EVENT Magazine July - August 2018

HUNTSVILLE

Rocket City Bash | Super Hero Shindig | Heart Ball | Huntsville Classic | Deb Tea JULY / AUGUST 2018

MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 4

Feature

Women in Business

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Upcoming Live Events Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo July 18 | Mark C. Smith Concert Hall Sugarland July 27 | Propst Arena PLT Party: MercyMe & Andy Mineo August 3 | Propst Arena Riley Green August 9 | Mark C. Smith Concert Hall Jim Parker’s Songwriters Series Auguat 10 | Playhouse Gallagher August 16 & 18 | Playhouse Jerry Seinfeld August 17 | Mark C. Smith Concert Hall Jeanne Robertson August 19 | Mark C. Smith Concert Hall

Riley Green

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July / August 2018

EVENT Magazine

Contents

18 Publisher’s Letter

26

22 16th Annual Huntsville Heart Ball

Events

50th Anniversary Dinner for Virginia Hammill Simms Award

46

Debutante Mother Daughter Tea

Voices of Our Times: Carolyne Roehm

54

Rocket City Bash

26

A Night for Casa

56

30th Annual Huntsville Classic

28

45th Annual Crescen-Dough Auction

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

24

16th Annual Huntsville Heart Ball

98 30

HMA’s Foothills to Fine Art

36

Junior League of Huntsville’s 80’s Prom

38

Madison County Athletic Hall of Fame

40

Super Hero Shindig

42

HudsonAlpha Spring Benefit

Advanced Life Open House Steve Marshall at The Reserve at Lake Guntersville

100

Hiley Mazda VW Groundbreaking Hartlex Antique Gallery Open House

102

EmpowHer Workshop Meyer & Lee 2nd Anniversary Sonoma Ribbon Cutting

94 Huntsville Happenings

56

Super Hero Shindig

Huntsville Classic

Editorials 32

Taste: Summer Catch

48

Experts Corner: Hormone Imbalance

50

Business Profile: Redstone Federal Credit Union

59

Feature: Women In Business Introduction by Joanne Randolph

92

Spotlight: Leslie Ecklund

32

On The Cover: Paula & Samantha Mahalik at the Debutante Mother Daughter Tea Photo by Steve Babin

59 16

96 Calendar

40

A Night for Casa

44

22

20 Editor’s Letter

www.eventhuntsville.com

92

www.eventhuntsville.com

17

What an exciting issue we have in store for you. Of course we have been covering events all spring and early summer, but the icing on the cake is Women in Business.

Although women have been working in business for decades, their presence in the workforce is growing ever stronger. Not only are women climbing the corporate ladder, they are leading the charge! Here in Huntsville, there are many womenowned businesses. From nonprofit organizations, government contractors to restaurateurs and medicine, women have made their way into the entire spectrum of today’s business. They have proven themselves equal to their counterparts and adept at multitasking in fast-paced environments of business nowadays.

In this issue we have featured a number of women who have made or are making a name for themselves in our business community. These women, largely entrepreneurs, are taking risks that many of us only dream of: risking reputation, finances and valuable time with friends and family to achieve the American dream. I applaud each one of them.

We’ve been covering the latest events here in the Valley such as the Rocket City Bash, Junior League of Huntsville’s 80’s Prom, NCAC Super Hero Shindig.

Frankly there is no shortage of charitable events to get behind and show your support. I hope each of us can find a cause close to our hearts and support it as much as we can.

As always, please shop with the businesses you see advertising in this issue. There are several reasons why I ask you to do so. They are the reason we are able to bring EVENT Magazine to you. They allow us to help provide a voice for the many nonprofit organizations, and many of the businesses are women-owned!

Enjoy Summer Huntsville!

Scan the QR Code below to visit our website eventhuntsville.com

Todd Stephenson President/Publisher

18

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EVENT

HUNTSVILLE

A Letter from the Publisher

MAGAZINE

President/Publisher Todd Stephenson Editor Lori Boatfield Writers Amanda Allen Suzanne Conway Melissa Gerrish Contributing Writers Joanne Randolph Judy Ryals Creative Director/Graphic Design Patty Satterly Website/Graphic Design Scott Seeley Graphic Design Amy Pearson Aiden Silvers Lead Photographer Steve Babin Photographers Reginald Allen Mark Jaeger Jeff White Isaiah Williams Contributing Photographer Katie Martin Director of Sales Carolyn Stephenson Account Executives Ann Lane Lee Nast Distribution Victor Mace Huntsville EVENT Magazine is published bi-monthly by Event Magazine, LLC, P.O. Box 14219, Huntsville, AL 35815 For advertising information please call 256.533.8078 or e-mail advertise@eventhuntsville.com For editorial information or to request coverage of an event, please visit our web site at www.eventhuntsville.com

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION Huntsville EVENT Magazine is published bi-monthly by EVENT Magazine, LLC. Although the magazine is distributed free throughout the area in Athens, Decatur, Fayetteville, Guntersville, Huntsville, Madison and Owens Cross Roads, paid subscriptions are available for $25.00 annually. For new subscriptions or changes of address, call 256.533.8078 or email subscriptions@eventhuntsville.com.

All contents © 2018. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use in whole or in part of the contents without the prior written permission of the publisher is prohibited.

Huntsville Event Magazine is a registered trademark of Event Magazine, LLC. All rights reserved. Unsolicited photographs or articles are submitted at the risk of the photographer or author. Event Magazine, LLC assumes no liability for the return of any unsolicited materials and may use them at its discretion.

To Submit an Ad or Event to EVENT Magazine please call us 256.533.8078 or visit our website eventhuntsville.com

MIX BUSINESS WITH PLEASURE. INDULGE YOUR SWEET TOOTH. HAVE YOUR STEAK AND EAT IT, TOO.

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Editor’s Note

Lashes by Cil Lash

Hair by Sonya Crews

Photo by Steve Babin

As cliché as this is gonna sound, I’m going to say it anyway. Careful what you wish for, right? I wanted warmer weather. I even went so far as to wish for some other weather than cold to complain about. Did I ever get my wish! But even with the soaring temperatures, I’m still glad for the slower pace of the days, the fact that not everyone in the house has to be dressed and ready so early, and that vacation beckons, ever so sweetly in the midst of it all.

And speaking of being in the midst of it all, I’m so happy to reveal the subjects of our featured editorial: people who are in the midst of businesses of every shape and size in our fair city. I know you’ll be eagerly anticipating this issue’s feature – Women in Business! Peruse these pages for the women who really make things happen in Huntsville.

Plus, we shine our Spotlight on Leslie Ecklund, CEO of Burritt on the Mountain, a Huntsville native who, after living away has made her way home again. Our Featured Business, Redstone Federal Credit Union, shares the resources it offers Women in Business.

While the weather has heated up, so has our event season. We’ve been burning up the pavement covering some favorites and a few first time events sure to become hits. With so many organizations doing good, if you’re looking to get involved, there’s a place for you to do just that.

While you’re scanning the superheroes from the Super Hero Shindig don’t forget to check out the advertisers who make this publication possible. Shop with them, eat at their tables, utilize their services, and don’t forget to tell them you saw them right here in EVENT Magazine!

Happy Summer!

Lori Boatfield Editor

20

www.eventhuntsville.com

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Ron & Pat Volinski

Michelle Lewzader, Kim Lewis

Healthier Hearts for Huntsville

Anna Halicka, Dr. Dorothy Davidson, Katie Bosarge, David Gregory

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Steve Babin The 16th annual Huntsville Heart Ball was held on April 28, 2018 at the Davidson Center, U.S. Space and Rocket Center. The Heart Ball is a premier black-tie event that celebrates the American Heart Association’s mission to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.

375 guests attended, including Dr. Marc Bendickson, the 2018 Huntsville Heart Ball Chair; Dr. Paul Tabereaux, who was honored as Physician of the Year; and Jim Hudson, who was honored as the Heart of the Community Recipient. This year’s top sponsors were Dr. and Mrs. Marc Bendickson, Dynetics, and Huntsville Hospital.

Vicki Stickels, TC Wong

Ron & Ann Upton

“Heart disease is still the number one killer in America and your efforts and contribution on behalf of the American Heart Association are vital in this battle that affects nearly every family. We are thankful for the medical professionals, the doctors, nurses, technicians, researchers, administrators and others who contribute their expertise, time and energy in improving heart health, diagnosis and treatment,” said Dr. Marc Bendickson. n

Blake & Nicole Roden, Katiya & Mark McKinney

Skip & Angel Stinson

22

Keith Matthews, Cynthia Joiner

Rebecca Bawcom, Chris Penney, Katie Cochran, Kelly Durham, Mary Ivy Cost

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Heather Baker, Alka Bhargav

Frank Nola, Mary Susan Johnson

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

HMA’s Voices of Our Times: An Afternoon with Carolyn Roehm

Sarah Gessler, Xan Curran, Cathy Scholl, Leslie Crosby, Carolyne Roehm, Shelbie King, Patsy Haws

Photos by Steve Babin The Huntsville Museum of Art hosted its final installation of the season’s Voices of Our Times series on April 5, 2018.

The successful series wrapped up with a sold-out luncheon featuring style icon and lifestyle maven, Carolyne Roehm. The 150 guests were welcomed with a glass of champagne and enjoyed a delicious meal catered by Chef Narvell as they listened to their enchanting speaker discuss art, design, gardens and more.

Christopher Madkour, Jean Yewell

Cindy Spillers, Jean Templeton, Shelbie King

Series Sponsors were Colonial Printing, Donny’s Diamond Gallery, PNC; Lead Event Sponsor was Jean Wessel Templeton.

Voices of Our Times is an annual three-part series that brings people of note in the arts, academia, design, publishing and politics to the Huntsville Museum of Art for candid, in-depth discussions and presentations. The series began in 2012. This is one of the largest fundraisers for the Museum. n

Jennifer Wu, Marie Newberry, Sally Barnett, Mary Grace Evans, Kathi Tew, Carol Tevepaugh, Martha Wilson

Eula Battle, Ellen Robinson, Kitty Simmons

Carolyne Roehm, Jean Yewell

24

Sheree LeMon, Cheryl Brazelton, Anna Warren

Anne Lewis, Marie Newberry, Rosemary Latham, Linda Akenhead, Suzanne O’Connor

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Kevin & Joy Hall

Ryan & Sarah Manning

Tamara & Lee Fox

Jacob & Lyndsey Voss

David Cochran, Hal Brewer, Stephanie Hendon

Jeannie & Doug Baker, Susie Milam

CASA Celebrates Days Gone By PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Steve Babin CASA of Madison County decided to “Bring Vintage Back” for its major annual fundraiser, A Night for CASA. On April 20, the Care Assurance System for the Aging and Homebound (CASA) of Madison County hosted an evening of food, fun and giving back to a great cause. The event was presented by sponsor Intuitive Research and was held in the Grand Hall at the Huntsville Botanical Garden.

The evening was filled with dancing to tunes of bygone days, along with fun in the photo booth. “We had a great time honoring the decades, while educating our community about those who lived and worked hard in days gone by, but who now need our help,” said Executive Director of CASA of Madison County, Ann Anderson. n

David Cochran, Alice & Steve Lessmann

Jacinda Swinehart

Brandi & David Cook

26

Eric St. John, Victoria Wiseman

Joe & Claudia Bucher, Carolyn & Jim Rountree

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

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Alison Junen, Sharon Hicks

Bill & Tanjie Kling

Don Rizzardi, Jeanne Rasco, Matt Rouse, Joanna May, David & Pat Patterson

Crescen-Dough Features 45 Years of Fabulous Finds Photos by Steve Babin

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

The 45th Annual Crescen-Dough Auction was April 13 at the Von Braun Center North Hall. The event is a fun-filled evening of bidding, socializing, and dining organized by the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Guild supporting the HSO and music education.

Music education is the primary focus of the Guild. In cooperation with the Symphony School and the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra, the Guild makes possible Third Grade Violin Education for more than 3,000 children in 40 schools; the free Young People’s Concerts for thousands of area 4th graders; the hands-on instrument “Petting Zoo” at Panoply; and the FREE Family Concert.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter provided the backdrop for this year’s themed Fantasy Auction, with stunning jewelry, fabulous trips, beautiful artwork, unique parties, gifts and personal services.Catered by VBC with flowers and décor arranged by the HSOG Crescen-Dough Auction Committee, the 625 guests were entertained

by HSO Pianist Eric Wilson.

Courtney Allen, Diane Strickland, Belinda Ivy

Major sponsors included Servis1st Bank, Jerry Damson Honda Acura and HighTower Twickenham. n

Paige, Bill & Jordan Hanks, Todd & Carolyn Stephenson

Zack & Chris Penney

Anna & Bryan Ward

Lisa & David Bruce, Pat & Ron Volinski, Phyllis & Hobie Frady

28

Rick & Becky Harris, Patti & Charles Walker

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

www.eventhuntsville.com

29

Rhonda Mitchell, Annette Birchfield, Jackie Ginsburg, Mimi Salmon Austin, Julie Andrzejewski Debbie Washburn, Martha Wilson, Kathy Tew, Alan Shuptrine

Bluegrass, Boots & Appalachian Roots PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Steve Babin Foothills to Fine Art was the Huntsville Museum of Art’s May 10 opening celebration for the exhibition, Alan Shuptrine: The Serpentine Chain, which features watercolor paintings by Tennessee artist Alan Shuptrine that pays tribute to the land and people found along the Appalachian Trail.

The Huntsville Museum of Art Guild hosts a large fundraiser around an exhibition opening once a year. Proceeds from the event benefit the Museum.

Around 300 guests attended the event with entertainment provided by The Wilson Banjo Co. Lead Sponsor was Redstone Federal Credit Union.

Alan & Bonny Shuptrine, Christopher Madkour

“‘Foothills to Fine Art’ was more than a fundraising event,” commented HMA Guild President, Julie Andrzejewski. “It was an opportunity to experience the wonders and riches of the Appalachian Trail through a multi-sensory journey fulfilled by art, dining, a whiskey and moonshine tasting, and live music performed by the Wilson Banjo Co.!” n

Amanda & Perry Washburn Teresa Chambers, Josie Lipscomb Peter & Susan Baldaia

Randy Roper, Ken Rivenbark

30

Sonja Enfinger, Laura Vann

Jessica & Grant Gaines

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Mike Curry, PJ Drayton, David Kendall

October 4, 2018 Huntsville Country Club Doors open at 5:00

To register for any or all activities or to make a donation www.chili4charity.org For more information contact: Brooke Brunsvold and Lee Nast at 205.352.7620

Chili cook-off Golf Tournament tee off at noon Poker Tournament Silent Auction Children’s activities

Keller Williams Huntsville partners with HCC to help raise money and awareness for Not One More Alabama www.eventhuntsville.com

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Taste

Summer Catch Summertime calls for lazy days, a slower pace and just maybe throwing a line into the water; be it the creek, the pond or the open sea. Luckily, with our Taste feature, we take the tackle box out of the equation. Check out the freshest catches Huntsville’s hottest spots have to offer for summer!

32

Grilled Shrimp Taco Rollin Lobstah

With fresh mango salsa, avocado and cilantro

Photo by Steve Babin

Gulf Red Snapper Hunan Style The Bottle Spicy sweet seafood dipping sauce from Hunan Province; ginger, garlic, and lemon grass with stir fry local vegetables and microgreens

Photo by Steve Babin

33

Pan Seared Cobia The Ledges

With johnnycake, charred corn avocado and tomato salad, cilantro lime vinaigrette

Photo by Katie Martin

Pond Raised Whole Catfish Gibson’s Bar-B-Q

Cornmeal dusted and deep fried, accompanied with Gibson’s own tartar sauce

34

Photo by Steve Babin

Drake's Poke Bowl Drake’s

Choice of tuna or salmon, sushi rice, avocado, pickled radish and carrot, jalapeno, wasabi mayo, Sriracha, wakame, citrus ponzu sauce and sesame seeds

Photo by Steve Babin

Chilled Seafood Tower Ruth’s Chris Steak House An array of Maine lobster, Alaskan king crab legs, jumbo shrimp and colossal lump blue crab

35

Anna Stinson, Kate Moon, Kaitlynn Roark, Casey Papp, Amy Roark

The Junior League Throws Back to the 80’s

Front Row Nicole Coppinger, Amy Roark, Casey Papp Back Row Sydney Coats, Augusta Walker, Katie Bouldin, Cathryn Schartung-Doud

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Steve Babin March 31 marked prom night for the Junior League, but not just any prom, an 80’s prom to raise funds for Huntsville’s Butterfly Project.

Around 200 guests attended the inaugural event at EarlyWorks with flowers and décor provided by the Butterfly Committee. Taco Mama catered the event with a late night snack provided by Waffle House. Prom goers danced the night away to the music of Seducing Alice. Sponsors included Crossflow Technologies, Torch Technologies and Turner Construction.

The Butterfly Project works with guidance counselors and teachers at thirteen high schools in Madison County to find girls who show commitment to academia, exhibit leadership qualities, and demonstrate an ability to persevere in the face of hardship.

These girls are invited to shop at the Butterfly Boutique and take home a dress, shoes and accessories for prom night free of charge. A handful of Butterfly winners are ultimately awarded Monarch Scholarships to further their educations. This year the Butterfly Project awarded five scholarships totaling $12,000. n

Brian Brown, Kelly Parker

Danelle Hackney, Jen Amberson

Seth & Augusta Walker

Kyle & Sallie Stokes

36

Sarah & Andy Spear

“Seducing Alice”

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Dr. Randy & Lauren Riehl

Becky Plott, Kerry St. John

Athletes and Coaches Honored for Excellence

Wendy Stewart, Mandi Panter, Brandi Hall, Renea Horton

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Steve Babin The Huntsville Madison County Athletic Hall of Fame celebrated this year’s induction of athletes and coaches on April 9 at the VBC. With nearly 1000 attendees at the event, the special guests were the inductees - former high school and collegiate athletes and coaches: Lennie Acuff, Dan Bell, Keith Humphrey, Mandy Miller, Tom Monroe, Gloria Morgan-Farier, Becky Plott, Al Rauls, Kurt Senn, Richard Smock, Les Stuedeman and Rod Willie.

The meal was catered by the VBC with flowers and décor arranged by a committee from the Hall of Fame Board of Directors.

Kelly & Lennie Acuff

Rod, Olivia & Darcie Willie

“This event allows us to induct former high school and collegiate athletes and coaches who not only have excelled in sports but excel in the community,” said Patrick Wynn, Huntsville Madison County Athletic Hall of Fame Board Member. n

Richard Smock, Janice Spray, Ginger & Kevin Ralston Becky Balentine, Jacqueline Richards

Molly & Will Acuff, Kerri Whittaker

Willie & Bernice Hamilton, Gina Scoll Robinson, Sharon Nickleberry, Verona Fitzhugh

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Karl Tunon, Les Stuedeman, Mary Kelly, Jaycee Affeldt

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

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AmandaHoward.com © MMXVIII Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. All Rights Reserved. Belvedere Palace New Weimar is used with permission. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a licensed trademark to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated.

Nicci Freeland, Rachel & Ricky Kepler, Andy McGregor, Nan Stuart

Chris & Natalie Roth, Kristen & Mike Spachtholz

Super Hero Shindig PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Isaiah Williams The National Children’s Advocacy Center held its inaugural Super Hero Shindig on April 20 at the NCAC Campus to raise funds and awareness to support abused children.

Around 300 guests attended, including Congressman Bud Cramer, and Mayor Tommy and Eula Battle.

Community super heroes were recognized at the event: Community Advocate Bud Cramer for his foresight and dedication in starting the NCAC (this will become the Bud Cramer Community Advocate Award to be awarded annually;) Medical – John Meares from Crestwood Hospital for his dedication to children of the community; Education – Eula Battle for Free to Teach and its dedication to help teachers and students throughout Madison County; Military – Carlos Fernandez, Retired Army for his translation services to the NCAC; and the Multi-Disciplinary Team of the NCAC for their dedication and service in the intervention and prosecution of child sexual abuse.

Larry & Kim Lewis, Chris Newlin, Bud Cramer, Eula & Tommy Battle

Amy & Todd Gandy

Sponsors were Crestwood Hospital, Boeing Corporation and Redstone Federal Credit Union.

“What a great first time event! The atmosphere was amazing and fun and I learned so much about the NCAC and the Super Heroes who support its mission and the children in our community,” said Amy Gandy, Development Associate for NCAC. n

Buff Gibbons, Dr. Paula Wolfteich, Erica Hochberger, Linda Steele, Kelli Mukaddam, Theresa Girgis, December Guzzo

40

Debbie Smith, Patricia McCarter, Cindy Howard

Leslie Rice, Molli Kirby

Julie Anglin, Wesley & Abi Hardin

Kiley Rikard, Hillary Cross

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

www.eventhuntsville.com

41

Nicole & Jada Leo, Rebekah Perry

Cindy & Richard Jackson

HudsonAlpha Spring Benefit Honors a Decade of Discovery

Jim & Lynn Hudson, Patsy & Bob Riley

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Steve Babin HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology hosted the annual Spring Benefit April 26, where more than 600 HudsonAlpha supporters gathered at the Jackson Center to celebrate the institute’s ten-year anniversary and a Decade of Discovery.

Attendees heard institute leaders, supporters and state leaders discuss HudsonAlpha’s impact on their lives and the community. Special guest speakers included Governor Bob Riley.

Jane & Jim Hays, Loretta Spencer, Rick Myers, Wendy Yang

“What you are doing in North Alabama is different from anything else and people want to come to Huntsville, Ala.,” said Riley.

“Lonnie and I wanted to make biotechnology a permanent fixture in economic development in the state,” said Jim Hudson, co-founder of HudsonAlpha. “It’s been ten years and everything that we dreamed of has come true.”

Funds raised at the Spring Benefit will support HudsonAlpha’s Decade of Discovery: Building for the Future campaign. More information can be found by visiting hudsonalpha.org/foundation/naming-opportunities. n

Amy Sturdivant, Margetta Thomas, Vanessa Wamsley

42

Pam & Bill Holtzclaw

Samantha & Trey Bentley

Tim & Jenny Bachman

Shawn Askins, Shari Crowe

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

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Kathy Chan, Billie Grosser, Marie Newberry, Jennifer Swoboda, Patti Thornton, Susan Webb, Sally Priester, Barbara Price, Mark Eccleston

Lady Shivers Tucker, Geraldine Mills Schaffer, Sherry Polk, Joan May

Awards Dinner Celebrates Volunteers in the Arts PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Steve Babin The Virginia Hammill Simms Awards Dinner held their 50th annual event April 7 at the Von Braun Center. The event celebrates volunteers in the arts nominated for the Virginia Hammill Simms Award, and the Katherine and Richard Lester Awards.

This year honored guests were Al Head, Director of the Alabama State Council on the Arts, who was Master of Ceremonies; and keynote speaker, Alabama-born Susanna Phillips, an internationally celebrated soprano.

Anita Kennedy, Elise Taylor

Libby McBride, Billie Grosser

Jamie Saunders, Ina Wilson Smith, Julie Andrzejewski

JesHenry & Tabitha Malone

Catering was provided by the Von Braun Center, with decorations and flower arrangements provided by Community Ballet Association’s co-chairmen of the awards committee. Huntsville Youth Orchestra violinists Joy and Felicia Onawola performed during the dinner.

The co-chairs expressed appreciation for the Community Ballet Association who founded and continues to sponsor the event; Anglin, Reichmann, Snellgrove & Armstrong, who provided the official count for judging process, as well as Big Glass Art for designing an original award for each winner.

“The Virginia Hammill Simms Awards have provided recognition of volunteerism in the arts, and more importantly the transformational impact the arts have had in our community for 50 years,” said Elise Taylor and Anita Kennedy, 2018 VHS Awards Dinner Co-Chairs. n

Margaret Alford, Audra Lockwood

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Jennifer & Michael Lapidus

Michelle Newberry Epling, Courtney Allen, Margaret Alford, Shelby Pearsall

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Constantly

FATIGUED?

You might need to consider Hormone Replacement Therapy!

Take this test: Y

N I am tired almost every day.

I am taking or have taken birth control pills.

My hands and feet are almost always cold.

My skin is always dry.

I have a hard time losing weight, no matter how hard I try.

I feel like I have “brain fog” – I don’t think clearly.

I seem like I am constantly irritable, perhaps due to fatigue.

My anxiety seems to be more frequent and intense.

I frequently experience constipation.

(Women) I have really heavy or irregular periods.

I’m losing a lot of my hair.

I’ve been told I’m depressed, but I think it’s simply that I feel lousy all the time.

If you said yes to five or more of the above statements, chances are high that something is wrong with your thyroid function. At QC Wellness and QuickCare Clinic we frequently see patients dealing with low thyroid and other hormone abnormalities. Many of these patients have been told that “everything is normal” despite how they feel. This leaves the patient wondering, “What’s going on with me?"

Even Jillian Michaels, star trainer from The Biggest Loser, said, after getting all her hormones checked and finding that she was low in thyroid, “All of a sudden, I had a completely plausible explanation for all the symptoms I’d ignored or denied for so many years…my peaks and troughs of energy, and, yes, those fifteen instant pounds. The uniting factor was my hormones.”

There are many things that can impact your thyroid function. Nutrient deficiency, environmental toxins, autoimmune issues even other hormones! The best way to know if you have issues is to come in for an evaluation. We can draw your blood, run labs, then schedule you a consultation and treatment with one of our hormone specialist. Give us a call and we’ll get you started today!"

HUNTSVILLE 202 Governors Drive • Ph: 256.517.8317

NOW SERVING MADISON! 7500 Highway 72 • Ph: 256.964.8338

www.quickcarenow.com Mon-Fri 8am-8pm • Sat 9am-6pm • Sun 12pm-6pm Walk ins welcome. Blood draws M-F from 8am-9:30am.

Sat at 9:00am.

Jennifer Lapidus, Jamie Saunders, Tricia Murray

Christi & Bentley League

Debutante Tea Kicks off Social Season

Samantha & Susannah Thompson, Rachel & Jana Caudle

Photos by Steve Babin

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

2018 Symphony Ball debutantes and their mothers enjoyed afternoon tea May 16th at the home of Guild Past President, Pamela Gann. The previous year’s Ball Chairman hosts the annual event and this year, Patti Thornton continued the tradition. The Debutante Tea marks the official start of the Debutante social season.

Attending were the 37 young women who make their debut at the 55th Symphony Ball, October 27, together with their mothers, and the members of the 2018 Ball Committee, past Guild Presidents and officers, past Ball Chairmen, and the wives of the Ball advisors.

Cheryl & Sara Parker Bence, Mary Elliott & Caroline Aderholt

The young women enjoyed catching up after their freshman year of college as they savored the delicious tea menu catered by Carlton’s Catering. The centerpiece in the dining room, as well as the flowers in the den, were towering arrangements by In Bloom Floral Design Studio, with beautiful spring flowers of white and pink roses, pink peonies, snapdragons, lilies and orchids.

The Symphony Ball, sponsored by the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Guild since 1964, is an annual fundraiser benefiting the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra. n Judy & Anna Worthington

Kelly & Betsy Hamm

Sarla & Raquel Scherlis

Liz Giles Calvert, Virginia Wahlheim

Melea & Laura Horton, Emma Lacey & Dr. Donna Havrisik

Patti Thornton, Debbie Washburn, Pam Gann, Marie Newberry

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Annie & Emily Clark

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Gigi & Bailey Lose

Experts Corner Alison Wellness

Hormone

imbalance in Women

Expert’s Corner Presented by Alison Wellness

As we age, hormone production changes, and hormonal imbalance can result. Unbalanced hormones can have a variety of side effects and symptoms. While hormones are the necessary chemical messengers that target reactions in the body, in the wrong quantities, they can act as dispatchers of doom – causing erratic mood swings, irregular body temperature, poor sleep, weight gain and sexual dysfunction.

What are the causes?

Hormone imbalance in women can occur as part of the natural aging process and may reflect genetic predispositions for certain conditions. However, hormone balance is affected by the food we eat, exercising and the amount of stress we experience.

Did you know that hormones do a lot more than regulate mood and sexuality? They determine whether you will be at risk for diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s, and thyroid disease.

Manager Christy Alison of Alison Wellness. “Here’s why:” BioTE® Physicians are well-trained by experts who have years of hormone replacement therapy experience. BioTE® dosing is exact. Through precise testing and proper consultation, the most accurate dose is prescribed for each patient’s unique body chemistry.

BioTE® Therapy delivers consistent levels of hormone replacement for months at a time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

How often do patients need pellets?

3-5 months for women, 4-6 months for men. n

Your Questions Answered: What differentiates pellets from other therapies?

What is the answer for balancing hormones?

When significant health safety concerns arose in 2002 for women using synthetic hormone replacement therapies, patients and physicians began searching for alternatives. Countless women and men have now made the switch to bio-identical hormones, but hormone balance is not one-size-fits-all.

“At Alison Wellness we use the BioTE Method of Hormone Optimization almost exclusively,” said Office

48

Pellet delivery system allows your body to use the right amount of hormones as needed. Blood flows around the pellets and absorbs the hormones at exactly the right time.

How big are pellets and can you feel them?

They are no bigger than a grain of rice. Occasionally pellets may be felt underneath the skin due to swelling, this will typically disappear within 24 hours.

900 Bob Wallace Ave, Suite 111 Huntsville | 256.489.5748 alisonwellnessclinic.com

We are excited to announce our newest Financial Advisor

Carolyn S. Clowers.

With increased capacity, we are now

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS.

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Investment and Insurance Products: Are Not insured by the FDIC or any other federal government agency | Are Not deposits of or guaranteed by a bank | May Lose Value.

Well Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC (WFCS) and Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC, Members SIPC, separate registered broker-dealers and non-bank affiliates of Wells Fargo & Company.

WellsTrade® brokerage accounts are offered through WFCS. © 2018 Wells Fargo Advisors. All rights reserved.

HappyHiller.com ©2018 Hiller Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical LLC. All Rights Reserved. TN 40753 KY M7125 M04924 Al 00990 Al 11121 AL 05575

W H AT A R E YOU WAI T I N G F O R ?

START TODAY !

How many times have said you would start “tomorrow?” Why wait? We have a staff that is dedicated to offer support and guidance in the areas of weight loss, wellness, and anti-aging. Through medical grade supplements, weightloss support, nutritional guidance, and nutritional panel evaluations, we are able to customize a program to help you look and feel your best.

We offer: • • • •

Medical Weight Loss Programs Nutrition Counseling Body Composition Analysis IV Vitamin Drips

• • • •

Vitamin Injections Comprehensive Lab Testing Overall Wellness Evaluations DeTox Programs

The Alison Wellness staff is dedicated to helping you build a healthier lifestyle one step at a time.

WE’VE MOVED! 900 Bob Wallace Avenue • Suite 111 • Huntsville alisonwellnessclinic.com • 256-489-5748 (Central Park Village Shopping Center on the corner of Bob Wallace Avenue and L&N Drive)

WELLNESS W E I G H T LO S S A N T I - AG I N G

www.eventhuntsville.com

49

Redstone answers your Running your own business is an exciting, yet nerve-racking adventure. There are so many details to take care of on so many different levels. At Redstone Federal Credit Union®, we’ve helped many of our Tennessee Valley neighbors start and run their own companies. Here, we will share some of the questions we hear most often from small business owners. Hopefully, our answers will help you as well!

1] What resources does Redstone offer women in business?

Redstone offers the products, services, and people needed to help you start and grow your business.

Redstone also partners with other organizations that provide helpful resources to entrepreneurs. Organizations such as the Catalyst Center for Business and Entrepreneurship—formerly the Women’s Business Center of North Alabama—and Rutherford Cable in Murfreesboro, both specialize in outreach to women business owners. In addition, Redstone’s Business Solutions team stands ready to review business plans, discuss financing options, and provide experienced guidance throughout the process.

2] What’s the best checking account for a small business?

Managing the cash flow is often a big headache for small businesses, so look for a checking account that has little to no impact on that cash flow. You can reduce any negative impact by getting an account with no monthly fee and a generous transaction allowance. Also look for a financial institution that provides discounts on other business services as a part of the checking account relationship.

At Redstone, our Endeavor Checking is perfect for small businesses. With no monthly fee, 500 free transactions a month, and a low minimum deposit required to get started, our small business members are given the best opportunity for growth. This account also provides a gateway to other great Redstone business services, such as a discount on wire transfers. You can even earn CashBack with this account by using the business debit card for your purchases!

Cash Management | Merchant Services | Business Loans & Accounts ®

Must be RFCU member or Membership Partner to open a business account, obtain a loan, or use any service. Must be eligible for membership and open a share savings account to become a member. A $5 minimum balance is required to open share savings account and must be maintained in share account at all times.

Minimum deposits, account balances, and transaction fees apply to some business accounts. Business owner must visit a branch to complete checking account setup. Signature is required for obtaining a Business Visa Debit Card. The minimum balance for the Endeavor Money Market account tier must be maintained to earn the annual percentage yield applicable for that tier. ®

Business Debit Card CashBack is a debit card reward program for business members with an Endeavor Plus Checking Account. With Business Debit Card CashBack, you will receive 10-cents CashBack for every Point of Sale (POS) debit card transaction you complete after the first four POS transactions per month from an Endeavor Plus Checking account.

Business Debit Card CashBack rewards will be posted on the 5th calendar day of each month. Only active Endeavor Plus Checking accounts in good standing will receive Business

50

Small Business questions!

3] The Cash Management industry is moving so fast. How do I keep up?

Business owners have plenty to track in their daily activities and in their long-term strategies for growth. Those who are successful learn to lean on experts to handle certain parts of the business, such as cash management and collection or business lending. For instance, Redstone can show you how the latest in cash management can actually save you time and money!

Electronic payments provide a great way to reduce paper and save time in getting paid and paying others, as well as reducing the likelihood of fraud.

And speaking of experts, John Maner, Assistant Vice President of Business Solutions at Redstone, recommends all business owners have a core group of experts as their partners.

“Know who your partners are. Make sure you have a banker, an attorney, an accountant, and an insurance agent you can count on,” says John. “Their expertise will give you and your business a great foundation.”

4] My company is really small. Is it necessary to have a separate credit card for my business?

Keeping your personal and business expenses separate is key to managing finances for both sides of your life. Having a business credit card will provide an easy way for you to track what you are buying and from whom. This will help with accounting, tax reporting, and analyzing your cash flow.

When shopping for a business credit card, look for one with benefits and rewards that work well with your style of business. For instance, some business owners travel often and can use rewards or points as a card benefit. Some business owners who stay close to their home base may prefer cards with lower rates and fees instead. At Redstone, we offer lower rates, no annual fee, rewards, and even discounts when the card is used at certain retailers. If you have employees who purchase items on the company’s behalf, they can use a card tied to your account, but with their own line of credit. This separation helps to hold everyone accountable.

5] Who can I talk to in order to get started?

Whether you need guidance on developing a business plan or just want to get your business services in order, come see the Business Solutions team at Redstone. Brooke Bell, Business Development Loan Officer, invites members to call her with any questions about getting started.

“I have the opportunity to get to know our members and really understand their business and its operations,’’ said Brooke. “This information allows me to recommend solutions that will improve their cash flow, create efficiencies, and allow the business owner to focus on their true passion—their business.” Call Brooke today at 256-327-1110.

Call us to get started, or visit redfcu.org/event

Debit CashBack rewards. Rewards will only be given for debit card POS purchases after the four per month threshold is met and will not be given for the first four purchases per month. Rewards will not be given for ATM, cash advance, or balance inquiry transactions. There is no limit on the number of rewards a business member may receive each month after the applicable threshold is met.

A business share account must be opened in the business name in order for the business to obtain a loan. Loans subject to credit approval. Fees and restrictions may apply to some business accounts, products, and services.

RFCU is an Equal Credit Opportunity Lender.

This credit union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration.

256-327-1104 | redfcu.org 51

Jim & Carolyn Rountree, Delphia Hill

Kristi Templeton, Paul Pfahler, Anna Halicka

Joe Ross, Paul Andrzejewski, James Stepien, Leah Crawford

Rocket City Bash Celebrates beneath the Saturn V PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Isaiah Williams The 5th annual Rocket City Bash was on March 27 at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center. The event is a networking/social event for the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Global Force Symposium held at the VBC. More than 800 attended, including senior Army leaders from Redstone, local community officials and industry partners. Guests were entertained by the Band Juice with dinner music by violinist Winslow Davis.

Nicole & Bill Newby, Melissa & Eddie DeVore

The sponsors of the Bash ensure its success, allowing the chapter to support local veterans, soldier programs and events. Presenting sponsor was Northrup Grumman; Platinum was WAAY-31; along with 30 additional sponsors.

“Each year, the AUSA Redstone-Huntsville Chapter hosts the Rocket City Bash at the Davidson Center, an iconic venue, beneath the Saturn V Rocket and surrounded by the history of the U.S. space program. The Global Force Symposium attendees are overwhelmed by the hospitality of Huntsville, and the Rocket City Bash provides a unique and memorable part of the event,” said Chapter President Sam Torrey. n

Kristen & Doug Hooks

54

Alice & Ray Palumbo

Mary & Mark Morrison

Mike & Cindy O’Hara

Rick Sullivan, Jennifer Rank

Jennifer Chagnon, Deborah Stokes

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Heather Taylor, Steven Henderson

Chris & Audra Lockwood

The Huntsville Classic Rocks Probst Arena Southern-Style

Mike & Christine Wicks, Ann & John Kvach

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Reginald Allen More than 4,300 guests joined Huntsville Hospital Foundation for the 30th annual Huntsville Classic featuring Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit on May 10, at the Von Braun Center Propst Arena.

Proceeds from the 2018 Huntsville Classic will provide a second Kids Care pediatric transport ambulance to serve critically-ill children and premature infants from across North Alabama. The event was co-chaired by Scott Moore, Hexagon PPM chief financial officer/chief operating officer, and Beth Richardson, Progress Bank Madison market president.

Since 1989, the Classic has raised more than $6.6 million to provide lifesaving equipment and programs for Huntsville and Madison Hospitals.

Cappy & Barnes Heyward, Tricia & Barney Heyward

The Foundation extended a special thank you to Founding Sponsor Hexagon for supporting the Huntsville Classic for 30 years.

“We cannot thank our sponsors, co-chairmen, volunteers and guests enough for their support,” said Huntsville Hospital Foundation President Candy Burnett.

“By supporting the Classic, they have made a lasting impact on patients at Huntsville Hospital.” n

Nat & Donna Richardson

Kevin & Lori Webber

56

Ramu & Lakshmi Nallamala

Taylor Suggs, Savannah Chappell

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Nikia & Dusty McCormick

It pays to have equity imagine the possibilities Open a Home Equity Line of Credit

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myprogressbank.com • 1.888.513.2288 *The introductory rate of 3.50% APR (annual percentage rate) is fixed for 12 months. At the end of the introductory period, the interest rate will convert to Wall Street Journal (WSJ) Prime Rate + 0.50% with a 4.00% rate floor OR WSJ Prime Rate + 1% with no rate floor. WSJ Prime rate is subject to change daily. WSJ Prime as of 04.02.18 is 4.75%. APR based on 4.75% interest rate is 4.819%. Maximum APR is 18.25%. Closing cost may range from $300 to $1,500. Bank pays closing costs for new HELOCs up to $250,000, subject to initial draw of $10,000 and maintaining outstanding balance of not less than $10,000 for first 180 days. Owner occupied primary or secondary personal residences only. Monthly automatic payment debit to Progress Bank checking account is required. Subject to credit approval. Consult a tax advisor regarding deductibility of interest. Offer expires 09.28.18. NMLS# 401921

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subscribe today!

256. 539. 4818 www.HSO.org

www.eventhuntsville.com

57

Professional Women Need to Look Their Best We salute women in business and our own Dr. DeGraaff, two time nominee for Woman-Owned Small Business of the Year.

Ask us about our services and how we can keep you on the top of your game.

HAYLEY DEGRAAFF, M.D. Owner / Medical Director

NON-INVASIVE COSMETIC PROCEDURES • WEIGHT LOSS • WELLNESS - BIO IDENTICAL HORMONES

Go to www.advancedlifeclinic.com to sign up for our monthly newsletter.

Follow us on

4245 Balmoral Drive, Suite 202 • Huntsville, AL 35801 • 256.882.6555 • www.advancedlifeclinic.com

Women inBusiness To celebrate the 20-year anniversary of Sex & the City, E! aired all 94 episodes over the course of one weekend. A lot changed for Carrie, Samantha, Miranda, and Charlotte over 20 years---from Samantha having a steady boyfriend and breast cancer; to Miranda having a baby, getting married, and moving to Brooklyn; to Charlotte marrying her bald-headed divorce attorney; to Carrie moving to Paris with a wealthy Russian artist only to be rescued by Mr. Big, her one and only true love.

Women entrepreneurs have also come a long way over the last 20 years. Or have they? According to an American Express 2017 study, women-owned businesses grew 114% over the last 20 years compared to the overall national growth rate of 44% for all businesses. That’s a growth rate more than 2.5 times the national average. They now own 39% of all U.S. firms, up from 26% in 1997.

But, it’s 2018. Do women entrepreneurs continue to face more hurdles than male entrepreneurs?

According to a recent 99Designs survey, the answer is yes: “We found that men and women are approaching their business in many of the same ways. But, despite this, the gender gap still exists for women when it comes to raising capital for their business. From our survey of over 3,000 entrepreneurs from around the world, our data showed that men are almost twice as likely to raise at least $100K or more in funding than women.”

Is this really true? Do women really have a harder time raising money? According to Barbara Corcoran from the ABC TV show “Shark Tank,” it is true. I had the pleasure of meeting her in Washington and hearing her testify on Capitol Hill. She was among female entrepreneurs testifying before the Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee about how to level the playing field and ensure women get equal help starting a business. “People are twice as likely to invest in a startup pitched by a man than by a woman,” testified Corcoran, a New York City real estate mogul who now invests in startups.

According to the 99Designs survey, the top challenges faced by women in business in 2018 are: • Women are less likely than men to raise $100,000 or more of outside funding for startups, which may make it more difficult to hire employees, rent office space and set reasonable work hours.

• Women are half as likely to have two or more employees.

• Women are more likely to run businesses out of their homes.

Interestingly enough, the majority of surveyed men and women agreed that not asking for help was one of their top challenges of starting a business. So, do yourself and your business a favor and ask for help when starting or growing your business.

Thank you to Huntsville EVENT Magazine for showcasing some of our outstanding women in business.

Joanne Randolph

President & CEO, The Catalyst Center for Business and Entrepreneurship

Finnegan MUA and EVENT Magazine would like to thank the Huntsville Botanical Garden, Nancy participation. their for women the all and The Masters Salon for their help with this feature,

59

Paula Steigerwald |

CEO, Huntsville Botanical Garden

Paula Steigerwald, the Chief Executive Officer of the renowned Huntsville Botanical Garden (HBG,) was raised in an Air Force family, moving across the U.S. and graduating from high school in Cherry Hill, N.J. She received her B.S. degree from Auburn University, where she met her husband, Tim. Upon graduation, she began working for Parisian where she benefited from their extensive management training programs. Her career was spent in store operations. From 1997-2002 she served as the Vice-President and Regional Director of Stores for North Ala., Tenn., Miss., Ind., Ohio, and Mich. In 2002, she left Parisian to join the HBG as the CEO. As HBG CEO, Paula has been a part of some significant projects to include the construction of Teledyne Terrace, the construction of the Children’s Garden and the Anderson Education Center and Butterfly House in 2006 and led the re-visioning of the 25-Year Master Plan for the Garden. Most recently, she led the efforts of the capital campaign to fund the new Eloise McDonald Propst Guest Center, while overseeing the design and construction phases. This transformational project for the Garden focuses on visitor amenities and includes improved accessibility, additional restrooms, Garden restaurant and Gift Shop. In addition, revenue generation from the new rental venues, with capacities from 15- 350, will continue to help sustain the mission and programs.

The Garden has received many awards to include the distinguished Kresge grant award for $250,000, the Southeast Tourism Society’s Shining Example, The State of Alabama’s Attraction of the Year and the Chamber of Commerce’s Non-Profit of the Year.

Paula has served on several boards to include United Way, Chamber of Commerce, Crestwood Medical Center and the Auburn Alumni Association National Board. She is a graduate of Leadership Huntsville and Leadership Alabama and currently serves on the Board of Directors for First Commercial Bank|Synovus. She and her husband Tim are active members of Holy Spirit Catholic Church. She has two children, both graduates of Auburn University and two perfect grandsons.

Are you a:

A thinker

Favorite Mobile Tool:

Smartphone

Your downtime is spent:

Relaxing with family and friends

On Saturday Morning:

60

A doer

A feeler

Tablet

Smartwatch Traveling

With a cocktail

Working

Sleep in

Up at dawn

Hit the gym

Work, work, work

Favorite part of your job? Working with volunteers and coaching up Who is your biggest cheerleader? My daughter Personal qualities most useful for your job? Adaptive Business philosophy? Excellence is in the execution; servant leadership Goals for the future? More time with family Mentor/Biggest influence? Parisian family, Hal Abroms How to stay competitive and successful? Commit to be better every day…grow Perfect day away from the office?

Sitting on a dock Greatest leap of faith you’ve taken in your professional life? Moving from a corporate environment to the nonprofit world Words to live by? Inspect what you expect Who is your inspiration? Volunteers at the Garden Sacrifices made for your career? Loss of time with family How is business different for women than when you started? More respect

Amanda Howard |

Founder/CEO, Amanda Howard Real Estate™

Amanda Howard is the Founder and CEO of Amanda Howard Real Estate™ which opened in November 2009 in Huntsville, Ala. She was featured as one of HousingWire’s Women of Influence and gained the endorsement of Real Estate Mogul, Barbara Corcoran. Amanda’s firm ranked #30 in the nation by REAL Trends as published in the Wall Street Journal in 2017, ranked #1 in AL for “America’s Best Real Estate Agents” by REAL Trends since 2013, and ranked in Inc. 5000 since 2015.

At the close of 2016, Amanda partnered to launch Acquire Commercial Real Estate, and in total has invested in three additional startup companies that complement her real estate services. In June 2018, Amanda Howard Real Estate officially became Amanda Howard | Sotheby’s International Realty, after being recognized and accepted as the premier Real Estate firm in North Alabama by the internationally respected Sotheby’s auction house in London, and the U.S. corporate headquarters of Sotheby’s International Realty. Amanda Howard | Sotheby’s International Realty corporate headquarters is located in Huntsville, Ala., servicing the North Alabama and Lake Guntersville communities.

Personally, Amanda, along with her husband Travis, love to travel, Crossfit, live a healthy lifestyle, and enjoy the art of business. They have been married over 23 years and have created two beautiful young ladies ages 14 and 16. Amanda’s two scariest moments in her life were nearly being swallowed by a whale and teaching a 15-yearold how to drive. (Not in order of scariest.)

Most memorable learning experience? Walking neighborhoods scouting for real estate clients with my children in a wagon because money was tight and I couldn’t afford stamps nor a babysitter. There were many very interesting encounters and experiences I went through in working this harder route and struggling through this with grace. I knew I needed to succeed and wouldn’t let any excuse deter me. It was a valuable lesson I learned and still use today in teaching on tenacity. Advice for your daughters? Figure out what it is that you LOVE to do, and build your career around that. Doing personality profiling that helps you understand who you are, your communication style, and your natural God-given skill set are all important to identify first. Then grow from there. Once you identify your chosen career, find a mentor or coach that you can rely on and meet with consistently. Be open to coaching, come with questions, take notes, and report back to them what you accomplished to keep yourself accountable and to show them that their time spent on you is worth it.

Who is your inspiration? My daughters and the legacy I want to leave for them. My husband and the time I want to spend with him to show him he’s the most important person in my life, and that I make him proud to be my partner through this life together. Free advice? As a rule, don’t blame a person. Blame the system.

Find the flaw in the system, and improve the system. I believe that people innately want to do well. If you go in attacking a person after a mistake or challenge you will have a completely different end result than if you walk in blaming the system and inspecting that system to see what step needs to be added or adjusted to keep the challenge from arising in the future. Love your people.

Are you:

A thinker

A doer

A feeler

Your office design: Modern and chic

Cozy and comfortable

Organized chaos

Social Media: For networking

For fun

A Combination

No thanks

In your queue to listen to: Business podcast

Broadway, baby

Brahms, Beethoven, Bach

Audio Book

61

Senior Vice President, Private Banking & Retail Market Manager, IBERIABANK

Ginger Harper |

Ginger Harper serves as Senior Vice President, Private Banking and Retail Market Manager for IBERIABANK in Huntsville, Ala. In her role, she is responsible for lending, investment strategies, trust and financial planning for the Huntsville market.

With over 18 years of experience, Ginger focuses on providing comprehensive financial solutions and offers unparalleled service to high net worth clients as well as leading the bank’s retail franchise in Huntsville. While her primary role is leading private and retail banking, she also manages events and corporate sponsorships, serves as the Community Reinvestment Act liaison and works to ensure IBERIABANK has maximum visibility and exposure in the market.

Ginger graduated from Athens State University where she obtained a B.S in Business Management. She is also a graduate of Leadership Connect Huntsville Class 7, Leadership Flagship Class 25 and the 2014 Alabama Leadership Initiative; obtained her series 6 and 63 licenses and completed the Life and Health Insurance Exam.

Ginger has a strong sense of community and has been identified as a proven and effective leader working to advance many nonprofit organizations. She currently serves as a member of the Board of Trustees for Alabama A&M University, member of the Board of Directors for The Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville, past Chairman of the Heart of the Valley YMCA, past Board President of HEALS Inc., and is actively involved in various other organizations. Also, in 2017, Ginger was recognized as one of thirty women who are shaping the State of Alabama.

Proudest moment in your career? Being named the first woman Chief Volunteer Officer for the Heart of the Valley YMCA since its inception in 1910.

Our CEO shares my passion for diversity and inclusion, for elevating women to serve on our Board of Directors and creating a succession plan that will ultimately allow for the first African American to serve as Chief Volunteer Officer. It’s all about creating opportunity for others to have a seat at the table. Who is your biggest cheerleader? My husband. I have been blessed to be married to my best friend for 17 years. I always have his support – 100%. There were times when he passed on a career opportunities to make sure I was able to make my next move. We are always working together to ensure we are doing what is best for our family. How is business different for women than when you started? There are so many successful women in our community who have paved the way. Now, more women have a seat at the table then when I started my banking career 18 years ago.

My commitment is to continue to elevate other women. My journey was certainly not easy so I would love to help remove obstacles and barriers for others. Most memorable learning experience? For years, I have been perplexed by the pressure women, including me, place on themselves. We wear so many hats and yet, we are holding it all together by a shoe string. When we are not able to deliver at the highest level—we miss our child’s game, fall short of achieving the perfect work/life balance, miss family dinner or date night—we tend to think we are failures. I have learned, though, that we are all human. We’re not always going to be perfect. We will make mistakes. We must be able to move on. We must protect and advocate for ourselves and other women. We must serve, lead and love, which has to come from within. Without those key elements, there is no way to achieve the highest level of success.

Are you:

An early bird

Are you:

A thinker

Better after noon

A doer

On Saturday morning:

A feeler –

All the above

Sleep in Hit the gym

In your queue to listen to:

Up at dawn Work, work, work

Business podcast Brahms, Beethoven, Bach

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A night owl

Broadway, baby Audio Book

Jade Rosetti |

LME, The Cosmetic Clinic

Jade Rosetti’s love and passion for aesthetics started at a young age with makeup and having her mom teach her about skincare. She was always the one doing everyone’s makeup for homecoming and prom during high school.

A true artist at heart, she completed her B.A. in Graphic + Web Design at UAH, and began working as a graphic designer. She kept her creative juices flowing by doing makeup jobs on the weekend from Alabama to Nashville to California. It didn’t take long for her to realize graphic design wasn’t her true calling, yet she loved arts and design. An opportunity arose for her to work in aesthetics as the Southeast Territory Manager for HydraFacial MD, covering Ala., Tenn., Ga., Miss., and Fla for six years. Four of those six years she was awarded for being Top 10 in sales. She learned a lot about business and the medical aesthetics world.

She met Dr. Allen Campbell and Brett Enabnit when they opened Quickcare and was given the opportunity to attend Esthetics School and become a Medical Esthetician, and then to create The Cosmetic Clinic as their vision to add the aesthetic piece to their “Wheel of Wellness” pillars of health program. The Cosmetic Clinic opened February 14, 2017 and has grown tremendously in just a year’s time.

Jade is excited for more growth, more education and new locations!

Jade is currently pregnant with twin girls, due in September and is so enjoying having a wonderful pregnancy. She is excited to become a working mom!

Proudest moment in your career? I have proud moments

Your favorite pick-me-up: Your meetings take place: You can be found: Work hours:

Coffee In your office

Always on the go 9 to 5

Tea

A healthy snack

On Skype

Over the phone

Working at the office Flexible

A midday nap Off-site

Connecting from home

Until the job is done

everyday! But I have to say it’s always a proud moment when something you’ve created comes to such fruition that your business is thriving based on word of mouth due to a great experience and treatment outcome. Personal qualities most useful for your job? Passion. Love. Empathy. Integrity. Grit. Caring.

Dedication. Education. Honesty. Business philosophy? To enhance patients’ natural beauty with effective treatments and skincare from the inside-out using our WOW “Wheel of Wellness” approach to skin health and wellness. Your go-to phrase?

SKIN FIRST. MAKEUP SECOND. Goals for the future?

Professionally: To establish The Cosmetic Clinic as a standalone business in Huntsville and expand to other cities/states. Personally: To create a business that my daughters will one day be proud of their mom for. Biggest obstacle you’ve overcome? Being pregnant with twin girls and doubling The Cosmetic Clinic’s growth!

I haven’t missed a day of work, and have had enough energy to keep up with 10 or more treatments a day. Words/Advice to live by? SPF. Retin-A. Growth Factors. Sleep. Clean Eating.

Exercise. De-stress. Water. Balanced Hormones. Laughter…and LOVE! Rule for success? If you put a pulse into it and every fiber of your being, people are going to respond. Dream big, stay true to your intention, be kind and honest, and don’t forget to ask questions! Free advice? Know that you can start late, look different, be uncertain, and still succeed. How is business different for women than when you started? I am so proud to see more collaboration over competition amongst women. I love to support my girls! We all deserve success. Advice for your daughters? If my daughters are as passionate and empathetic about things in life that kick start their heart I’ll be sure to advise them on how to channel that into a life that best serves themselves and others.

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REBECCA RUSHING SLAVEN |

Founder/CEO, Queen Bee of Beverly Hills

Rebecca Rushing Slaven, a New Orleans native, has called Huntsville home for the past 20 years. She graduated from the University of Alabama with a degree in accounting. Although she possesses a CPA and began her career in the corporate world, her love of fashion and luxury designer accessories led her to launch Queen Bee of Beverly Hills in 2002, opening a wholesale showroom in Beverly Hills, Ca., which would be the company’s headquarters for the next six years.

As a corporate buyer, she created exclusive connections with luxury brands in Europe to market their excess European stocks at a discount. Queen Bee quickly became one of the leading suppliers of luxury designer handbags and accessories from the finest brands around the globe, selling to many celebrities, their personal stylists as well international volume purchasers for resale.

As a single mother of two small boys, Rebecca found it increasingly difficult to maintain the fast pace of constant business travel. Queen Bee’s official headquarters was then moved to Huntsville in 2010, with its flagship retail boutique opening soon thereafter. It is there you can find the most coveted designer labels at 30-50% off retail prices. Queen Bee has also recently launched its own designer clothing line, which is inspired by Rebecca’s own personal style of elegance and confidence yet is unabashedly feminine. She believes in investing in the best and is dedicated to providing her clients with an exclusive and pleasurable luxury buying experience without intimidating price tags.

Proudest moment in your career? Opening our new flagship store in Huntsville Favorite part of your job? Seeing the smiles on the faces of my clients when they find the perfect bag Who is your biggest cheerleader? My husband and my sons Personal qualities most useful for your job? I love making people happy Mentor/Biggest influence? My mother.

The smartest person I know. I continue to be amazed by how much I still learn from her. Perfect day away from the office?

Sleeping late, breakfast in bed, a movie, and not having to answer my phone Hobbies? Cooking New Orleans food for my family Words to live by? Always follow your heart Who is your inspiration? Gabrielle Coco Chanel Rule for success? You cannot count on things going as planned, have a backup contingency, and always be adaptable. Free advice? Success is measured by how much happiness it brings.

Are you:

An early bird

Better after noon

A night owl A feeler

Are you:

A thinker

A doer

You can be found:

Always on the go

Working at the office

Connecting from home Your downtime is spent:

Relaxing with family and friends With a cocktail

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Working

Traveling

Lisa D. Bruce, DMD |

Partner/Owner, Dental Professionals on Whitesburg Dr. Lisa Bruce is originally from Decatur, Ala. Her wonderful parents, Joan and Frank Duke, raised her and her two brothers there.

She graduated from Decatur High School.

She received a Bachelor of Science Degree from Judson College, with a major in Chemistry and a double minor in Biology and Classical Piano Performance. She graduated Magna Cum Laude with Honors and finished school in three years.

Dr. Bruce attended dental school at the University of Alabama in Birmingham. She received her Doctorate of Dental Medicine there and participated in the honors program for fixed and removable prosthodontics. Dental school is where she met her husband, David.

After graduation from dental school, she and David went to Chinle, Arizona and practiced dentistry in the Public Health Service for one year. They returned to Alabama to begin private practice. She joined the practice of Dr. Hilda Lee in Huntsville, Ala., while her husband opened his own practice in Madison, Alabama.

The couple has two children. Claire is 21 years old and is studying architecture at Auburn University. Philip is 17 years old and is an upcoming senior at Huntsville High School.

Dr. Bruce is currently affiliated with the Huntsville Madison County Dental Society, the Alabama Dental Society, the American Dental Association, the American Academy of General Dentistry, the American Academy of Facial Esthetics, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the International Congress of Oral lmplantologists, the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation, Obstructive Sleep Apnea University, the Dental Alumni Association and the Pankey Institute.

Proudest moment in your career? My proudest moment was when I had the opportunity to purchase one of the best practices in Huntsville, Ala. Dr. Hilda Lee, the founder of the practice was one of the first female dentists in Huntsville. She was known in the community for excellent dentistry and a role model in business for both men and women alike. I have worked hard to continue her excellent example. Favorite part of your job? I love seeing the transformation of our patients and giving them the smile they have always dreamed of. Many times it can be a very intimate, emotional moment – one of which I am most honored to be a part of.

Who is your biggest cheerleader? I have always been very fortunate to be surrounded by supportive family and friends, but my biggest cheerleader would have to be my husband David.

We have shared a true partnership for the last 26 years. Greatest

leap of faith you’ve taken in your professional life?

Are you:

A thinker

A doer

Your downtime is spent:

Relaxing with family and friends With a cocktail

On Saturday morning: In your queue to listen to:

Sleep in

A feeler

Traveling

Working Up at dawn

Hit the gym

Work, work, work

Business podcast

Broadway, baby

Brahms, Beethoven, Bach

Audio Book

I decided to bring Dr. Sonya Wintzell on as a partner in the practice.

I had employed dentists to associate with me in the past but having a partner was very different. This decision was phenomenal because having someone there who shares the same goals and management style helped us grow, both professionally and personally. We were also able to incorporate more procedures and serve our patients better.

This leap of faith turned out to be one of my best decisions ever!

Free advice? Live in gratitude. How do you juggle it all?

Dr. L. D. Pankey had a philosophy that I have tried to live by. The cross of life involves a balance of love, worship, work and play. If you focus on spending time in each of these areas it will keep your life more balanced.

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Dabsey Maxwell |

CFO/COO, Progress Bank

Dabsey Maxwell, CPA, has served as the Chief Financial Officer/ Chief Operations Officer for Progress Bank since it opened in 2007.

In this role, she oversees the Finance, Operations, Shareholder Relations and Human Resources areas of the bank.

She graduated from Auburn University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, majoring in Accounting. After college, she held positions such as Senior Accountant with Ernst and Young, then went on to work for ITC Holding Company, Inc., as Vice President, Controller, followed by serving as the Director of Finance (Alabama Market) for Charter Communications. She is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Georgia Society of Certified Public Accountants.

Highly active in the community, Dabsey has served on various boards for organizations such as the Huntsville Museum of Art Foundation, Leadership Huntsville/Madison County, Space & Rocket Center, Randolph Community Network and Lyrique Music Productions.

Dabsey also volunteers with Manna House, Pomfret School and First United Methodist Church. She is an active alumni member for Auburn University and for Kappa Delta Sorority. In addition, Dabsey is a graduate of Leadership Huntsville/Madison County Class 23 and Focus Class 20.

She is happily married to Dan Maxwell and has three children, Monroe, Rainey and Mary Newton.

Aha moment? My aha moment is seeing one of my employees

Are you: --

I am honestly a mixture of all of these A thinker

Your office design:

A doer

Modern and chic

On Saturday morning: Sleep in In your queue to listen to:

A feeler

Cozy and comfortable

Up at dawn

Business podcast

Hit the gym

Work, work, work

Broadway, baby

Brahms, Beethoven, Bach

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Organized chaos

Audio Book

that started out at an entry level job move on to be in a senior level position of a company. I love seeing people succeed and hope I had just a little bit of a part in shaping them to reach that point. Your go-to phrase? Jeremiah 29:11 – “ For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Words to live by?

“At the end of your life, you will never regret not having passed one more test, not winning one more verdict, or not closing one more deal. You will regret time not spent with a husband, a child, a friend or a parent.” Barbara Bush Advice for your daughter? First – pick a profession that will allow you to be able to take care of yourself and that you will enjoy. You spend many hours a day doing it so it is important that you like it and that financially you are not dependent on others. Second – I think it is best said in a quote by Dr. Maya Angelou, “Nobody but nobody makes it out here alone.

What really matters now is love. I mean that condition in the human spirit that is so profound it allows us to rise. Strength, love, courage, love, kindness, love, that is really what matters. There has always been evil and there will always be evil. But there has always been good and there is good now.” You must be able to rise in very hard times and be able to love in order to have a fulfilling life in my opinion. My faith is my anchor that has allowed me to still rise in some very difficult moments and I have loved so many people on my life path to date. It has made life wonderful. I want her to have that faith as her anchor and yet be able to rise when life throws you those hard curve balls and for her to love big, for if she does that she will receive so much more than she will ever be able to give.

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Hollie Beaver |

Director of Content, Ad4! Group

As the Director of Content for Ad4! Hollie Beaver wears many hats.

She spent nearly a decade in television news and learned how to do just about everything from copywriting and videography to social media and editing. She knows how to tell stories in a way that keeps people interested!

Hollie was born and raised in Florence, Ala., and graduated from Central High School in 2004. She made her way to Jacksonville State University and after interning at FOX 6 in Birmingham, graduated with a Bachelor in Communication with a specialization in Broadcast.

She landed her first job in television at WHNT in 2009 before moving to Warner Robins, Ga. to anchor the evening news. It was there Hollie truly learned to shoot, write, edit, and deliver amazing stories! But Huntsville is where her heart is and she came back home in 2012 to join the team at WAAY where she was honored to work for nearly 5 years as an anchor and reporter covering Redstone Arsenal. She was recognized for: • • •

Best Documentary, “April’s Fury, One Year Later” 2013 Alabama APME Awards Reporter of the Year nominee, 2013 Alabama AP Awards Service Project of the Year, “Stars Dancing for HEALS,” 2012 ABBY Awards

She met many amazing people during her years in the news, covering everything from tornadoes, to politics, and the military but decided to leave to spend more time with her family.

She is thrilled to now be telling amazing stories with the Ad4! Group team, while also spending lots of time with her wonderful husband Adam and her two tiny best friends, Mason and Owen.

Who is your biggest cheerleader? My biggest cheerleader

Are you:

On your feet

Your meetings take place: Are you: You can be found:

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At your desk

In your office

A thinker

On Skype

A doer

Always on the go

Glued to your smartphone Over the phone

Off-site

A feeler

Working at the office

Connecting from home

is by far Felica Sparks, owner of AD4! Group. Felica has believed in me since day one. No matter the challenge, she is always right there in my corner encouraging me. I’m so thankful to her for giving me the opportunity to work in an industry that I love, while also being a mommy to my two wonderful boys. Business philosophy?

Ad4! Group is focused on the Return on Investment of all of our campaigns. We over-deliver because to us, more important than getting a new client, is keeping that client for years to come. We know that people will stick with us when they see that we take their investment very seriously. If we do not believe that a certain campaign will yield good results, we tell you up front and then work to find the perfect campaign for your unique situation. At AD4!, we are communication that counts. Free advice? Don’t give up! If you want something, you can have it. For me, I wanted the opportunity to be able to be with my children more, while continuing to work and use the talents God gave me. For a long time, I didn’t see how that could be possible, but one day the perfect situation presented itself.

Things happen when they are supposed to, if you work hard. How do you juggle it all? My village! I simply would not be able to work from home without the amazing help from the people in my life. My husband, mother, grandmother, mother-in-law, partner Felica, and all of my friends are always there to help out, when I have a shoot I need to get to and no one to watch the boys. Sometimes you can even catch Felica bouncing a baby on her knee while I shoot video!

Sonya Wintzell, DMD |

Partner/Owner, Dental Professionals on Whitesburg

Dr. Sonya Wintzell has been in dentistry for nearly 20 years. After attending UAB Dental School she had the opportunity to locate to Huntsville, Ala., to work with Dr. Lisa Bruce whom she counts not only as a friend but a wonderful mentor.

As current owner of Dental Professionals on Whitesburg she is passionate not only about helping others pursue optimal dental health but also creating amazingly beautiful smiles. Her desire to give her patients the best care possible has driven her to take many of the top continuing education classes in the world including the renowned Pankey Institute, Misch International Implant Institute, Chao Pinhole Surgical Academy, and Spear Education. In 2011, Dr. Wintzell was awarded a Fellowship with the International Congress of Oral Implantologists for her studies in implant surgery and restorations. Additionally, she belongs to numerous professional associations including the Academy of General Dentistry, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, and the American Academy of Facial Esthetics. Her work of creating beautiful smiles with facial procedures such as Botox and filler has led her to become a mentor alongside the faculty of the American Academy of Facial Esthetics.

When not focusing on dentistry, Dr. Wintzell is busy helping her husband Al with their four children – Jacob 21, Olivia 16, Benjamin 15 and Chloe 6. Their time together is spent working out, gardening, roller skating, and watching Alabama football. Giving back to the community is important to her and has led her to work with many local organizations including the American Cancer Society and the Hunstville Botanical Garden. Dental Professionals on Whitesburg offers dental treatment at no cost to Davidson Farms-Home for Teenage Girls (Lee Marshall’s Kids to Love.) She loves the city of Huntsville and is excited about the future of this community.

Favorite part of your job: My patients and creating a beautiful smile! I am honored to do wonderful dentistry on the best patients in North Alabama alongside the best dental team I have ever had. I have developed relationships throughout the years with my patients and because of them I am challenged every day to continue to learn and grow in order to provide them the best care. Business philosophy: Take care of your people; that is your employees and your patients, and the business will take care of itself. Sacrifices made for your career: I have never been the room mom. I am not the mother that brings home-baked goodies to school on my kids’ birthdays. I do not chaperone field trips. I miss field days and daytime plays.

BUT, I invest in my children in other ways and stay connected with them. We have a no-technology day in our home on Wednesday and Sunday. These are my favorite days because the kids just hang around us more without their technology. Our family is very connected despite my work schedule and I am proud of that. How do you juggle it all: I have an “Al.” Al is my husband and I often say everyone needs an Al and everyone needs to be an Al to someone. He takes care of me in so many ways and allows me to chase my dreams by lightening my load along the way.

Advice for your daughter: “Be the girl you want your daughter to be. Be the girl you want your son to date. Be classy, be smart, be real, but most importantly be nice.” ― Germany Kent. And, of course, brush and floss your teeth so you can share your beautiful smile with others!

Are you:

An early bird

Your meetings take place:

Better after noon

On Skype

A night owl

Over the phone

In my office - I like to be face to face Are you:

A thinker

In your queue to listen to:

A doer

Broadway, baby Audio Book

A feeler Brahms, Beethoven, Bach

Business podcast (every morning!)

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Angelina Pettway |

Vice President/Sales Officer, Bank Independent Angelina Pettway has always had a passion for banking and finance.

As a little girl, she would tear subscriptions out of magazines and use those as loan applications. She would use monopoly money to fund her make-believe loans. Her desire to work with money became a reality when she began working for Huntsville Teachers Credit Union as a teller while still in high school. She started as a teller and later graduated from Alabama Banking School in 2016. With 25 years and counting in the banking industry, her passion has become her livelihood. Currently, she is a Vice President, Sales Officer for Bank Independent’s Madison office.

Angelina is a native of Madison County. She was born and raised in Huntsville, Ala., and really enjoys being involved in the community.

She has volunteered with Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Alabama, Manna House, served as Loaned Executive for United Way of Madison County, Ambassador for the Huntsville Madison County Chamber of Commerce and Leadership Committee, Ranger Program for the Huntsville Police Department and Chairperson of the Career Tech Board for Johnson High School.

She currently resides in Madison with her husband Chris and daughter Camryn. They attend the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Harvest. When not working, she’s either busy in her ministry, watching movies with her husband, at home entertaining company or shopping with her two best friends: her mom and her daughter.

Proudest moment in your career? Graduating from

Are you:

An early bird

Your personal style outside of work: Your favorite pick-me-up:

Better after noon T-shirt and jeans

Coffee

Tea

A midday nap Your downtime is spent:

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A night owl Trendy

Comfy

A healthy snack Get up and walk around

Relaxing with family and friends

Traveling

With a cocktail

Working

Alabama Banking School; that was truly something I always wanted to do. At the time, the bank I was working for decided to send two people from the North Alabama Market. If interested in going, the criterion was to submit an application and a short essay as to why you should be chosen. Needless to say, I was one of the two picked.

The entire experience from being able to attend, to actually graduating was indeed a proud moment for me. Who is your biggest cheerleader? My husband is extremely supportive, but I would have to say that my mother is my biggest cheerleader. She always encourages me to go above and beyond in anything that I do. Free advice? Always return calls the same day, even if you do not have a resolution. Advice for your daughter? Live by Matthew 6:33 which reads, “Keep on then seeking first the Kingdom and his righteousness, and all these other things will be added to you.” Success means different things depending on who you ask. I am a true believer that regardless of how awesome the career, how big the bank account or how many FB friends one may have, it means absolutely nothing if you allow the Giver of all things to come second to anyone or anything in your life. Biggest obstacle you’ve overcome? Shyness, actually I’m still a work in progress. How to stay competitive? It’s really simple, treating people how I want to be treated. Why a person would want to do business with me has nothing to do with the type of account or loan I can give them; rather, it has to do with the personal attention and service they get from me, be it help with online banking or a sizable loan request.

Anne Marie Reidy, MD, JD |

Founder, Women4Women OBGYN

Dr. Reidy is a Board-Certified OBGYN and founder of Women4Women OBGYN. She graduated from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio and did her OBGYN residency at University Hospitals—Case Western Reserve University. This is Dr. Reidy’s second career, as she practiced law for 10 years after graduating from Georgetown Law School before going on to medical school.

Dr. Reidy has been providing prenatal care, delivering babies and practicing gynecology here since moving to Huntsville with her husband and three daughters in 2004.

Outside the office, Dr. Reidy stays busy with family and her community. Among her numerous civic activities, Dr. Reidy is a Board Member of the Huntsville Hospital Foundation, and is a founding member of the Women’s Endowment of the Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville (as well as past Board Member.) She also raised money for Heals, Inc. as a “Star” in the “Stars Dancing for Heals” benefit of 2015. Women4Women OBGYN regularly sponsors charitable events in the community, including Hudson Alpha’s Tie the Ribbons luncheon each year.

In her leisure time, Dr. Reidy enjoys spending time with friends, exercising (including Pure Barre, yoga, and Orange Theory,) reading and traveling. She is very happy and grateful that her three daughters and two sons-in-law recently relocated to Nashville, Birmingham and Huntsville so that the family can spend more time together!

Favorite Part of your job: This is a tough one, because I love

Your office design:

Modern and chic

Cozy and comfortable

Organized chaos

Calm and Serene

Favorite Mobile Tool:

Smartphone

Tablet

Social Media:

For networking

For fun

A Combination

No thanks

Sleep in

Up at dawn

Hit the gym

Work, work, work

On Saturday Morning:

Smartwatch

my job so much, and it is so varied. I find it a huge honor to be present and assist in what is often the most joyous and memorable time in a patient’s life: the birth of her child. Who is your biggest cheerleader? Hands down, my husband, Thomas Reidy. He has supported me through law school, medical school, raising our children, the move to Huntsville, and the founding of Women4Women OBGYN. He is a rock star! Greatest leap of faith you’ve taken in your professional life? At the time I decided to go to medical school, my daughters were ages 2, 6 and 8, I had a very secure job as an attorney in a major law firm, and had not taken a science course since high school! I knew it would take 10 years to get from there to finishing residency and going into private practice.

My husband fully supported my decision, and I have never looked back! How would family and friends describe you?

Not sure I want to know the answer to that one, lol! I do know that a medical student once described me as “sweet, with an underlying intensity.” That seems pretty accurate. How do you juggle it all? People are amazed at my energy level. Some of that is good luck and good genetics. But I also take care of myself and make it a priority to find a balance. I love to indulge myself when I can with a massage, or get my nails done, or some other little pick me up. I also exercise regularly and follow a healthy diet, and have done so pretty much my whole adult life. Advice for your daughters?

Work hard, don’t be afraid to try new things, and if you can help others and do good along the way, then that gives it all meaning.

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Dena Hoekenschnieder |

Owner/Realtor, Legend Realty

Dena was born and raised in Kentucky on a farm, where she learned what true hard work was. She graduated from Western Kentucky University with a B.S. in Commercial Textiles with a minor in Communications. She started her career in real estate 11 years ago, working at other real estate offices until she and her husband Jim decided it was time to start their own company. They opened Legend Realty in September 2012, and currently they have 142 agents working with them. Legend Realty has grown to be the largest independent real estate office in North Alabama. They opened their new Madison office in February of this year. Dena, her husband Jim and Jeanne Allen share ownership of the real estate agency. Their goal at Legend Realty is to provide top notch real estate services to the people of Madison and Limestone County. They are proud to be associated with some of the best agents in the business. Dena is currently in the top 10 percent of all Realtors in sales for Madison County.

Since starting as an agent, Dena has never looked back. It is by far the best career choice of her lifetime and she truly loves helping people find their perfect home, or selling their existing home to move on to their next dream. When she is not selling real estate, she enjoys spending time with Jim and her four beautiful daughters and four wonderful grandchildren. There is never a dull moment at the Hoekenschnieder house!

Proudest moment in your career? Opening Legend Realty Favorite part of your job? Helping people sell their home and move on to their next dream Who is your biggest cheerleader? My wonderful husband Jim Business philosophy?

Always do the right thing! I treat each and every transaction just like I was buying or selling for my family. Your go-to phrase? Get her done! Most memorable learning experience? I am a quick study. We all make mistakes, but I never repeat them! How to stay competitive? I always try to make myself available to my clients. We are all busy people. Most of us work, so I have to take phone calls and answer emails after hours. There are no “after hours” in real estate. Perfect day away from the office? Spending time with my family, no matter what we do. Greatest leap of faith you’ve taken in your professional life? Opening up our own real estate company – Legend Realty. How would family and friends describe you? Fast-paced, fun, loving, caring and always willing to lend a helping hand! Rule for success? Be honest and work hard and success will follow. Free advice? When buying or selling real estate, do your research and find a well-qualified agent. A great agent can make a big difference in your experience.

Are you:

An early bird

Are you:

A thinker

You can be found:

Always on the go

Your downtime is spent:

A doer

Working at the office

Relaxing with family and friends With a cocktail

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Better after noon

Working

A night owl

A feeler

Connecting from home

Traveling

Lindsay S. Rice |

CEO, Alabama Colon & Gastro, P.C.

Lindsay Rice graduated from the University of Alabama with a B.A. in Anthropology/History and M.Ed. in Secondary Education from the University of South Alabama. She taught high school for seven years and is currently CEO of Alabama Colon & Gastro, P.C. Lindsay has served as the AMASA President, Membership VP, Secretary and current Historian; Madison County Medical Alliance President; AMA Alliance External Communications Committee; Huntsville Broadway Theatre Board of Directors; Crestwood Medical Center Women’s Advisory Board; Junior League of Huntsville Board of Directors; Huntsville Library Foundation Board; Huntsville Museum of Art Guild and Southern Medical Alliance Secretary and Vice President of Membership.

She is a member of the Church of the Nativity in Huntsville, Ala. As a strong advocate for her community, she truly enjoys being involved and supporting local nonprofit organizations. Lindsay is married to Brad, a Gastroenterologist/Hepatologist in Huntsville and they have one son, Sam.

Favorite Part of your job? My favorite part of my job is working

Are you:

An early bird

Better after noon

with people and interacting with them on a daily basis. I enjoy solving problems and enjoy strategic planning for the future. Who is your biggest cheerleader? My biggest supporter and cheerleader is my husband, Brad. He has always supported me in every endeavor I have been a part and continues to help me with everything, be it professional or personal. Business philosophy? My business philosophy is to respect others and to help provide the best service to others that I can on a daily basis. Goals for the future?

Continue to grow as a person and to look for new opportunities and ways to help my community in the future Personal qualities most useful in your job? Communications skills, organization and planning Most memorable learning experience?

I was a high school teacher for seven years prior to running a company. I learned so many unique talents as a teacher that I apply to work every day. It helped me fine-tune my communication skills, organization, strategic planning talents and budgeting.

Perfect day away from the office? Reading a good book by the lake and relaxing outside Hobbies? I enjoy traveling, reading, swimming, boating and attending sporting events, especially Alabama football. How do you juggle it all? Planning. I keep a paper planner and review it every day. Every night, I make a list of the next day’s to-do items and schedule so that I can stay on task and accomplish goals for the day. Advice to live by?

I was at a conference many years ago, and I heard the best advice that I now use every day at work: Set three goals each day, and seek to achieve those goals. Make at least one of them easy to achieve. At the end of the day, you can state what you achieved and it helps your attitude and self-esteem because you accomplished three things.

Otherwise, you could get overwhelmed with your to-do list. How would family and friends describe you? Strong work ethic, organized, planner and compassionate. Greatest leap

A night owl

of faith you’ve taken in your professional life?

Your personal style outside of work: T-shirt and jeans Your favorite pick-me-up:

Trendy Coffee

Tea

Creating and starting a new company

Comfy A healthy snack

A midday nap

snack...but would love the midday nap but that is not an option with my schedule

Your meetings take place: In your office

On Skype

Over the phone

Off-site

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Vice President & Relationship Strategist, PNC Wealth Management®

Heather Baker |

Heather Baker is a Vice President and Relationship Strategist for PNC Wealth Management®, with over 20 years of financial industry experience. Heather joined PNC Wealth Management Group in 2012 as a Vice President and Relationship Manager. Prior to joining PNC, Heather served as a Private Banker for RBC Bank and Regions Morgan Keegan Private Banking. Her career also includes serving as a Financial Advisor for Morgan Keegan and AmSouth Investment Services.

She is active in the community and is now serving a second term on the Huntsville Museum of Art’s Foundation Board. Heather is also a member of the Huntsville Financial and Estate Planning Council and serves on the Professional Advisors Council for HudsonAlpha. She recently accepted an invitation to serve on the Huntsville Botanical Garden’s Advisory Board and looks forward to contributing.

Over her career, Ms. Baker has formed relationships with many organizations across the state who positively impact the areas they serve.

Heather earned her Bachelor of Science degree in commerce and Business Administration from the University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa. Her professional licenses include a Series 7, a Series 66, and an Alabama Life, Health, and Annuity License.

She also holds a Financial Paraplanner Qualified Professional designation from the College for Financial Planning. Within PNC, Heather is a Certified Advisor and a Certified Women’s Business Advocate.

Who is your biggest cheerleader? Tony (Adair) is always in my cheer section providing support, encouragement and pep-talks. He is the first to celebrate with me when time calls and to be there to lift me up when things aren’t going so great. Biggest influence? My parents have been the biggest influence on my life and career path. They have always been so encouraging and supportive, gave me the education and life experiences I needed to succeed, and most importantly a loving home to grow up in. I never felt I had limitations or restrictions as a girl/ woman. Even though we lived in a very small town, I was taught to dream big, focus on my education, and become whatever I wanted to be. My dad still tells me to this day “do big things – you know if it doesn’t work out you can always come home.”

My dad…was in the “relationship business,” rarely missed a day of work, and traveled most of his career. I believe by observing him and the example he set, I learned so much about managing relationships in my career, as well as work-life balance and hard work in general. I learned my organizational and teamwork skills from my mother, which have served me well over the years. My mother taught me many valuable lessons and led by example when it came to volunteering, putting other’s needs first and helping those who are less fortunate. I am so grateful she taught me these values early in life. Words to live by? “Attitude is a little thing that makes a BIG difference.” - Winston Churchill How do you juggle it all? Worry only about the things I can control, pray about the things I cannot, keep a positive outlook – and a close, long-time work partnership with Renee Williams. How is business different for women than when you started? I see women in more leadership positions now than 20 years ago. I also see women in more non-traditional jobs, earning advanced degrees, and not apologizing for wanting a family and a professional career at the same time.

Are you:

An early bird

Better after noon

Your downtime is spent: Relaxing with family and friends With a cocktail

A night owl Traveling Working

Social Media: For networking

For fun

In your queue to listen to:

A Combination

Business podcast

No thanks Broadway, baby

Brahms, Beethoven, Bach

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Audio Book

Caroline A. Beitel D.M.D., M.S. |

Beitel Pediatric Dentistry

Dr. Beitel is Huntsville’s first female pediatric dentist and began her pediatric dental practice in 2018. Growing up in Huntsville, Dr. Beitel attended Randolph School.

After graduating from Randolph, she attended Sewanee where she majored in Spanish and was a four-year member of the women’s soccer team.

Dr. Beitel attended dental school at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. While at UAB, she was an active member of many student organizations and served as the president of the Student Government Association in her final year. Upon graduation from dental school, Dr. Beitel was accepted to the University of Michigan where she completed her Master of Science degree in Pediatric Dentistry.

During her post-doctorate studies in Ann Arbor, Dr. Beitel worked for over two years in the university’s pediatric dental clinic and children’s hospital. She treated a variety of pediatric patients under the supervision of some of the top instructors in the country. At the university hospital, Dr. Beitel was a member of the interdisciplinary craniofacial team. She routinely commuted an hour north to Flint, Mich. to work at a satellite clinic where she treated a large number of children with severe dental needs who were affected by the Flint water crisis. Dr. Beitel also gained extensive experience treating children with special healthcare needs, and understands not only the clinical necessities but also the emotional and medical needs of children to give them comfortable, top-notch care. Dr. Beitel encourages all children to see a pediatric dentist beginning at age 1 as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.

Favorite part of your job? I love working with children and parents who need that “extra” measure of calm or confidence as they undergo a dental procedure.

Making both feel at ease and alleviating any fears or anxieties makes my day!

Personal qualities most useful for your job? I’m an outgoing person, which is great when working with children, but I think my patience and perfectionism are most useful in my job. Your go-to phrase? We’ve got this! Goals for the future? To continually educated myself and improve my skills through continuing education and working with mentors in my field. How to stay competitive? I played soccer in both high school and college and loved the competition of the sport, but I am always competing against myself to grow and improve, both personally and professionally. Perfect day away from the office? A good cup of coffee on the porch, a nice run downtown or hike on the mountain followed by food and fellowship with friends and family. Hobbies?

Traveling – I love experiencing the food, art, and local culture of new places. I also love cooking, hiking, and running – anything outside! Words to live by? From my Grandad, “As through life you ramble, whatever be your goal, keep your eye upon the doughnut and not upon the hole.” How would family and friends describe you? Always hungry! Free advice? Always listen to the advice of others. How do you juggle it all? B - be yourself, A - arrive ready, L - listen, A - always be yourself, N - never give up, C - care for others, E - enjoy life

Are you: Are you:

76

An early bird On your feet

Better after noon At your desk

A night owl

Glued to your smartphone

Are you:

A thinker

A doer

A feeler

Work hours:

9 to 5

Flexible

Until the job is done

Melanie Hammer Murray |

President, Bullet and Barrel, LLC

Melanie Hammer Murray’s parents arrived in Huntsville in 1960.

She grew up in Jones Valley and graduated from HHS in 1982.

One of Melanie’s first jobs was with Reeds Menswear, where she met her future husband Rhett Murray. She graduated from Alabama in 1986 with a B.S. in Retailing. Melanie worked for Macy’s and Rich’s Department Stores in Birmingham and Atlanta. Her last job was as Training and Development Manager overseeing stores in Alabama and Tennessee.

In 1992 Melanie and Rhett moved home to join North Alabama Spine and Neuro. Melanie was a stay at home mom, raising Blake, Davis, Robert and Dollie Meredith, but was an active volunteer who conceptualized and twice chaired Huntsville Museum of Art’s Wild at ART and was a founder of the much-loved Skating in the Park. More recently she twice chaired the Gala Auction.

Melanie’s other areas of interest and service have been with Bible Study Fellowship as the Substitute Teaching Leader, and Randolph School serving in numerous positions from room mom to Trustee.

The Murray’s historic home has been the site for many tours and fundraisers.

In the summer of 2016, Bill Roberts approached the Murrays about opening a shooting range. Bullet and Barrel, LLC. was formed soon after. Melanie jumped onboard as President bringing administrative and creative retailing skills with her. The 30,000 square foot facility is Huntsville’s newest recreational and retail venue providing firearms, clothing and accessories sales, indoor shooting lanes, training classes, and special events. Their goal was to provide serious fun in an environment that was completely different from other ranges and gun stores.

Personal qualities most useful for your job? I love to

Your downtime is spent: What’s downtime? My business has been open less than a year!

Relaxing with family and friends

Traveling

Your office design: Modern and chic

With a cocktail

Working

Cozy and comfortable

Organized chaos I love my collection of old hammers hanging on the wall!

On Saturday morning: Work, work, work

Sleep in

Up at dawn

Hit the gym

YES, but I start the day with a swim!

In your queue to listen to: Business podcast

Broadway, baby

find solutions to challenging situations that don’t produce a sense of loss in one of the parties. It’s important to stop for a minute and think about what your end goal is. If the end goal is to preserve a working or personal relationship, you’ll act very differently than if you don’t care whether that person stays committed to you or the project. Greatest leap of faith you’ve taken in your professional life? You mean like reinventing myself at 54 years old? Or like going to work when all my friends are talking about retiring? It is not lost on me that what I am doing is an incredible gift and an adventure. I am grateful every day. Words to live by?

My grandfather was a funeral home owner. I used to sit at his desk and play office. He had a sign over his desk that I have in my office now. It reads, “I had no shoes and complained until I met a man who had no feet.” In my childhood family, complaining wasn’t really tolerated. I carried this over with my own children. They would be sad about something and I’d say, “It’s ok to be sad. You have 15 minutes to cry (or for something big, a half a day) and then you need to get up, wash your face and move on.” Being able to compartmentalize emotions is a life skill. What is your inspiration? The Bible.

Every trouble, every worry, every temptation can be met by digging into the word of God. Advice for your daughter? Don’t let anyone force you into making snap decisions. Few things in life require truly urgent on-the-spot decisions. “Let me think about that,” is a perfectly reasonable answer in many instances.

Brahms, Beethoven, Bach

My daughter Dollie Meredith’s music...which you can find on YouTUBE! (shameless plug!)

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Wendy M. Worley |

Owner/Title Agent, Valley Title and Closing Services, LLC

Wendy has worked in the real estate industry for 20 years, and found her place in the title industry. Her marketing background and attention to every detail has taken her far. She studied business and marketing at Faulkner University. She opened Valley Title and Closing Services, LLC in 2007. The company has been named Best in Business in the North Alabama area from 2009 through 2017.

Wendy believes her employees are, without exception, the best in the business. Wendy is excited to announce that Valley Title has opened up a store front in Scottsboro, Jackson County, Ala., and is happy to say they can serve their clients from The Tennessee Valley to the Coast of Alabama.

Wendy is an Affiliate Member of the Huntsville Area Association of Realtors and a member of the Alabama Land Title Association, as well as being a Sustaining Member of the Junior League of Huntsville. She is an active supporter and contributor to many charities, including Russel Hill Cancer Foundation, American Cancer Society, the local senior center and 100+ Women Donations Organization that supports local charities, just to name a few. She is a cancer survivor and giving back to the community is very important to her. She loves working with her clients, and spending time with her two sons, Rhett Worley and Donald Ross Worley; her friends and family.

Aha Moment: Work hard and they will come! Thank you Huntsville for 11 years in business! Proudest moment in your career: The day my father referred a client to me Personal qualities that are most useful for your job: Attention to detail and a good work ethic Hobbies: Spending time with family and friends, traveling and boating. Biggest obstacle you’ve overcome: I would say most definitely fighting cancer – but the love and support from my God and my family was overwhelming!

Every day I stepped out of the radiation area, my mom and dad were always there smiling back at me. They were my rock and my inspiration to not give up and fight the fight! Who are your biggest cheerleaders: My boys! The support of my family has definitely helped me to achieve my goals. Words to live by: “Yes, we can do that!” Greatest leap of faith: Opening this business, in some of the worst economic times we have experienced. Business philosophy: Always do what you say you are going to do. Be fully committed and provide excellent service. Mentor: Tommy Adams, owner of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Rise Real Estate. I started out as a real estate assistant to the very best in the business! He is still a rock star and my biggest fan! Inspiration: My loving parents, Vance and Bernadean Mefford, who taught me the importance of hard work and perseverance.

Are you (choose one): Are you:

An early bird

On your feet

At your desk

Your personal style outside of work Your office design:

78

Better after noon

Modern and chic

T-shirt and jeans

A night owl

Glued to your mobile device On Trend

Cozy and comfortable

Sweatpants

Organized chaos

Anne Adams-Bourque |

Principal Broker, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Rise Real Estate Anne Adams-Bourque is a Huntsville native who grew up in the real estate business. She is the daughter of Tommy and Jimmie Adams who founded Rise Real Estate in 1983. Anne’s interest in real estate began at an early age and she started attending state and national real estate conferences at the age of 17. Obtaining her real estate license at the age of 19, Anne has been a Realtor serving Huntsville and North Alabama for over 30 years. She has worked in all aspects of real estate including residential, commercial and new construction.

She has been honored with numerous awards and has earned GRI (Graduate of the Real Estate Institute) and CRS (Certified Residential Specialist) designations. She has also served on many local and state committees with HAAR and the Alabama Association of Realtors, including her current role serving a two year term as a State Director for the Alabama Association of Realtors. In 2017, Anne facilitated the merger between Rise Real Estate and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices to form Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Rise Real Estate. Anne serves as the principal broker for the newly formed entity. Her leadership and direction carries her parents’ early vision while adapting to the ever-changing real estate industry.

Proudest moment in your career? I facilitated the negotiations and sale of the Muscle Shoals Sound Studio – a national historic landmark. Favorite part of your job? Teaching other real estate agents to succeed Who are your biggest cheerleaders? My children, Kacie Butler and Adam Bourque Your go-to phrase? Don’t look back…keep moving forward.

Goals for the future? To continue to build on our family business Mentor/Biggest influence? My parents, Tommy and Jimmie Adams How to stay competitive? Continually stay on top of technology Perfect day away from the office? Spending time with friends and family at the lake Greatest

leap of faith you’ve taken in your professional life?

Merging our family business with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Hobbies? Boating and traveling How would family and friends describe you? Constantly focused on family and work Free advice? When you get knocked down, get back up and never look back.

Are you:

An early bird

Are you:

A thinker

A doer

A feeler

Social Media:

For networking

For fun

A Combination

In your queue to listen to:

Better after noon

Business podcast Brahms, Beethoven, Bach

A night owl

No thanks

Broadway, baby Audio Book

79

Jamie Jones |

Director of Sales, The Jackson Center

Jamie Jones has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from Tennessee Temple University in Chattanooga, Tenn., and taught elementary school before finding her passion in hospitality.

For over 25 years, she has worked in the hospitality industry in hotels, nonprofit organizations (Alzheimer’s Association and Huntsville Hospital,) and even owned her own catering business and now owns her own flower business, “Flowers by Jamie.” In 2011, she was awarded the “Red Ribbon Award” by the Hospitality Association; in 2014, “Meeting Pro to Watch” by Convention Magazine; and was featured in the Eventinterface online article in 2018. “Flowers by Jamie” was featured in Southern Bride Magazine, April 2012 and again in Alabama Weddings in February, 2018.

Apart from work, Jamie is busy traveling. You will most likely find her on a cruise or working on her next trip with friends or family.

She is also a grandmother and loves spending time with her grandchildren. Her motto in life is, “Do what you love,” and she feels that she does that every day. She loves what she does at the Jackson Center and loves the Jackson Center Team!

Who is your biggest cheerleader? My Dad was always my biggest fan. He passed away in 2002 but he always believed I could do or be anything. I guess now that he has passed away, I would say my biggest cheerleader is my brother, Tracy Slayton. I don’t know what I would do without him. Personal qualities most useful for your job? I believe each of us have God-given talents. Mine happens to be the gift of organization. I am very blessed to be able to use this gift in an amazing facility with other talented individuals! Biggest obstacle you’ve overcome? I was born in Huntsville, Ala., but grew up in Birmingham so when I moved back to Huntsville in 1990, I was a single mother making $5.90 hour. I worked three jobs sometimes to make ends meet.

Mentor/Biggest influence? There are so many people who have influenced me along the way, it is hard to mention just one. First of all, my mother Margie Slayton, has always been a strong woman with good business sense. Before she retired, she was a broker and real estate office manager. She is 80 years old and still line dances!

Tammy Pruitt gave me my first opportunity at Huntsville Hospital.

Lori Millwood and Bob Rogers gave me my first opportunity at the Hilton, and my current boss, Daniel LaBoudiere, consistently allows me to grow.How do you juggle it all? A LOT of organization, humor and we have a fantastic team! How is business different for women than when you started? Many men were in lead positions where I first started working in Huntsville.

I am now working for a woman-owned business with a great owner, Cindy Jackson – Jackson Center.

Favorite Mobile Tool: Social Media:

Smartphone

For networking

Tablet For fun

Smartwatch A Combination

No thanks

With a cocktail

Working

Your downtime is spent: Relaxing with family and friends

Traveling

In your queue to listen to: Business podcast

Broadway, baby

Smooth Jazz or Contemporary Christian

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Brahms, Beethoven, Bach

Audio Book

Kim Caudle Lewis |

CEO, PROJECTXYZ, Inc.

Kim Caudle Lewis is the CEO of PROJECTXYZ, Inc., which she started in 2002. She is also wife to Larry Lewis, and mother to two daughters, Sandi and Lela. Kim Lewis has seemingly found the formula to managing home life while becoming a trailblazer in her industry.

Since the inception of PROJECTXYZ, the company has grown to include employees spanning multiple U.S. locations. The company, which provides customer support in engineering, logistics, information technology, and alternative energy, has become a forerunner in the industry. Having been recognized among the Inc. 5000 in 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017; the recipient of the U.S. Chamber Blue Ribbon award in 2016; and recipient of the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year award in 2015, PROJECTXYZ has steadily garnered the attention of notable sources.

In 2017, PROJECTXYZ was named the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Women-Owned Business of the Year.

PROJECTXYZ’s success is further complimented by Lewis’ personal successes and civic involvement. Her business and community contributions have earned her board member positions for Calhoun Community College Foundation; Cummings Research Park; the Huntsville Hospital Foundation; Health Establishments at Local Schools; the Huntsville Botanical Garden; the National Children’s Advocacy Center; and currently Chair-Elect of the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce.

As an innovator, Lewis has the ability to see the big picture and a knack for preserving a positive attitude under difficult circumstances.

These attributes have made her an invaluable asset to clients, the local community, and small businesses, as evidenced by her 2016 honoree recognition during the Women’s Economic Development Council and also being selected as one of the 2017 Women that Shape the State for Alabama.

With each accomplishment, professionally and personally, Kim Caudle Lewis continues to solidify her standing as a preeminent lead in business and the community.

Who is your biggest cheerleader? My husband Larry, my daughters and my extremely large family. Your go-to phrase?

Your favorite pick-me-up:

Are you:

Coffee

Tea

A midday nap

Walk Outside

A thinker

Your downtime is spent:

A doer

In your queue:

A feeler

Relaxing with family and friends

With a cocktail On Saturday morning:

A healthy snack

Sleep in

Working Up at dawn

Traveling Downtime? What is that?

Hit the gym

Business podcast

Broadway,baby

Brahms, Beethoven, Bach

Audio Book

Work, work, work

“The worst they can say is NO.” – Don’t be afraid because of your fear of rejections. How to stay competitive? Go for it when opportunities arise. PROJECTXYZ has stepped in and made investments when we had the opportunity. Greatest leap of faith you’ve taken in your professional life? Starting PROJECTXYZ was my greatest leap of faith. I was a single mom, living in a city with no family support, and leaving a full-time job with benefits to start my own business. At the time I didn’t know anything about running a business, and I was working full-time for the business. So there was a lot of “learning-as-you-go.” Before I made the decision to quit my job, I had been praying for months for the right sign to let me know it was okay. And one day God gave me that sign and I haven’t looked back since. Hobbies? Listening to Audible Books, long walks and family time. Words/Advice to live by? “Progress is a nice word. But change is its motivator and change has its enemies.” - Robert F. Kennedy Sacrifices made for your career? Time. It takes time to build a business – both in and out of town. I have traveled quite a bit in my career and while it’s nice to visit other places, sometimes those trips are away from family. How do you juggle it all? With faith, a great family support system, and employees I can count on to get the job done.

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Vonda Patterson |

Owner, Rollin Lobstah

Vonda Patterson was born in Germany and raised in Georgia. She lived with her grandmother, who was a school teacher, and her dad, who was military. Her passion and inspiration to entertain (and to open a restaurant) came from her dad.

After being advised, “Cooking for friends and family is not the restaurant business and won’t pay the bills.” Vonda went into Information Technology, working for Corps of Engineers and NASA for 25 years. It was a great living, but the passion was missing, and she got burned out.

On a trip to Martha’s Vineyard, she ordered her first lobster roll and started blowing the dust off her dream. Thus began a mission to try every lobster roll around that area. Sitting on the beach enjoying particularly magnificent, sweet lobster on that toasted buttery roll and watching the sunset fade into the distance Vonda thought she would probably not get to taste something that good again until her next trip. The rest is history. The idea of Rollin Lobstah was born.

She pitched the idea of opening a food truck to her dad and it took a little convincing and a lot of research. She rolled out April 2014 and Lobstah rolls hit the streets of Huntsville, while she continued to work full-time at NASA and run the food truck. She didn’t get much sleep, but she was living her dream. In 2017 she cashed in her 401k, jumped in with both feet and opened the restaurant. She found her dad was right – it’s a lot of hard work but being able to talk with her customers and see the smiles and hear the reviews make all the long hours and hard work worth it.

Proudest moment in your career? Grand opening of Rollin Lobstah Restaurant Favorite part of your job? Being able to chat with the customers and see their smiling faces daily Who is your biggest cheerleader? Well I think I have several, but I would have to say my mom. Goals for the future? Open a second location and several other food trucks Mentor/Biggest influence? Without a doubt my dad. I miss him so much every

Work hours: Social Media:

9 to 5 For networking

On Saturday morning:

Flexible For fun

Sleep in Up at dawn

In your queue to listen to: Business podcast Brahms, Beethoven, Bach

82

Until the job is done A Combination

Hit the gym

No thanks

Work, work, work

Broadway, baby Audio Book

Gregg Allman

day. He loved to cook and entertain, and I loved being right next to him watching and taking it all in. I lost him two weeks before I opened my restaurant, but I know he watches over me. How to stay competitive? A lot of research and trying different things Perfect day away from the office? Toes in the sand and cold drink in the hand Aha moment? Not sure I found that moment yet – still looking Greatest leap of faith you’ve taken in your professional life? Opening the restaurant Biggest obstacle you’ve overcome? Losing my dad right before I opened the restaurant. He was my inspiration and my mentor throughout the very beginning of opening the food truck. I wasn’t sure how I was going to do it but somehow he still gives me all the inspiration I need. Hobbies? Boating and fishing Advice to live by? Be kind and always speak to people, look folks in the eye and smile. It truly does brighten people’s day. Sacrifices made for your career? I think any restaurant owner will tell you that you lose most of your free time – so not much vacation time or time in general. Rule for success? Never give up, if something isn’t working, try something different. Free advice? Keep a smile on your face and barrel through it. Don’t give up on your dreams.

www.eventhuntsville.com

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Phyllis M. Anderson |

Founder of Mullins Special Occasions

Phyllis Anderson is a native Huntsvillian. Her parents founded Mullins Five Points Rental, Inc. in 1975 and employed her in the family business in 1983 as bookkeeper and accounts payable clerk, alongside her brother, Kevin Mullins. At that time, the business combined equipment rental with a small selection of party rental supplies. Phyllis envisioned expansion in the party and event portion after witnessing significant need in the industry. With the encouragement of her family, she helped found what is now Mullins Special Occasions at 1021 Meridian Street, which today, remains family-owned and operated.

Phyllis, holding a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Faulkner University, managed to raise a family while extending her education at Appalachian State University, becoming the first woman to earn a Certified Rental Manager Degree (CRM) in a course designed by the American Rental Association. She is the wife of the late E. Philip Anderson, her childhood sweetheart; mother of two adult children; and proud Nana of 12 grandchildren. Her son, Philip Anderson, joined her in 1996 to continue the business into the third generation.

She enjoyed motorcycling with her late husband as members of the Christian Motorcycle Association; she served as president of the local chapter of Women on Wheels Association - using her motorcycling as a personal ministry while maintaining an active presence in church, and serving on the board of directors of Agape of North Alabama. Presently, Phyllis enjoys occasional time away from work, traveling with her brother or her grandchildren. She also delights in spending time with friends and getting “dirt therapy” at her farm in middle Tennessee.

Proudest moment in your career? This business was

Are you:

On your feet

At your desk

Glued to your smartphone

Your downtime is spent: Relaxing with family and friends With a cocktail Social Media:

For networking

In your queue to listen to:

84

For fun

Traveling

Working A Combination

No thanks

Business podcast

Broadway, baby

Brahms, Beethoven, Bach

Audio Book

started by my parents with my brother, Kevin. They worked and grew the business until I joined them in 1983. With continued growth, we decided to divide the operation into two separate divisions, homeowner/equipment and party/events. Kevin took over the equipment and I have been “throwing parties” ever since. I was the first woman to earn a Certified Rental Manager (CRM) from the American Rental Association. Biggest obstacle? Delegation!

I am very hands on. When my son Philip came into the operation in 1996, it was hard to let him take the reigns at first, but he has proven many times over that he is capable to carry on in my absence. I try not to micromanage and allow others to do their job. Who is your inspiration? My grandmothers were both hard working and strong women of faith. They raised their families during the depression and taught them to be honest, faithful and to persevere through trials. I could only hope to continue that legacy. Sacrifices made for your career? Time away from my family that I can never get back. How do you juggle it all? How did I juggle it all?

By the grace of God! As I think back to raising a family in a time when you didn’t leave the house without breakfast and had a home-cooked meal in the evening, family sitting around the table discussing the highlights of the day – of working full time, earning a Bachelor’s degree in business at night, volunteering at church and non-profit organizations, spending time and motorcycling with friends and family, spoiling grandkids, as I said – only by the Grace of God! Advice for your daughter/protégée? Never give up. Thank God for the challenges that make you who you are. Stay well-armed spiritually, mentally and physically. Give God the glory and praise Him for all things.

Corrie Spearing |

Owner/Designer/Event Planner, 333 Designs & Head of Client Development, South Oak Title

Corrie Spearing is the Owner/Designer and Event Planner for 333 Designs and Head of Client Development for South Oak Title and Closings in Huntsville. She is a Huntsville native, born and raised, who loves life and people. She started 333 Designs over 10 years ago and has been a part of hundreds of weddings and events. With an entrepreneurial personality, she helps other small businesses and start-ups. She has a driven personality and a desire to see positive change in business and in the community.

Proudest moment in your career? Every time an event is complete and the clients are happy – it reminds me why I do what I do. Who is your biggest cheerleader? Honestly, there are a few. My mom always listens and prays for me. She has been there from the beginning and has put up with my passion/emotions.

My friends, Margo, Jamie, Leah, Lauren, Sarah and a few others – they step up, last minute when I need extra hands, they advise me on tough business decisions and encourage me by their support and kind words. Business philosophy? Love, integrity and honesty. Sounds cliché, but if you love what you do and love the people around you and all who are involved, showing all are equal, valuable and important, you will always succeed. Goals for the future? Continue to love people and what I do. I desire to grow, and to become more influential in the community. Most memorable learning experience? There have been several failures in my life, some in business and some in relationships. Each one has taught me more about myself and how to be better the next time. I see those as learning experiences more and not so much as failures. How to stay competitive? Willing to try new things! Never stop learning and branching out.

How would family and friends describe you? Passionate, hardworking. driven, loyal, happy, faithful, honest, optimistic. Free advice? Don’t get easily offended. Don’t spend your life worrying about what others think. How is business different for women than when you started? While so many people have made strides to help support and grow women-owned businesses, the struggle continues and as a woman you still have to work twice as hard to get the same respect – which is why I continue to do what I do, with hopes that things continue to improve for the next generation of women.

Are you:

An early bird

Better after noon

A night owl

Are you:

A thinker

A doer

A feeler

On Saturday morning:

Sleep in

Hit the gym

Up at dawn / Work, work, work In your queue to listen to: Business podcast

Broadway, baby

Brahms, Beethoven, Bach

Audio Book

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Karen Thomas |

Interior Design/Sustainability Coordinator, Townhouse Galleries

Karen Thomas completed her master’s degree in Public Health from Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health in 2005. While at Emory, her interests included research on the built environment and health, specifically the health benefits of nature contact. She later worked in Atlanta with the Sierra Club to help build public interest and support for the Atlanta Beltline, which is now a leading transportation and economic development effort in the region that offers many public health and environmental benefits.

In 2008, she moved home to Decatur, Ala. to join her family business Townhouse Galleries. At Townhouse Galleries, she helps manage day-to-day operations, works with clients, and enjoys all the other challenges and opportunities in small business.

She has a particular passion for contemporary design and art.

She continues to pursue her passion for public health, the environment, the arts and community through volunteerism and service with various organizations in the North Alabama region. She serves on the board of directors of Tennessee Riverkeeper, the Princess Theatre, and the Historic Decatur Village. In 2013, she canoed across the state of Alabama from Chattanooga, Tenn., to Eastport, Miss., to raise awareness for water quality issues facing the watershed. Karen enjoys meaningful conversations, collaboration, time with family and friends, reading books and newspapers, travel and distance running.

Favorite part of your job? I love working with our customers and being part of their journey. We meet people where they are, and often we get to be part of their lives and homes for years. Who is your biggest cheerleader? My partner Kim and my mother Personal qualities most useful for your job? Passion and care How to stay competitive? I read a lot and stay current on industry trends. Perfect day away from the office? I love a day spent being active outside, inspired by nature, followed by a delicious meal and inspiring conversation with friends and family. A quiet day with a good book and family also never disappoint. Greatest leap of faith you’ve taken in your professional life? Returning to our family business Hobbies? Distance running, cooking, hiking, reading. Advice to live by? One of my mentors always said that it is important to have three things: something to do, someone to love and something to look forward to. What is your inspiration? The community. I am always inspired by the kind, smart, generous people I get to work with in our community. Sacrifices made for your career? It was hard at first moving back from Atlanta, but I’m glad I did! Rule for success? Wake up everyday and find a joyful heart to meet the day’s challenges and opportunities. Free advice?

Abide in love. An open heart is where the magic of life happens. How do you juggle it all? I don’t! A day well-lived is the best, and if I am able to do that then I’m happy. How is business different for women than when you started? There are so many amazing women interior designers now. It is inspiring to see us thrive in this industry.

Are you: A thinker Your downtime is spent:

A doer

A feeler

All of the above

Relaxing with family and friends With a cocktail

On Saturday morning:

In your queue to listen to:

Working

Sleep in

Up at dawn

Hit the gym

Work, work, work

Business podcast

Broadway, baby

Brahms, Beethoven, Bach Podcast and various music

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Traveling

Audio Book

Jeanne Allen |

Owner/Associate Broker, Legend Realty

Jeanne Allen is an owner and associate broker with Legend Realty and has helped her clients navigate the real estate market in Huntsville and Madison County for over 20 years. She is known as “Your Realtor for Life,” and anyone who has ever worked with her knows she has a genuine love of people and is passionate about getting to know the families she serves.

A native Huntsvillian, Jeanne taught elementary school for 25 years.

Real estate has united her passion for helping people with her love of community and meeting new people. The combination has proved to be rewarding both personally and professionally. She and her business partner Jim Hoekenschnieder, envisioned opening a small boutique real estate company. They have worked hard to cultivate a familial environment and that camaraderie has helped Legend Realty grow to have over 140 agents in less than six years. They are now the largest independent real estate company in Madison County.

Jeanne is married to Bobby Allen. When she isn’t working with clients, Jeanne enjoys her role as “Gigi” and spending time with her five children and three grandchildren. An avid lover of all things outdoors you can usually find her planting, walking her two beloved dogs, Lily and Susie – or she has been known to run a soccer drill or two with her granddaughter.

Proudest moment in your career? When Jim, Dena and I opened Legend Realty on a property that we own Favorite part of your job? Getting to work with clients that I taught in second grade Who is your biggest cheerleader? My family Personal qualities most useful for your job? Patience, love of people Business philosophy? Always treat people like you want to be treated – with respect, kindness, and honesty Your go-to phrase? Don’t sweat the small stuff! Enjoy life!

Goals for the future? To also have a real estate license in Colorado Mentor/biggest influence? Jim Hoekenschnieder.

He is such a great friend and mentor to me and all of our agents.

He always takes time to listen. Perfect day away from the office? Doing anything outdoors, being with family and friends and a great glass of wine. Greatest leap of faith you’ve taken in your professional life? Leaving an established firm and starting our own company. We are now the largest independent real estate company in Madison County with over 140 agents.

Hobbies? Gardening, animals, sports, hiking and watching my grandchildren in their activities. Words to live by? Ask yourself: what is the best that I can do? Then do it! How would family and friends describe you? Easy-going, fun-loving, loyal, big-hearted and with a great work ethic. Free advice? Be brave!

Bravery is acknowledging your fear and doing it anyway. Advice for your daughter/protégé? You can do anything you want!

Shoot for the stars!

Your downtime is spent: Relaxing with family and friends Your office design: Social Media:

Traveling

Modern and chic For networking

On Saturday morning:

Sleep in

With a cocktail

Cozy and comfortable For fun

Up at dawn

Organized chaos

A Combination Hit the gym

Working

No thanks

Work, work, work

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Kerri Johnson Riley |

Attorney/Advocate

Since 1984, Kerri Johnson Riley has built her practice on two simple principles: protect the rights of individuals and local businesses, and hold large, powerful corporations and insurance companies responsible for their wrongful acts. Over the course of her career, Mrs. Riley has obtained hundreds of successful verdicts and settlements for her clients. Her unwavering professional standards have earned her the respect of her colleagues in the legal community.

Mrs. Riley’s clients appreciate her experience, diligence and commitment to their cause. While fighting for her clients, she maintains her focus not only on winning the battles, but also on achieving the client's ultimate goals.

A graduate of Lee High School, Mrs. Riley has lived in Huntsville most of her life. After earning a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Alabama in 1981, she went on to earn her law degree at the University of Alabama School of Law in 1984. Having raised three children here, her commitment to her community runs deep. In addition to years of service on community boards and to charitable organizations, Mrs. Riley has helped inform countless employees of their legal rights through her involvement with the People's Law School.

With her training as a chemical engineer, she is a problem solver: adept at untangling complex legal issues and crafting creative solutions. She is a tireless advocate in the courtroom. The truly rewarding part of Mrs. Riley’s practice is when she is able to make a meaningful positive impact in her clients’ lives. Whether she is standing up for someone who has wrongfully lost a loved one, forcing a large powerful company to atone for its wrongful treatment of employees, or defending a family-owned business, Kerri Riley is a masterful, compassionate and zealous advocate.

Favorite part of your job? Giving my clients good news Personal qualities most useful to your job? Tenacity (or pig-headedness, depending on who you ask.) How to stay competitive? Make some younger friends. Listen. Learn.

Perfect day away from the office? The beach, baby!

Aha moment? I realized that I couldn’t do it exactly like the guys did, and that my way worked, too. Hobbies? Cooking Words to live by? Trust your instincts. Don’t substitute anyone else’s judgment for your own. Rule for success? Don’t quit. Free advice? Show up. Be prepared. How to juggle it all?

I get up at 4:00 a.m. But I turn into a pumpkin at 9:00 p.m. How is business different for women than when you started? There were almost no women in business when I started!

Your favorite pick-me-up: Social Media:

Coffee

For networking

On Saturday morning: In your queue to listen to:

Sleep in

Tea

A healthy snack

A midday nap

For fun

A Combination

No thanks

Up at dawn

Business podcast Brahms, Beethoven, Bach

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Hit the gym Broadway, baby Audio Book

Work, work, work

Now there are women professionals and small business owners everywhere. But in some careers, and at certain levels, there is still far too much discrimination. Advice for your daughter/ protégée? Make a plan that will allow for you to enjoy your family and your career. Things probably won’t work out exactly like you planned, but it’s better to have one.

Betty Hughes |

Owner/Broker, Hughes Properties

Betty began her career in real estate and property management over 40 years ago in Florida, before proceeding to South Carolina, then North Carolina, and finally moving to Alabama.

Early life as a single mom taught Betty about life sacrifices and the reality of supporting a child with little assistance. This experience provided strength and valuable lessons which would later be utilized through challenges of business ownership and operation.

Betty's relocation from North Carolina to North Alabama 25 years ago was truly challenging. However, she found Huntsville receptive and embracing to her ambitions, with support throughout the community.

Betty actively participates in real estate organizations of local, regional and state levels and currently serves as a Trustee of the North Alabama Leadership Organization. She is a past president of HAAR (Huntsville Area Association of Realtors,) and has served on numerous committees to this organization and the state Realtor organization. The crowning point to this participation was her selection as the recipient of the Robert Jemison Award by the Alabama Association of Realtors which recognizes the long and valued service of Realtors for a minimum of 15 years.

In addition to her work within her career field, Betty also is active in community activities. Giving back, a philosophy that is very important to her, allows her to assist others who may be less fortunate or in need of help.

Proudest moment in your career? In 2012, I was

Are you:

An early bird

Are you:

A thinker

A doer

A feeler

Work hours:

9 to 5

Flexible

Until the job is done

Social Media:

For networking

Better after noon

For fun

A Combination

A night owl

No thanks

recognized by the Alabama Association of Realtors by presentation of the Robert Jemison Award; and currently being a Trustee for the North Alabama Realtor Leadership Program. Favorite part of your job? People interaction - no day is the same Who is your biggest cheerleader? Family Personal qualities most useful for your job? Ability to listen and diffuse unhealthy/unproductive situations Business philosophy? Treat people with respect. Your go-to phrase? Less is more. Goals for the future? Excel in service and take care of customers and staff professionally Mentor/Biggest influence? My mother (of eight siblings) lost her many years ago Most memorable learning experience? Listening to a Lecture on “Assuming” How to stay competitive? Listen – Learn – Ask Perfect day away from the office? Sitting on the beach with a good book Aha moment? Realizing I overcame a huge flaw in my personality – truly a blessing Greatest leap of faith you’ve taken in your professional life? Opening my own firm Biggest obstacle you’ve overcome? Not judging people Hobbies? Love to read on the beach and travel Words to live by? Be quiet at times Who is your inspiration? Hubby, without a doubt Sacrifices made for your career? Did not take the time to “smell the roses” Rule for success? Firm but kind Free advice? Pause. Think. Before responding. How do you juggle it all? Work hard and long, but sometimes, some things fall through the cracks. How is business different for women than when you started? I think we as women finally are coming to a breakthrough – my gosh, the talent and leadership we have. Advice for your daughter/protégée?

Respect has to be earned.

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Missy March-Carnes |

Owner, Massage Envy Spa, Madison & Huntsville Amazing Lash Studio, Madison Born and raised in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Missy graduated from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in May 2000 with a B.S. in Psychology. She is married to Damon Carnes, who left the corporate world three years ago to take over the operations side of their businesses. Working together has been such a blessing for them, personally and professionally. They have been able to nurture their businesses and watch them grow. They have over 80 employees and are so proud to have created these jobs in the Huntsville/Madison area.

Missy worked as a headhunter/recruiter for four years in the pharmaceutical industry. She was recruited by one of her customers, Pharmacia and Upjohn, to be a pharmaceutical sales rep. After working for them in the women’s health arena for several years, she then worked for Boehringer Ingelheima. After her job with Boehringer came to an end when their sales force was dissolved in her department, she made the decision to go into business with Massage Envy as a franchise owner. She absolutely loved the years she spent in the pharmaceutical industry, where she met so many wonderful and caring people who inspired her. By opening a Massage Envy Spa, she has been able to continue her passion for health and wellness through massage therapy as part of self-care and a healthy lifestyle.

Aha Moment? Massage Envy had just opened a location in

Are you:

An early bird

Better after noon

A night owl

A thinker

A doer

A feeler

Your personal style outside of work:

T-shirt and jeans

Work hours:

Flexible

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9 to 5

On Trend

Sweatpants

Until the job is done

Murfreesboro, Tennessee, where I lived. My husband and I went together for a couple’s massage. As we were leaving I turned to him and said, “I love this concept and I want to own a Massage Envy.” I had never had aspirations to own my own business but this was truly an aha moment for me. I just had this excited gut-level reaction to the Massage Envy Spa business model that I had never experienced before. Proudest moment in your career? Being nominated for New Clinic of the Year 2012 at the annual Massage Envy Conference. Greatest leap of faith you’ve taken in your professional life? Moving to Madison, solely to open Massage Envy. We could have opened in Tennessee but we believed that the Madison/Huntsville area would be the best place to start our business – and we were so RIGHT! And, choosing to leave the pharmaceutical industry, which I loved, to become an entrepreneur. We mortgaged everything we owned, moved to Madison and took a leap of faith.

That was seven years ago and what a great decision it was!

Mentor? My husband, Damon Carnes. I have so much respect for his integrity and his intelligence. He has brought out the best in me both personally and professionally. Being partners in business has truly enhanced our marriage partnership. How to stay competitive? I always want our staff to think in terms of giving a great customer experience. As owners, we anticipate trends, leverage technology and listen to our customers. You can’t be afraid to reinvent yourself. Inspiration? My 30-year-old daughter Lauren. She is the person I wish I had been when I was her age. She is so fearless and adventurous! Two years ago, she travelled around the world by herself and this July she will be representing the U.S. in Germany for the world cup in the pentathlon.

LOCAL Service.

INNOVATIVE Technology.

www.southernstatesbank.net ALABAMA Anniston | Auburn | Birmingham Huntsville | Opelika | Sylacauga GEORGIA Atlanta | Carrollton | Columbus

EQUAL HOUSING

LENDER

www.eventhuntsville.com

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Spotlight

Leslie Ecklund 92

Written by Suzanne Conway Photos by Steve Babin

Spotlight

Get to know Leslie Ecklund, proud native of Huntsville and CEO of Burritt Museum…

both our buildings and our ways of life. You don’t really know where you are going until you know where you have been. I love that I can play a part in that mission.

EVENT: How did you become the CEO of Burritt?

EVENT: My youngest son attends Monte Sano, and I never get tired of the beautiful drive up every morning. It would be hard to work in a more naturally rich setting. Do you ever feel like you hit the jackpot as far as jobs go?

L.E.: I am a Huntsville native but couldn’t wait to get out of Huntsville and explore the world out on my own the minute I graduated from Birmingham Southern College.

I swore when I left I would never return. My father had a heart attack and stroke about 12 years ago and I was back and forth a lot. I started to see the City in a whole new light. I realized how beautiful it is with the mountains, the change of seasons and the low cost of living. My parents’ property tax bill was sitting on the counter and I realized they were paying for one year about what I was paying for one month in Detroit.

Next, I saw this job in the want ads of the Huntsville Times and sent in my resume on a whim. I started thinking maybe it was time to come back home to be closer to my family and I had happy memories of being at Burritt as a child. In the meantime, I met with Paula Steigerwald at the Botanical Garden and she called Butch Damson, who was heading up the CEO search for Burritt. Butch went to the mailbox, got my resume and set up an interview that day which ended up lasting for many hours and the rest is history. If you have ever met Butch, she is not someone you can say no to.

She promised if I would do this she would get back on the Board of Directors and help me in every way she could and she certainly kept that promise! She is like a second mom to me now and someone I look up to and respect in so many ways.

EVENT: I can imagine it would be very fulfilling to head such a wonderful place! I have been on many field trips there over the years and have always been very impressed with not only the fantastic scenery, but also with the engaging staff who seem to care deeply about educating our children. What have you found most inspiring during your tenure there?

L.E.: I am inspired by so many things at Burritt. The top of the list would be the passionate and dedicated staff who work so well as a team, the over 800 amazing and giving volunteers, and of course the beautiful children and families that I get to meet from our local community and those who have traveled to Huntsville from all over the world. I am inspired that so many people in our community care about keeping history alive and sharing it through education, the arts and preservation of

L.E.: I know that I hit the jackpot! Every morning when I drive through the Arch and wind up the drive, I feel a little weight lifted off my shoulders. The beauty of Burritt never grows old and never ceases to give me chills when I experience one of our phenomenal sunsets and then the city lights below appear and the stars come out in all their glory. I know then that this is definitely where I am supposed to be. I’m thrilled that we can share it with more people at community events now that our new cantilevered overlook, called The View, is complete.

EVENT: What is your favorite thing about our city?

L.E.: The wonderful growth we have been having these past 30 or so years. Had Huntsville been what it is today back in 1983, I may never have left and I am in hopes that more young people will stay after completing their education. We have had some wonderful leaders in North Alabama, forward-thinkers that had a vision and have implemented it, to bring us to where we are now and what I think will become the jewel of the state. I love that Burritt has played a part in this growth, serving almost three times the people we did just 10 years ago.

EVENT: Is there a message you would like to share with girls or young women who might not feel empowered enough to seek out a CEO position?

L.E.: This is something I am passionate about and something we discuss in WEDC, the Women’s Economic Development Council. I think that girls can do absolutely anything they set out to do. I think it is up to every one of us, especially women, to help instill this into every young child, and young woman. I have just gone through the Leadership Alabama program and am more convinced than ever that the key to most of the problems in our state and the world for that matter, especially economic development and poverty, go back to education. A good education is critical to ensure all girls are empowered and understand that absolutely nothing can stand in the way of a dream, whatever that dream may be. n

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Huntsville Happenings Written by Judy S. Ryals, Pres./CEO Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau Summer is here! Make the most of it and get out and enjoy the warm weather, long days and fresh air. If you haven’t seen The View at Burritt on the Mountain yet, you’re really missing out. It’s the prettiest panoramic view around. Along with the spectacular view, it is always a little cooler on the mountain.

The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is featuring MathAlive! - a fun-filled interactive exhibit with 40 unique experiences designed for kids in the third through eighth grades. Go on a Thursday and plan to stay for the Beirgarten under the Saturn V rocket. In addition to the fluttering of delicate wings in the Purdy Butterfly House, Gardens of Myth are yours to discover at the Huntsville Botanical Garden. The garden is a kaleidoscope of colors just waiting to be enjoyed.

Invite your family and friends in for a weekend or longer so they can see everything we have to offer including great attractions, outstanding dining and exciting events and activities. Huntsville Restaurant Week (August 10-19) would be an ideal time!

There are nearly 7,000 hotel rooms with some of the friendliest folks around eager to provide them a home away from home. Check our website, www.huntsville.org, follow us on social media and stop in to your Visitor Center for money-saving attraction and sports coupons. Enjoy!

Here’s a partial list of events and activities here in July, August and early September.

One-time or limited engagement performances or events include: City Lights & Stars Concert Series – Burritt on the Mountain – July 6, August 17 Tennessee Valley Hunting & Fishing Expo – Von Braun Center – July 6-8 Rocket City Summer Fest – U.S. Space & Rocket Center – July 12-14 Sip & Shop – Downtown Huntsville – July 14, August 4 Dixie Derby Girls roller derby – Insanity Complex – July 21, August 18 Sugarland – Von Braun Center – July 27 Hope Gala – Jackson Center – July 28 Downtown Huntsville Glow Run – Big Spring International Park – August 4 Huntsville Restaurant Week – community wide – August 10-19 Jim Parker’s Songwriters Showcase – Von Braun Center – August 10 Rocket City Gun & Knife Show - National Speleological Society Conference Center – August 11-12 National Model Aviation Day – 4100 Leeman Ferry Road – August 11 Twickenham Doll Club Show & Sale – Jaycee Community Building – August 11 Seinfeld – Von Braun Center – August 17 Concert at Three Caves – Land Trust’s Three Caves – August 18 Parrots of the Caribbean – Insanity Complex – August 25

Enjoy these events every week: Greene Street Market at Nativity – Downtown Huntsville – Thursdays 4-8 pm Arts on Eustis – 208 Eustis Avenue – Thursdays 4-8 pm Thursday Night Swing – Flying Monkey Theatre – Thursdays Biergarten – U.S. Space & Rocket Center – Thursdays – 4:30 -7:30 Under the Lights – Clinton Avenue – Thursdays Railyard Outdoor Beer Garden – Old Black Bear Brewing Company – Fridays at 6 pm Madison City Farmers Market – Trinity Baptist Church parking lot – Saturdays 9 am – noon Artisan’s & Farmer’s Market – Village of Providence – Saturdays – 8 am - noon Free brewery tour – Straight to Ale Brands - Campus No. 805 – Saturdays at 2 pm Planetarium Show – Von Braun Astronomical Society – Saturdays at 7:30 pm Backyard Jams Free Sunday Concert Series – A.M. Booth’s Lumberyard – Sundays Breakfast Trolley Tour – Alabama Constitution Village – Saturdays at 10 am Saturday Artists Market – Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment – Saturdays Super Saturdays – Burritt on the Mountain – 9 am – 4 pm Concerts in the Park – Big Spring International Park – Mondays through August 6 Geeks Who Drink - Trivia at STA – Straight to Ale Brands – Mondays through August 20 Jazz in the Park – Big Spring Park East – Sundays in the month of September Attend these events every other week: Jazz Jam – Amendment XXI – Sunday Paint Nite – 470 Providence Main Street - Tuesday Look for these great events monthly: Bikes & Brews – Downtown Huntsville - 1st Friday – 6 pm – midnight Thursday Madness – Insanity Complex – 1st Thursday Movies in the Park – Village of Providence – 2nd Friday Craft Beer Trail Conversation Series – various breweries – 1st Thursday Dine & Dash – Downtown Huntsville – 2nd Wednesday Drive Thru Concert Series – Regions Bank drive thru – 1st Friday 5-8 pm Battle of the Food Truck All-Stars – Downtown Huntsville – 1st Saturday (brunch) & 3rd Friday (dinner) Palette Pitstop – Huntsville Museum of Art – 3rd Friday Dinner & A Movie – Cyn Shea’s Café & Catering – 3rd Friday Friday Night Art Walk – Downtown Huntsville Square – 2nd Friday Summer Brunch Series – The Camp – 1st Sunday Be sure to catch these ongoing events: Alan Shuptrine: The Serpentine Chain (through August 5) Duty. Honor. Country. Highlights from the West Point Museum (ends July 8); The Life and Art of Mary Petty (ends July 15) - Huntsville Museum of Art The Purdy Butterfly House; Gardens of Myth - Huntsville Botanical Garden Math Alive! – U.S. Space & Rocket Center Lucky Duck (Downtown Huntsville) and Trains on Main (Downtown Madison) Scavenger Hunts Activities and events are being added all the time, so visit our website and our blog iHeartHsv.com for the very latest. Remember to stop by the Visitor Center at 500 Church Street NW, and our Visitor Information Assistants will be happy to assist you! n

eventhuntsville.com It’s what’s happening!

94

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Calendar of Events Tennessee Valley Hunting & Fishing Expo Von Braun Center, South Hall July 6, 3 – 9 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m. – 9 p.m., Sun 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

This weekend entertainment experience is designed for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. It’s a one-of-a-kind destination event for hunting, fishing and outdoor enthusiasts, as well as the top outdoor retailers and organizations. The expo will feature hands-on product demonstrations from a wide range of hunting and fishing venues.

July

1 Summer Brunch Series The Camp Huntsville 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Revel Events Agency presents the Summer Brunch Series at The Camp Huntsville. This three-part series will take place the first Sundays of June, July, and August, and will feature a variety of local restaurants 11 Cocktails at The View serving decadent brunch options, surprise pop-up Burritt on the Mountain shops by regional vendors, a tasty mimosa bar (plus 4:30 – 8 p.m. other libations) and live music for a full experience to Wednesdays until October indulge in everyone’s favorite mealtime with a capital B – BRUNCH! 20 Battle of the Food Truck All-Stars – Dogs on leashes are welcome to attend with their Dinner Edition owners. Rocket City Mobile Vet will be on site Church Street between Big Spring Park East & West offering services to our furry guests.

5 – 9 p.m.

Tickets on sale now www.reveleventsagency.com for Recurring monthly on 3rd Fridays until October $10 in advance or $15 at the door. Price of admission includes your first mimosa (or virgin beverage.)

21 Car Boot Sale Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment Alan Shuptrine: The Serpentine Chain 12 – 4 p.m.

Huntsville Museum of Art Back by popular demand, the Car Boot Sale returns to Tues.-Wed/Sat 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment the third Saturday Thurs 11 a.m. – 8 p.m., Sun 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. of every month from May to November! Come shop July 1 through August 4, 2018 from a variety of vendors set up on our East Field Parking Lot to sell gently used selection of antiques, 4 July 4 Celebration jewelry, vintage and more out of the “boot” of their Dublin Memorial Park car. Based on the ridiculously popular British model, 2 – 8:45 p.m. this event is a mobile outdoor flea market. Come Activities throughout the day – including inflatables, haggle with local sellers and get the deal you have games, food trucks and vendors, live entertainment been hunting for ages! and finally, a spectacular fireworks display scheduled for 9 p,m. Handicap parking only at the park. All 28 Hope Gala other parking at Bob Jones High School with free Jackson Center shuttle service beginning at 2 p.m.

6 – 9 p.m.

Featuring a Silent Auction/Social Hour with music Village of Providence 4th of July by, Winslow Davis, followed by dinner and a Fireworks & Celebration Chocolate and Coffee Bar by the Jackson Center 445 Providence Main St. Culinary Staff. Proceeds benefit Manna House The Village of Providence will host a free Music in and Young Life: Manna House is a Public Charity the Park event including one of North Alabama’s that provides food assistance to those in need; largest free fireworks shows. The U.S. Army Materiel Young Life is a nonprofit that reaches out to nearly Command band’s “Sonic Fusion" will perform.

1.5 million middle school, high school and college Fireworks begin after dark. students across the United States and around the world, providing role models, safe activities and July 4 Celebration a sense of significance.

U.S. Space & Rocket Center Spectacular Fireworks Show 9 p.m.

6 City Lights and Stars Concert Series: Seminole Strut Burritt on the Mountain Gates open at 6:30 p.m., Music starts 7:30 p.m.

Pack a picnic, dress casually, bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy a spectacular view of the city from the new cantilevered deck while listening to great music. Fire and Spice and Suzy’s Pops will have food available for purchase.

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August

George Neonatal Memorial Fund, which has provided more than $3.2 million since 2005 to purchase equipment for the Huntsville Hospital Neonatal ICU and to provide support for families of premature infants. www.huntsvillehospitalfoundation.org 4 Swim for Melissa Hampton Cove Pool 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Kids ages birth to 14 can enjoy this non-competitive swim. During the event, each child will have the opportunity to swim as many laps as possible during a 5-minute time period. All proceeds benefit the Foundation’s Melissa George Neonatal Memorial Fund, www.swimformelissa.org 5 Summer Brunch Series The Camp Huntsville 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

9 Dinner with Darryl Strawberry Von Braun Center – East Hall 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

His Way is thrilled to have Darryl Strawberry to about the importance of family and faith in overcoming the bondage of addiction that is plaguing America today. Tickets/information: www.hiswayinc.org or 256.859.7377 www.hiswayinc.org 16 Gallagher: Jokes on You Tour Von Braun Center Playhouse August 16 &17 8 p.m.

17 City Lights & Stars Concert Series: Phil Weaver, Dave Anderson & Ken Watters Burritt on the Mountain Gates open at 6:30, Music at 7:30 p.m.

Seinfeld Von Braun Center – Mark C. Smith Concert Hall 700 Monroe St. 18 Concert at Three Caves – Edwin McCain 901 Kennamer Dr. Enjoy a night of music at a truly unique outdoor music venue and support land preservation at the same time. Concerts take place at Land Trust’s Three Caves, a former limestone quarry on Monte Sano Nature Preserve. The stage, surrounded on three sides by limestone rock walls, provides an unforgettable backdrop and a one-of-a-kind experience for concert-goers.

Tickets and information at www.landtrustnal.org/concerts-at-three-caves.

3 Miracle Bash Huntsville Botanical Garden Huntsville, AL 35805 6:30 – 10 p.m.

The evening features a large silent auction and buffet dinner. All proceeds benefit the Foundation’s Melissa

Submit your event at www.eventhuntsville.com

For a complete listing of events and detailed information, please visit our calendar at www.eventhuntsville.com

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After

97

Stacey Spears, Natalie Horne

Pam Stanfield, Christian Elizer

Advanced Life Clinic’s Spring Open House

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

Photos by Steve Babin Advanced Life Clinic celebrated its 2nd Annual Spring Open House on April 12.

More than 100 people gathered to celebrate and enjoy wonderful food, wine and specials. “This was an amazing event due to the support we have from our patients and vendors. A special thank you goes out to our vendors who helped provide the refreshments and the wonderful specials for our patients,” said Administrator Chris Hutton. n

Patrick Lawler, Steve Marshall

Morri Yancy, David Kunter

Steve Marshall at The Reserve at Lake Guntersville Photos by Monica Martin The Reserve at Lake Guntersville hosted a fundraising event for Attorney General Steve Marshall at their Community Clubhouse on April 6. Patrick Lawler, The Reserve’s developer, commented that the event was attended by close to sixty individuals. The Reserve at Lake Guntersville is Guntersville’s premier residential lakefront community and is located on Sunny Brook Farm Road approximately 2.2 miles West of U.S. Highway 431. n

Ricia Garrard, Michelle Redmond

Olivia Clark, Teri-Beth Mordecai, Dr. Hayley DeGraaff, Chris Hutton, Bonnie Maples, Tracy Raynor, Johnna Grimes, Julie Landwehr

Jean Albert Scott, Wendy Cochran, Nancy Ratcliff, Dr. Tim & Lei Ann Nichols

Bonnie Maples, Daphne Henry

Kim Brooks, Pamela Gaines

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Donna Duncan, Sonja Pierce, Jerica Wood

Steve, Bridgette & Faith Marshall

Dwayne Ray, Buddy Bunch

Wendy Cochran, Randy Jones, Tony Cochran

Robert Norris, Jack Fricks

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

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Pat & Ron Volinski

Mark Ardin, Leslie Chittam

Hartlex Open House

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

Photos by Steve Babin

Kristy Drake, Megan McCahey

Pammie Jimmar, Matt Meyer

Hiley Mazda Volkswagen Groundbreaking Photos by Steve Babin

Hartlex Antique Gallery held an open house in conjunction with its 17th anniversary on March 30. With 150 friends and family celebrating the occasion, Mark Ardin and Leslie Chittam were on hand to greet guests. A shipment of wonderful continental antiques had arrived just in time for the open house, which culminated with a wine and cheese reception from 6-9. n

On April 5th Matt Meyer welcomed city and regional dignitaries, friends, family, staff, as well as the Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County to celebrate the groundbreaking of the new Hiley Mazda and Hiley Volkswagen buildings.

This endeavor started with Audi Huntsville in 2013 and the Hiley campus will be completed Spring 2019 with these two new facilities.

To kick off the celebration Meyer also announced an ongoing collaboration with The Boys and Girls Club, being a host sponsor, to their annual event The Leaders and Legends Dinner featuring Charles Barkley. n Anna Thornley, David Beddingfield, Jill Heffernan

Laura Mendoza, Justin Janaskie Nathele & Bryce Anderson

Gordon Munroe, Docina Collier, Nat Wilder, Justin Walker, Samuel Thomas

Wylie Trammell, Cory Haralson

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Roxanna, Reanna & Charles Williams

Matt Meyer, Pat Wynn

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Micheal Ponter, Bill Smartt, Ace Kimura

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Erin Brown, Jeidi Pippins

Erin Brown, Lana White

Cheryl Brazelton, Stan Minkinow, Karen Boehme

Meyer and Lee 2nd Anniversary

EmpowHer Workshop at sweatlocal Photos by Steve Babin

Photos by Steve Babin

The EmpowHER Workshop was presented by sweatlocal in partnership with Acqcentric, Cspire, Smart Bank and Amanda Howard Realty on April 15.

The event featured national speaker, author and activist Erin Brown whose workshops focus on providing women a better understanding of their body image, leadership and emotional boundaries. Through lecture and practice, participants align their values with an expanded narrative of what it means to be powerful and female.

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

Jacob Bright, Carolyn Stephenson, Susan Redmon

Family and friends gathered at Meyer and Lee Fine Jewelry on April 19 to celebrate the store’s 2nd anniversary with a glass of bubbly and a huge sale. Owners Cheryl Brazelton and Karen Boehme were on hand to welcome their guests. “It’s hard to believe it’s been two years since Meyer and Lee opened,” said Brazelton, “Karen and I are constantly overwhelmed by the old and new friends that we see daily.” n

Profits benefited Susie’s Wish, a local nonprofit that sends local patients with lifethreatening illnesses on an unforgettable beach trip to build lasting memories. n

Erin Brown, Brittany Irons, Erin Ross, Jeidi Pippins, Catherine Courtney, Angela Howald, Amanda Howard, Patricia Jean

Nancy Boehme, Ellie Sternberg, Linda Pope, Renee Harris

Sonoma Shoppe Grand Opening Photos by Steve Babin

The Sonoma Shoppe at Purveyor Huntsville celebrated its grand opening and ribbon cutting on April 16. The Chamber of Commerce joined with Purveyor staff, guests and friends for wine and snacks to commemorate the opening of the store at 201 Jefferson Street. The shoppe features wine, cheese, olives, olive oils, crackers, and other wine inspired gifts. n

Marge & Haley Loveday

Emily Dean, Stephen Shaw

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Matt & Stephanie Mell, Chad Emerson

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

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