hear about the few

bad ones. We seldom hear about the many outstanding

current and former professional athletes who are giving

back in their communities and inspiring kids and adults

alike. In the greater Athens area, Carlos Strong is just that

kind of person.

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

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


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

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

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


how good you are on the court, you can’t

Life Zone inspiring Moves

athensMOVE.com 52

"There were kids better than I was, but they

went down the wrong road and that’s the

message I am trying to give to kids."

To schedule your mammogram today,

call 706.475.4960 or go online to

AthensHealth.org/GetMammo.

Watch Stephanie’s story at AthensHealth.org/Cancer

In his decades as a surgeon, Dr. Cody Gunn had never met a patient quite like Stephanie

Sharp. While most patients are understandably nervous about the process of healing and look

to their physicians and caregivers for guidance, Stephanie approached her challenge by

taking the reigns and leading her team into battle. And thanks to Dr. Gunn and her entire

team eff orts of her physicians, nurses, caregivers, friends and family members, Stephanie is

cancer free and is dedicated to helping other women during their recovery journeys.

Dr. Cody GunnStephanie’s Surgeon,

ARMC

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

Athens MOVE - December 2014 - January 2015

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Transcript of Athens MOVE - December 2014 - January 2015