In the 1930s, a manmade ecological disaster of epic proportions swept the American Midwest and threatened to destroy the nation’s bread basket. The Dust Bowl, as it became known, turned prairies into deserts and unleashed a pattern of massive, deadly dust storms that for many seemed to herald the end of the world. The story of this national calamity is captured in famed filmmaker Ken Burns’ newest documentary, THE DUST BOWL, premiering Sunday, Nov. 18 and Monday, Nov.19 at 7:00 p.m. on Alabama Public Television.

Thomas D Atkinson, who heads up the local Madison County USDA/FSA says, "Although the storms of the Dust Bowl did not reach Alabama, the measures taken to prevent future tragedies had a major impact on Alabama agriculture.  That’s why people throughout the state should tune in to see the two-night, four-hour film. "

The next couple of days are looking brutal as we go through weekend. If you are not heading to the lake or the pool this weekend, your options in staying cool are limited. After all if you stay at home, eventually is going to get boring and the book you been meaning to finish will be finished...hopefully. I have some other options to beat the heat.

1. Time to break out Rock Band! You remember that game right? You slap the bass, have your buddy plays lead guitar, your roommate who is always mad at you beating on the drums, and find someone comfortable enough to sing in front of the rest of the group. With a huge library of songs to play from the game or download, this game will last for hours. Depending on the songs that are played, this could be a family fun affair!  You could even have theme parties where everyone has to dress like a rocker or the decade. Let your imagination run wild on this.

By Matthew Cenzon

Halloween is a fun time of the year for kids and adults alike. With all the costumes, candy and festive decorations, it's easy to get swept up into the spirit of Halloween. Before you make some impulse buys on all the Halloween decorations sprouting up at local department stores or markets, consider these suggestions for affordable alternatives to decorate your home.