Jan Feb 2021

Stars Dancing for HEALS | Gothic Guild Announcement | Madison Best in Business

HUNTSVILLE

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2021

MAGAZINE VOLUME 15, ISSUE 1

Happy New Year!

The best is yet to come in 2021.

Introducing the all-electric Volkswagen ID.4

Volkswagen of Huntsville (256) 881-1881 | HileyVWHuntsville.com

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FOLLOW YOUR DREAM, HOME

5 B E D S | 6 B AT H S | 7 , 3 2 0 S Q . F T. | $ 1 , 2 7 5 , 0 0 0 12955 Saint Andrew Dr, Athens, AL 35611 • Behind the gates of Brigadoon, a gated waterfront community, you will 昀nd a lovely French manor nestled into a

hillside on the banks of Wheeler Lake. From the welcoming entrance, the home opens grandly to showcase a spiral staircase and scenic water views. Custom designed, built to bespoke speci昀cations using the highest quality materials. Incredible views, dream amenities & exceptional craftsmanship. Main level has an owner’s wing with ensuite spa bath. Gourmet kitchen with a walk out to terrace overlooking lush green yard & gorgeous water views. Luxury is evident in every detail. An artistically designed multi story home crafted to frame coveted views spreading over 1.5 acres. One of a kind waterfront villa with private boathouse, lift & an upper deck for entertaining.

Learn more at shaluholman.evrealestate.com.

SHALU HOLMAN . Engel & Völkers Huntsville 320 The Bridge Street . Suite 104 . Huntsville . AL 35806 (513) 491-2731 shalu.holman@engelvoelkers.com ©2020 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act.

WORTHWHILE CONVERSATIONS WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE? YOU SAID THERE WERE THREE… Seek an advisor with deep experience and solid credentials.

Phillip Hamman, CFP®, CFA, who heads our Wealth Planning Committee has often said, “After our firm’s 50 years of working with families, we like saying, ‘This is not our first rodeo!’”. In a complicated world that finds intersections between taxes, investments, risk management and the like, look for an experienced fiduciary advisor who is part of a wellcredentialled team that includes CPAs, attorneys, and other similarly designated professionals to collaborate on your advice.

Members of Cadence Bank’s Wealth Management Team, and Wealth Advisors from Linscomb & Williams, discuss the benefits of sound advice for wealth planning in this new “strange” world.

(Left to right: Phillip Hamman, CFA, CFP®; Sheri Robinson, CPA, CFP®, AEP®; J. Harold Williams, CPA/PFS, CFP®; Lisa Abbott, Senior Vice President; Chris Russell, Senior Vice President)

EVERYONE AGREES – 2020 MAKES THIS WORLD LOOK “STRANGE”. WHAT’S THE IMPLICATION FOR WEALTH PLANNING? Three things we hear from our families are these. Interest rates are virtually zero meaning that traditional “safe” investments are offering no meaningful return. Our retired clients are mostly in a “higher risk” age category from a pandemic context. Now more home-bound, they see changing spending patterns. They need to re-evaluate budgets and capital sustainability. Also, living through a bitterly partisan election cycle this year leads to a lot of uncertainty about the future economic and investing environment.

SO, MOST COULD BENEFIT FROM SOME SOUND ADVICE TO ADDRESS THESE QUESTIONS. WHAT SHOULD ONE LOOK FOR IN WEALTH ADVICE? There are three keys. The first key is to find an advisor legally obligated to look out for your best interest in 100% of your interactions, throughout the relationship. Despite what most people believe, that is still not a legal requirement for the vast majority of the 300,000+ people in the United States who call themselves “financial advisors”. Get that assurance in writing.

WITH THE RIGHT ADVISOR, ARE PEOPLE LIKELY TO HEAR NEW AND DIFFERENT ADVICE THAN WHAT WAS SAID BEFORE WE ENTERED THIS STRANGE WORLD? Probably not as different as one might imagine. Good disciplined financial decision-making is a long-term exercise and should not be unduly reactive. That said, we are finding that our advice has to be somewhat adaptable to these newer challenges. Our team is ready right now to meet, either inperson, or virtually, to discuss the challenges you see in your current world.

For more information, or a copy of our Form ADV, Part II, with all of our disclosures, call Sheri Robinson at 205 868 3331 or visit www.linscomb-williams.com.

CHRIS RUSSELL

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, MARKET EXECUTIVE, WEALTH SERVICES, CADENCE BANK, N.A.

LISA ABBOTT

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, MARKET EXECUTIVE, WEALTH SERVICES, CADENCE BANK, N.A.

SHERI ROBINSON, CPA, CFP®, AEP®

DIRECTOR, LINSCOMB & WILLIAMS, SUBSIDIARY OF CADENCE BANK

PHILLIP HAMMAN, CFA, CFP®

PRESIDENT, LINSCOMB & WILLIAMS, SUBSIDIARY OF CADENCE BANK

HAROLD WILLIAMS, CPA/PFS, CFP®

CHAIRMAN & CEO, LINSCOMB & WILLIAMS, SUBSIDIARY OF CADENCE BANK

312 Clinton Avenue West Huntsville, Alabama 35801 256 532 2690 www.linscomb-williams.com

Linscomb & Williams is not an accounting firm. Subsidiary of Cadence Bank. Investment Products: Not insured by FDIC. Not bank guaranteed. May lose value. Not insured by any Federal Government Agency. Not a bank deposit.

FOLLOW YOUR DREAM, HOME

8 B E D S | 1 1 B AT H S | 1 4 , 0 0 0 S Q . F T. | $ 3 , 1 9 9 , 5 0 0 3 Ledge View Drive Huntsville, AL 35802 • “Because Huntsville looks even better from the top” • Rare opportunity to own a truly one of a kind custom built estate

home sitting majestically atop the highest point in Huntsville in the coveted gated community of The Ledges. Experience breathtaking blu昀 views from the extensive walls of windows or relax on the multiple verandas that overlook hole #12 while listening to the soothing sounds of the custom waterfall fountain.

Entering this southern charmer of more than 14,000 sf, you’ll be greeted with luxury throughout with only the 昀nest quality amenities, from the impressive Schonbek Swarovski crystal chandeliers, custom elegant staircase, Carrera marble, impressive columns, and extensive millwork. This custom home was designed with entertaining at the forefront of design, from two chef’s kitchens with multiple Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, to the game room, billiards room, ballroom, yoga studio, safe room, four wet bars, and more.

Learn more at angiekloote.evrealestate.com.

ANGIE KLOOTE . Engel & Völkers Huntsville 320 The Bridge Street . Suite 104 . Huntsville . AL 35806 (256) 520-7983 angie.kloote@engelvoelkers.com ©2020 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act.

January / February 2021

EVENT Magazine

Contents

18 Publisher’s Letter

40

30

22

Stars Dancing for HEALS

20 Editor’s Letter

Zeta Tau Alpha 10th Anniversary

Events

Editorials

22

Stars Dancing for HEALS

36

Gothic Guild Announcement

26

CARnival of Giving

42

Feature: Setting Goals for a New Year

28

Madison Best in Business Awards

48

Spotlight: Marie Newberry

30

Zeta Tau Alpha 10th Anniversary

51

Taste: Healthy Options

34

Autumn Evening Curbside

56

Huntsville Heroes: Dr. Ali Houssan

40

Gray Boyz Pink Party

58

Centerstage: Cathy Lighton

60

Van Valkenburgh & Wilkinson 35th Anniversary

62

Osborne's Jewelers Estate Jewelry Sale

Gray Boyz Pink Party

54 Huntsville Happenings

60

V V&W Properties 35th Anniversary

58

Huntsville Heroes

56 48

On The Cover: Molly Bell, Carmelita Iglesias at Stars Dancing for HEALS Photo by Steve Babin

16

www.eventhuntsville.com

We Are Here For You FYZICAL® Dizziness and Fall Prevention Center is a dedicated balance program led by highly trained vestibular therapists. All our clinicians have completed world-class balance & vestibular certification programs, and they are highly trained in the evaluation and treatment of balance disorders. FYZICAL® is fully equipped with the latest technologies in order to better determine the cause of the imbalance which allows us to provide the fastest, most effective road to recovery.

Our overhead support systems maximize the SAFETY of our patients throughout their care, and can help take away the fear of falling during therapy. If you or someone you know is at risk for a fall, call today to set up a FREE FALL RISK ASSESSMENT.

We provide outstanding treatment for patients with: Vertigo / Dizziness • Fall Risk • Meniere’s Disease • BPPV • Concussions • Closed Head Injuries • Alzheimer’s • Parkinson’s • Pelvic Health • General/post op orthopedics

8337 Hwy 72 W Ste 102 | Madison, AL 35758 | 256.319.6515

www.eventhuntsville.com

17

EVENT

HUNTSVILLE

A Letter from the Publisher

MAGAZINE

President/Publisher Todd Stephenson Editor Lori Boatfield Writers Kimberly Ballard Lori Connors Suzanne Conway Nina E. Woody Contributing Writers Camille McKinney Maia A. Newman Judy Ryals Lead Graphic Design Creative Director/Layout Patty Satterly Graphic Design/Website Jim Gharib/IG Webs Graphic Design Amy Pearson

Happy New Year Huntsville!

As I write this letter, we find ourselves in election turmoil, with cases surging in a global pandemic. Even though there is light at the end of the tunnel, we still have to travel through the tunnel. As the current events on a national level may be challenging for most of us, we still have much to be thankful about. We live in a community that is thriving and continues to grow. As publisher of both this publication as well as the Huntsville Business Journal, I still find it hard to keep up with all the new businesses coming to Huntsville, opening their doors and hiring employees from the pool of workers in the area. We also live in a community that supports our local nonprofit organizations. These organizations not only are supported by local donations and volunteers, but many are also supported by grants from municipal, state and federal entities. As a direct result of the pandemic, many of the local nonprofits have lost the grant funds they may have normally received and are now relying solely on donations from the local community. Please keep them and the individuals they serve in mind.

I hope you enjoy the events we have published in this issue. Socially distanced and trying to safely support the worthwhile causes, people braved the environment to help out with their time and financial support. Many of our friends, family and neighbors are almost unrecognizable with masks, but it is a sign of the times we are enduring. Please keep the organizations and their supporters in your thoughts and prayers. And please shop with the advertisers you see within these pages.

They are the ones who allow us to do just what we do. Don’t forget to tell them you saw them in EVENT Magazine!

Lead Photographer Steve Babin Photographers Jessa Harris Mark Jaeger Stephanie E. Jennings Rich Ortiz Jeff White Director of Sales Carolyn Stephenson Account Executives Michelle Epling Distribution Glenda 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 $50.00 annually. For new subscriptions or changes of address, call 256.533.8078 or email subscriptions@eventhuntsville.com.

All contents Š 2021. 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.

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

Todd Stephenson President/Publisher

18

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

private dining We specialize in custom designed events and menus and oć˜€er four private dining rooms.

Call us today to plan your special event:

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19

Editor’s Note

It’s a new year! I know there have been a lot of jokes made about how long 2020 was, and it did seem to drag on and on. I’m hopeful that 2021 will be the path to better and healthier days for our world.

As we look forward, our featured editorial focuses on setting goals. Whether you’re looking to improve your health, plan for your financial future or your estate, or develop new strategies in your career, this editorial can serve as a guide.

We shine our Spotlight on Marie Newberry, a tireless volunteer working to promote and preserve the arts and culture in Huntsville for future generations. At Centerstage is Cathy Lighton, owner of Light On Yoga studio and soon-to-be yoga instructor at-large, as she begins her nationwide travels.

We’ve been honored to attend a number of events this season, whether they were socially distanced in-person, or drive-through events. The nonprofit organizations in our area have found new and creative ways to raise funds for those in need during a global pandemic. Huntsville continues to be the home to generous and caring people who never stop serving others.

While you’re checking out your masked neighbors within the pages, we ask that you take note of the advertisers represented. They are the reason we can promote nonprofit and community events at no charge to the organizations. Please pick up a meal, utilize their services, shop with them online or safely in-person.

And don’t forget to tell them you saw them right here in EVENT! Cheers to the New Year!

Lori Boatfield Editor

Follow us on

20

www.eventhuntsville.com

www.eventhuntsville.com

21

Brad & Heather Mason

Frank Williams, Ginger Harper

Stars Dancing for HEALS Celebrates 14th Year

The 2020 Stars and their Instructors

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Steve Babin The Stars Dancing for HEALS event was on November 5 at the VBC North Hall.

Proceeds provide medical, dental, and vision care to children who could not otherwise afford it.

Approximately 500 people attended including special guests Frank Williams of Landers McLarty; Drs. John and Paulina Waples; Matt Massey, President of the Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering; Ginger Harper, Senior Vice President, Private Banking and Retail Banking Manager at IBERIABANK; TJ Wright, CEO, Offset Strategic Services; Melissa Davis, CEO MTA, Inc. Catering was by VBC with flowers and décor by The Flower Shoppe of Providence; and sound, lighting and audio by Sound Source Productions. Emcees were Mike Wright, VP/GM WAAY31; and Lynden Blake, Sports Director WAAY31.

Justin & Paige Brown, Jen Kauffman, Mark Ardin

The event was made possible by sponsors Clearview Cancer Institute - Drs. Waples; Offset Strategic Services; and Kord Technologies. n continued on page 24

Nethra Sunil, Dr. Shivani Malhotra, Dr. Bhavna Gowda, Drs. Jitesh & Bhavini Kar, Krutika Patel, Dr. Vasudha Reddy

Peggy Lee Wright

22

Makennah Morring, Kevin Moore

Michelle & Julio Driggs

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

Courtney Edmonson, Melissa Davis

www.eventhuntsville.com

23

Stars Dancing for HEALS continued

Jennifer Hare, Tiffany Rentz, Sara Elledge, Amber Bergstrom, Lori Ivy Jennifer & Michael Lapidus

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Craig & Katie Herr

Jason & Andrea Landers, Sandra & Jeff Stephens

Daiven & Ginger Harper

Blake Bentley, Meredith Loyd

Dustin & Amber Gray, Jenna Stevenson, Bill Coker

24

Katie Ashcroft, John Fellows

Hank Isenberg, David Warnick, TJ Wright

Scott Williams, TJ Wright

Casey & Molly Bell

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

LEARN. DO. EXPERIENCE.

limited s e z i s s s a Cl ed for and spac cing stan social di

January Jewelry Making: “Pattern Wire Bracelet” Fiber Arts: “Knitting a Wheat Scarf” Quilting: “Sew Sweet Table Runner” Ceramics: “Darted Cup” Basket Making: “Wall Basket”

February Fiber Arts: “Needle Felted Gnomes” Blacksmithing: “Key Fobs and Hooks” Stained Glass: “Valentine Openwork” Ceramics: “Introduction to the Potter’s Wheel” March 14th Wood-burning: “Vintage Huntsville Map”

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1 Ameriprise Financial LLC was rated #1 in the investment industry for trust according to the Temkin Group 2018 Trust Ratings. The Temkin Trust Ratings (TTR) is an openly available loyalty benchmarking metric. When companies have earned trust, their customers are willing to believe their claims and are more inclined to work with the company. The TTR is based on consumer feedback of their recent interactions with companies. Consumers were asked “to what degree do you TRUST that these companies will take care of your needs?” Responses are on a scale from 1= “do not trust at all” to 7= “completely trust.” TTR is calculated by taking the percentage of consumers that gave a rating of 6 or 7 and subtracting the percentage that gave a rating of 1, 2, or 3. See www.temkinratings.com for more.

tacomamaonline.com

Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC., Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2020 Ameriprise Financial, LLC. All rights reserved.

www.eventhuntsville.com

25

Lori Clark, Brooke McGee

David Wessinger

Isaiah 41:10 Foundation Hosts CARnival of Giving

Tommy & Christie Harmon, Lacey & Dennis Dean

Photos by Todd Stephenson

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

The Isaiah 41:10 Foundation hosted their second annual CARnival of Giving on September 26 at Whitesburg Christian Academy campus. The event serves to honor the memory of Sam Harmon, (a leukemia patient who lost his battle in 2016) to raise funds for pediatric cancer research and support for North Alabama families in pediatric cancer treatment.

This year’s event was a drive-through with approximately 300 attendees in 65 carloads, with 90 volunteers in place. Special guests were area children and families of children battling or who lost their battle to pediatric cancer. Fare was by Hartley Catering and Batter Up Cakes; with entertainment by DJ Tom Schuster; in-car carnival games, a photo booth and silent auction station. Books were available for purchase, with every book sold resulting in the donation of a book to a child with a life-threatening illness.

More than 40 sponsors made the event possible, including Crusader Sponsors FiberRise, Dean & Son Plumbing and Homeland Environmental.

CARnival of Giving Event Committee

Event Chair, Lacey Dean, and Foundation President, Christie Harmon, said, “We were thrilled with the support we received this year, in the midst of a pandemic! The CARnival of Giving raised $100,000 to fund research for pediatric cancer and support for North Alabama families undergoing childhood cancer.” n

Audrey Geron, Emma Land

DJ Tom Schuster

Wade Blevins, Cathy Wise, Gina Terry, Aly Garrett, Jacksyn Ann Garrett

Angie, Britt, Millie & Owen Franklin

26

Jerry, Emmaline, Grayson, Britton & Taffeny Pilman

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

www.eventhuntsville.com

27

Madison Best in Business Awards Celebration

Rebecca & Greg Guntharp

Ashley & Tom Brown

David Bier, Raul Piers

Baileigh Payne, Kenzie Johnston

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Steve Babin The Madison Chamber of Commerce proudly presented the 2020 Best in Business Awards in a virtual ceremony on October 20. The 13 Best in Business 2020 winners received their awards at a Champagne Toast celebration hosted at Tom Brown’s Restaurant on Thursday, October 22. Sponsors of the event included: WTKI Radio, Madison Hospital, iheart Media, 256 Magazine, Madison Living, Rosenblum Realty, Renasant Bank, Synovus, and Jerry Damson Honda/Acura.

Felecia Rogers, Events and Marketing Coordinator for the Madison Chamber of Commerce said of the event, “Our virtual ceremony would not have been possible without our phenomenal AV group – AVO Communications Services. A special thanks to Fred Holland, Mayor Paul Finley, Samantha Magnuson, Hartselle Chamber of Commerce, Desire’d Decorations, The Offices of Spenryn, Huntsville EVENT Magazine, Tom Brown’s Restaurant, All Things Madison, The Scout Guide and Rousseau’s. We appreciate all these amazing businesses and business leaders for helping to make this virtual event a success.”

The virtual ceremony can be viewed at www.madisonalchamber.com. n

Felecia Rodgers, Merrill Wright

Merrill Wright, Shelby Arias, Brenda Buschmann

Sherry Polk, Steve Weisberg

28

Cathy & Charles Miller

Carlos & Kimberly Mendoza

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

Dana Chambers, Elizabeth Brinton

www.eventhuntsville.com

29

Christina Rutledge, Katherine Schmidt

Beth Talbert, Cat Johnson, Libby Volz

Leah Swinney, Mollie Feigley

Melissa Wallace, Natalie Huff

Zeta Tau Alpha Huntsville’s 10th Anniversary PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Steve Babin The Zeta Tau Alpha Huntsville Alumnae Chapter gathered to commemorate its 10th Anniversary on September 23 at Burritt on the Mountain. The chapter was organized in 1963, but after years of being inactive, a group of Zeta Tau Alpha alumnae reorganized the chapter in 2010.

Guests enjoyed charcuterie boards and beverages provided by Burritt on the Mountain.

In the last decade, this chapter has grown from 10 members to an active 70+ member chapter since 2010. They would like to invite any ZTA alumnae to join them, as monthly events are held in the Huntsville/Madison area. Follow ZTA Huntsville/ Madison, Al Alumnae on Facebook and @ztahuntsvillealumae on Instagram for information and to find ways to get involved. n

Paige Knott, Teri McQuinn

Rebecca Bushey, Jessica Kent, Kacie Florus

Emily Hill, Leslie Stanley, Anna Castleberry

Beth Talbert, Paige Knott, Shirley Pugh

Jacqueline Braudaway, Alex Atchley, Debbie Betz, Jessica Kent

30

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

auto 路 home 路 umbrella 路 life 900 Bob Wallace Ave. Ste. 108 Huntsville, AL 路 256-890-0070

www.eventhuntsville.com

31

Dudley Brewer, Stacey Condron

JoAnna Moger, Lowery Riethmaier

Board of Directors Greg Burgess, Jan Brewer, Rusty Stiles, Kavitha Hichkad, Tiffany Noel, Jane Diamantis, Jean Loux, Stacey Condron, Ron Carter, Sherry Bryant, Joe Estes, Sam Barnes

Autumn Evening Fundraiser Adapts with Curbside Event PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Stephanie E. Jennings More than 225 patrons joined hands with Friends, Inc. for their 17th annual Autumn Evening fundraiser, held on October 30 at Huntsville Botanical Garden. “The thought of cancelling Autumn Evening was never an option, even while finding ourselves in the middle of a pandemic,” shared Executive Director, Jan Brewer. “The funds raised

by Autumn Evening are crucial to enabling Friends, Inc. to continue to provide vital support services to the seriously ill and disabled in our community.” This year Friends, Inc. chose to present Autumn Evening Curbside, offering a four-course dinner that supporters could drive through to pick up.

Joe Estes, Greg Burgess, Rusty Stiles, Kavitha Hichkad, Ron Carter

As guests lined up to drive through, they were delightfully entertained by the live music of Lowery Reithmaier and Joanna Moger. The beautiful floral arrangement that welcomed everyone was donated by In Bloom Florist, while the delectable dinners were prepared by Hartley’s Catering. Numerous dinners were paid for by others specifically to provide a dinner for a patient. The donated dinners were delivered that night by Friends, Inc. board members.

Autumn Evening Curbside fruitfully raised $37,000. “We have so many to thank for making this year’s Autumn Evening fundraiser so successful,” stated a sincerely appreciative Jan Brewer. For over 22 years Friends, Inc. has welcomed the opportunity to provide caring and compassionate support to those in need. n

Sherry Bryant, Tiffany Noel, Jan Brewer, Jean Loux

34

David & Diane Hasley

Stacey Condron, Ashley & Joel Essner

Ron Carter, Joe Estes

Sam & Suzanne Barnes

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

2021 Gothic Guild Victorian Cotillion Club Members Following are the new members of the 2021 Victorian Cotillion Club, the schools they attend and the names of their parents: Miss Hannah Katherine Baker, daughter of Colonel (Retired) Donald Ray Baker & Mrs. Baker Whitesburg Christian Academy

Miss Emma Grace Johnston, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Ellis Cade Johnston Huntsville High School

Miss Riley Jane Ragland, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. William Edward Ragland IV Randolph School

Miss Caroline Taylor Brooks, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Taylor Patrick Brooks Huntsville High School

Miss Anna Katherine Jones, daughter of Mrs. Bradley Eugene Jones & the late Mr. Jones St. John Paul II Catholic High School

Miss Amy Caroline Randall, daughter of Doctor & Mrs. Richard Rosa Randall Westminster Christian Academy

Miss Caley Paige Busby, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Alan Busby Randolph School

Miss Mary Foster King, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Joe Alton King, junior Huntsville High School

Miss Nellie Grace Sasso, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Allen Joseph Sasso Huntsville High School

Miss Megan Fowler Childs, daughter of Doctor & Mrs. Hoyt Abner Childs III Randolph School

Miss Tygen Grace Kross, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. David Alan Kross Westminster Christian Academy

Miss Bebe Camille Sharp, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. John Kevin Sharp, senior Huntsville High School

Miss Sydney Brooke Clary, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Kelly Scott Clary Randolph School

Miss Lakelee Michelle Leach, daughter of Mrs. Douglas Kent Rezabek & Mr. Scott Christopher Leach Huntsville High School

Miss Claudia Leslie Shelor, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Brian Joseph Shelor Randolph School

Miss Maggie Moore Cleve, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Bryan Reginald Cleve Whitesburg Christian Academy Miss Gabriela Elizabeth Comulada, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Oscar Alberto Comulada, junior Whitesburg Christian Academy Miss Madison Lee DeOrio, daughter of Mrs. Mandy Manzanares DeOrio & Doctor Matthew James DeOrio Randolph School

Miss Lucy Locke Loflin, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. John Phifer Loflin Randolph School Miss Emma Michele Lucas, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. David Vance Lucas Covenant Christian Academy Miss Sydney Ann MacMurray, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Kory Neil MacMurray Huntsville High School

Miss Patricia Loughman Gavitt, daughter of Mrs. Alison Stevens Gavitt & Mr. Corin Hugh Gavitt Huntsville High School

Miss Reagan Joyce Mayfield, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Brian Joe Mayfield Huntsville High School

Miss Katie Frances Gibbons, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Michael Patrick Gibbons, senior Huntsville High School

Miss Lakin Christine McNew, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Brian Ray McNew Whitesburg Christian Academy

Miss Bailey Elizabeth Greer, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Scott Greer Grissom High School

Miss Sarah Katherine Mitchell, daughter of Doctor & Mrs. William Nathan Mitchell Randolph School

Miss Isabella Rose Griffin, daughter of Doctor Gerianne Elizabeth Dudley & Doctor David Britt Griffin The Way Home Christian School

Miss Isabel Maria Moore, daughter of Mrs. Adrian McMaster Salvetti & Mr. Kevin Lee Moore Huntsville High School

Miss Makenzie Taylor Herr, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Craig Thomas Herr Huntsville High School

Miss Mackenzie Grace Moore, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Michael Scott Moore Randolph School

Miss Vivian Lee Hinton, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Jason Chad Hinton Huntsville High School

Miss Margaret Elaine Paparella, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Bryan Lamar Paparella Westminster Christian Academy

Miss Sophia Alexandria Hogan, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Douglas Lawrence Sims & the late Mr. Steven Patrick Hogan Randolph School

Miss Charlotte May Park, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Bruce McEachin Park Randolph School

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Miss Peyton Reese Sheppard, daughter of Doctor & Mrs. Raymond Larry Sheppard, junior Westminster Christian Academy Miss Hannah Jean Simmons, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. James William Simmons Grissom High School Miss Mary Joyce Skidmore, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. David Wade Skidmore Westminster Christian Academy Miss Corinne Castle Smith, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Scott Burnett Smith Huntsville High School Miss Georgia LeeAnne Stewart, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Christopher Lee Stewart Whitesburg Christian Academy Miss Elizabeth Elaine Stuart, daughter of Mrs. Nancy Tredaway Stuart & Mr. Mark Alan Stuart Huntsville High School Miss MacKenzie Nicole Tew, granddaughter of Mr. & Mrs. Norman Edward Tew Asbury Home School Miss Mary McKenna Watson, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth David Watson Huntsville High School Miss Noelle Grace Webber, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. James Kevin Webber Greenways Academy Home School Miss Madelyn Grace Yates, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Glen Vernon Yates Huntsville High School

The Gothic Guild is pleased to announce that 45 young ladies will participate in the 2021 Victorian Cotillion Club, a program sponsored by the Gothic Guild.

The Victorian Cotillion Club was chartered in 1985. Each year, members are given five weeks of instruction emphasizing the timeless social graces that continue to befit today’s lifestyle.

Social activities of the Victorian Cotillion will include a formal mother-daughter tea, a formal dinner at Valley Hill Country Club, and a father-daughter luncheon at The Ledges. The Victorian Cotillion Dinner Dance will be held at the VBC North Hall on June 19, 2021.

The members of the Victorian Cotillion Club must be enrolled as a sophomore in a high school in Madison County. Other criteria for selection include a good academic record as well as demonstration of leadership through participation in school, church, social, and civic activities.

The purpose of the Gothic Guild is to promote the cultural, educational and historical preservation of Huntsville and Madison County. Proceeds from this year’s events will benefit Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theater and Academy.

Photos by Mark Jaeger

Top photo Back Row Isabella Rose Griffin, Makenzie Taylor Herr, Vivian Lee Hinton, Sophia Alexandria Hogan Front Row Madison Lee DeOrio, Patricia Loughman Gavitt, Katie Frances Gibbons, Bailey Elizabeth Greer

Center photo Back Row Megan Fowler Childs, Caley Paige Busby, Caroline Taylor Brooks, Hannah Katherine Baker Front Row Gabriela Elizabeth Comulada, Maggie Moore Cleve, Sydney Brooke Clary

Bottom photo Back Row Lakelee Michelle Leach, Lucy Locke Loflin, Emma Michele Lucas, Sydney Ann MacMurray Front Row Emma Grace Johnston, Anna Katherine Jones, Mary Foster King, Tygen Grace Kross

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Back Row Isabel Marie Moore, Mackenzie Grace Moore, Margaret Elaine Paparella, Charlotte May Park Front Row Reagan Joyce Mayfield, Laken Christine McNew, Sarah Katherine Mitchell

Back Row Bebe Camille Sharp, Claudia Leslie Shelor, Peyton Reese Sheppard, Hannah Jean Simmons Front Row Riley Jane Ragland, Amy Caroline Randall, Nellie Grace Sasso

Back Row Elizabeth Elaine Stuart, MacKenzie Nicole Tew, Mary McKenna Watson, Madelyn Grace Yates Front Row Mary Joyce Skidmore, Corinne Castle Smith, Georgia LeeAnn Stewart

Not pictured: Noelle Grace Webber

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Jessica Boyd, Marie Arighi

Sara Wood, Macie Couey

The “Gray Boyz” Throw a Pink Party

Kaki Morrow, Karen Borden, Cherry Hammonds, Anna Duncan

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Steve Babin The Gray brothers partnered with the American Cancer Society to raise awareness and resources for the fight against breast cancer. Gathering at Mars Music Hall on September 24, the brothers hosted the event for the second year to honor their late mother, Deborah Gray.

Among the 200 attendees were honorees Lydia Cole and Brandi Van Dam. Flowers and decor were provided by Scott Adams of Dr. Carpenter’s Catering and Events in New Hope. The O’Dell Johnson Duo entertained. Making the event possible was Presenting Sponsor Matt Meyer and Hiley Huntsville; and Platinum Sponsor Stella’s Elixir Lounge.

“The event was a success during a time of great adversity, but the Huntsville and surrounding community made it possible, not to mention the amazing small business community!” said Dustin Gray.

The American Cancer Society named Donny, Derek and Dustin Gray as Real Men of the Year for the 2020 Real Men Wear Pink campaign in North Alabama. The award recognizes their leadership in the fight against cancer. Between the three, they raised a total of $20,000. n

David Peden, Mandy DeOrio, Lori & Matt Meyer

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Lindsay, Donny, Derek, Ashley, Amber & Dustin Gray

Dr. Hayley DeGraaff, Chris Hutton

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

Amy & Tom Fann

Amber Gray, Jenna Stevenson

David Peden, Mandy DeOrio

Scott Adams, Amber Gray

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Mark & Kim Robinson, Carrole & Eric Hedges

Jack Howell, Jan Morgan

Alicia Helton, Ava Rosetti, Jordan West, Sarah Otto

Shari Windsor, Candice Weeks, Lindsay Gray, Brandy Van Dam

Rob Clark, Maryna Tsymbalar

Lydia Cole, Susan Rogers

LaQuaize Jackson, Brittany Brown-Jackson, Urvi & Vishvas Patel

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

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Setting

Goals for the New Year

Personal & Professional Development • Wellness • Estate & Retirement Planning As we begin a new year, we often take time to examine our lives and set goals for our personal life, finances and health. Different than New Year’s resolutions, these goals should be visited throughout the year to assess progress.

Setting and achieving goals provides direction, focus, clarity and motivation.

Whether it’s preparing your estate to ease the burden for your loved ones, planning for retirement, making strides in your profession or focusing on wellness, we’ve gathered experts in each field for advice, plus some familiar faces giving a “Look at Real Life.” Read on to find their recommendations.

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Connecting to your Goals: Find Meaning First

by Camille McKinney, Leadership Coach and Consultant New Year’s Day, my favorite holiday, is right around the corner. For me, it represents an opportunity to reflect on what’s coming to an end (buh-bye, 2020!) and designing a new beginning. The idea of starting over is so attractive; I get to put the past year behind me and start again…

2.

Some questions to consider: • Why is this goal important to ME? • Is the pain of the status quo MORE than the pain of changing?

• How will I FEEL when I achieve this goal?

• What will my life be like if I do NOTHING toward achieving this goal? Three months from now, six months from now, a year from now…

Creating New Year’s resolutions is that annual activity that often sets us up to fail. Unless you have some super-human level of discipline, this scenario is probably familiar: by the end of February, maybe sooner, those resolutions are in your rear view mirror.

As a Leadership Coach, goal achievement is the foundation of my work. Goals are SMART when they are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and timebased. Professional goals are usually tied to a larger outcome with a clear level of accountability, like one’s performance review or annual bonus.

As for personal goals, WE are responsible for holding ourselves accountable. So unless you’ve got someone paying you every time you hit the gym, the motivation to stick with it is all on you.

Here are a few tips to consider when creating (and achieving) personal goals: 1.

Identify your priorities. In my experience, goals tied to priorities have a better chance of success. What are your priorities? If you’re not sure, just take a look at what you were focused on this last year. If spending time with family is a priority, yet you were consistently putting in a 60-hour work week, what changes can you make to honor your priority around making time for family?

Connect to your goals. If any of your goals are simply a ‘to do’ without any personal meaning, your commitment to achieving the goal can be at risk.

3.

Get some support. If you’re serious about achieving your goals, consider getting some support. Creating some level of personal accountability to another person can help. One way to do this is by identifying an accountability partner with a similar goal. Want to exercise more? Find someone who is willing to hit the gym with you (post-COVID) or walk that trail three mornings a week. Your commitment to another person makes it harder to back out. Another option? Hire a professional coach! A coach can help you define your goals and the right action steps to take to achieve them. Trust me…there’s a coach out there whose coaching focuses on the changes you want to make.

Finally, if any of your goals are driven by a ‘should,’ go back to those questions in tip #2. Again, we are more apt to achieve the goals we create when we meaningfully CONNECT to the desired outcome. n

Camille McKinney is a Leadership Coach, consultant, and speaker at Leveraged Leaders; she helps women get out of their own way so they can gain the CLARITY and CONFIDENCE to show up as the leader they are meant to be in ALL areas of their life. Before becoming a professional Leadership Coach and Consultant, Camille worked for over 25 years as a training and performance consulting professional in the banking and healthcare industries, most recently leading a team of sales training professionals.

Camille lives in Southern California with her husband and two rambunctious cats. To learn more about how you might work with Camille and the programs she offers, visit her website at www.leveragedleaders.com.

A look at real life: Sometimes I look at super successful people and think, “They must have all the time in the world.”

In reality, they find micro-chunks of time and have Made it Easy (as mentioned in the book “Atomic Habits” by James Clear) by focusing on the repetition of doing that task over and over again.

What are some micro-moments in your life you could overhaul this year in 2021? Here are a few ideas to get you started.

• Setting an alarm to write your memoir for five minutes every day at lunchtime • Preparing a healthy mid-morning snack/smoothie on Sunday for the entire week so that decision is already made.

• Getting on that exercise equipment that is now a coat hanger for just five minutes every night before bedtime. If you biked for five minutes every day for 30 days and you can bike two miles a day at the end of the month that's 60 miles!!!

There are many micro ways we can improve our lives. Believe it or not, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure this out, even if we are in the Rocket City! It takes intentional decisions and finding ways to clear paths of resistance along the way. Here’s to starting the year one small step for man to help make one giant leap for 2021!

Michelle Epling Account Executive Huntsville EVENT Magazine

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Getting Healthy: Setting Goals for Wellness What does wellness mean to you? Merriam-Webster defines wellness as the quality or state of being in good health, especially as an actively sought goal. Wellness doesn’t just apply to your physical self, but your mental and emotional health.

Nutrition The way we fuel our bodies affects overall health, and impacts how we feel, how well we rest, and even our brain function. Information from Ruth’s Nutrition suggests that health and wellness is a puzzle that may be solved with proper nutrition and the right supplements; from blood sugar, digestive wellness, skin care, mood management and weight management.

According to a post entitled Nutrition Goals on myintakepro.com, setting nutrition goals is important for everyone: Your diet shapes your health and wellbeing more than any other modifiable lifestyle factor in your life. When setting goals for nutrition, long-term dietary trends are what matters most.

Ongoing nutritional intake patterns over time are important metrics to monitor when setting goals.

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The Burden of Disease report published by Journal of the American Medical Association identified dietary risks as the number one disease risk factor.

Fitness Setting goals for weight loss may be the most popular resolution made for a new year. Those goals may also be the most quickly discarded. According to verywellfit.com, setting goals for weight loss should include reasonable fitness goals like: completing planned workouts for the week; doing something active every day; drinking more water each day; standing up and stretching or walking every hour; getting more sleep most nights of the week; and taking a walk after dinner instead of watching TV. At Madison Fit Body Boot Camp, they recommend their unique style of workout, using High Intensity Interval Training and Active Rest Training to work the whole body. “With the rush that these workouts provide to your metabolism, your body will be able to burn extra fat for as long as 32 hours,” said Tina Ayers, owner and personal trainer who holds a degree in nutrition. n

A look at real life: Having a personalized nutrition program is changing my life. I'm developing healthier habits, losing weight, feeling better and taking control of my well-being. The Jenny Craig program holds me accountable, teaches me how to deal with tough days, and motivates me.

Carolyn Stephenson Director of Sales Huntsville EVENT Magazine

Sources: Madison Fit Body Boot Camp fitbodybootcamp.com Ruth’s Nutrition ruthsnutrition.com myintakepro.com and verywellfit.com

To Retirement and Beyond: Setting Goals for Investment and Retirement When we think of retirement, we tend to think of it as a long way off. But it’s never to early or too late to begin setting goals for it.

A look at real life: As I worked on putting together this editorial, it motivated me to consider our retirement plan.

Are we saving enough? Will we be able to maintain our lifestyle? We joke with our parents about spending our inheritance when they make a major purchase or take a long trip, but if we make the right decisions now, we will give our kids the chance to make those jokes with us when we retire.

Lori Boatfield Editor Huntsville EVENT Magazine

Planning for retirement begins by examining your lifestyle and needs now. According to the Clowers Wealth Management Group, it begins with a conversation about what they term a Confident Retirement approach, which focuses on key financial areas including: • Covering Essentials • Ensuring Lifestyle • Preparing for the unexpected • Leaving a legacy “By identifying clear steps to take toward your goals, we can help take the uncertainty out of planning your financial future. Working together, we can help you feel more confident, connected, and in control of your financial life,” said Jason Clowers.

It is also recommended that you prepare information about your current financial status by sharing information about accounts and income. For example, having a list of current income and expenses; bank investment statements, home and real estate, retirement accounts and insurance policies.

When it comes to investments, it’s important to consider risk tolerance, which refers to one’s ability to endure market volatility That affects how your wealth advisor develops an appropriate investment strategy. Those nearing retirement and those who are already retired will have a different investment focus than someone who is just beginning to invest. In retirement, asset allocation should generate income from savings while growing the overall portfolio.

Before meeting with a financial advisor, the Clowers Group recommends asking the following questions about retirement: • “What are your most important financial goals right now?”

• “What concerns you most about your finances?”

Source: Clowers Wealth Management Group ameripriseadvisors.com

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Saving your assets: Setting Goals for Estate Planning If getting your estate planning documents together is one of your goals for 2021, there are several simple steps of review, collection and reflection you can take now to reach that goal early in 2021. First, review your asset and debts and put together a simple list, which should include just the type of asset and the approximate value.

In addition to your home, your investment accounts, and retirement accounts, be sure to include your out of state property, life insurance, and any business or partnership interest you may have.

Next, make a copy of your important papers, such as birth certificates, deeds, car registration, a list of passwords, and even copies of bank and investment statements.

Be sure the original documents are in a safe, fire-proof location. Not only is it a good idea to have all of these important papers in one place, but a review of them will ensure that you have included everything on your asset list in step one. Put with your important papers the contact information for your family members.

Easy access to contact information is especially important for families that are spread out nationally and internationally, as many Huntsville families are.

anyone in your family requires special care. This can be a parent, child, or sibling who has special needs or disabilities, mental health issues, or substance abuse struggles.

Once you have taken these steps, you are ready to sit down with an estate planning attorney to discuss how you want your assets to pass at your death: you know what you have, what makes your family unique, and who in your family might need special care or attention after you are gone. Taking these steps of review, collection, and reflection about your family, will help your attorney craft an estate plan that is tailored to your particular situation.

At Hinson & Hinson we try to make this process easy for our clients by providing an Estate Planning Fact Sheet for them to collect the information and to review together.

Maia A. Newman

Finally, spend a few minutes reflecting on your unique family situations, for example, whether you or your extended family members have blended families, Source: stepchildren, step-grandchildren, divorce, adoption, or Hinson & Hinson, P.C., Huntsville non-traditional relationships. Also consider whether www.hinsonlaw.com

A look at real life: Life can take unexpected turns. It did for us seven years ago when my father passed away suddenly.

He was gone without preparing his will or leaving information about his business, and without letting my mother know how he paid the bills. My sisters and I tried to help my distraught mother with phone calls but no one would speak to us because we weren’t named on the accounts.

We ended up going through the probate process and having my mother listed as the executor to get the needed documents. A lot of loose ends needed to be tied up to get through this process.

My advice is to consider the following steps when setting goals for estate planning: • Contact an attorney familiar with estate planning: • This may include drawing up a will if you don’t have one already, whether you think your estate is worth much or little. It is the guideline followed in the legal division of property and can help avoid family disputes.

• Plan for a financial and healthcare powerof-attorney that would enable a family member or trusted person to act on your behalf if you are incapacitated.

• Consider downsizing your belongings. Doing this with your children is a way to reveal what pieces hold special meaning for them, as well to reminisce.

Patty Satterly Creative Director Huntsville EVENT Magazine

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Marie Newberry

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Written by Lori J. Connors Photos by Steve Babin

Spotlight

For Marie Newberry, playing an active part in the community and making the most of what Huntsville has to offer is important. Not just for her generation, but for the generations that follow.

As a child, Newberry and her family arrived in Huntsville as part of the NASA Space race. “We moved here around 1960 or so,” said Newberry. “I grew up in Huntsville.

I was not born here, but from first grade on, I was raised here.

Growing up in Westbury Estates, Newberry was part of the second graduating class at Grissom High School. The school was so new, there wasn’t even a cafeteria. Students either brought their lunch or ordered from McDonald’s. There were no PE classes either, so Newberry learned to play bridge during the open period.

As a Junior at Grissom, Newberry met her future husband, Joe, who is the President and CEO of Redstone Federal Credit Union. The couple met while taking a data programming class, learning old school technology like FORTRAN and COBAL. After graduation, Newberry set her sights on accounting as a career path. “My freshman year I went to UAH, but then I went on to Auburn,” said Newberry.

“I graduated from Auburn with an accounting degree, and I worked as an accountant,” said Newberry. “I retired in 2007. I had a good career, a good job. Joe and I raised both our kids, Michelle and Scott here.”

As legacy kids, Michelle and Scott both graduated from Grissom and went on to Auburn. “We raised them as an Auburn family,” said Newberry. “They both went to Auburn, married Auburn.”

Vivacious, upbeat, and energetic, Newberry’s enthusiasm is contagious. After retiring, Newberry found plenty of meaningful ways to help perpetuate the high quality of life she cherishes in the Huntsville community. Volunteerism is truly her strong suit.

Newberry’s involvement spans the arts and culture sector of Huntsville: Arts Huntsville, the Huntsville Museum of Art Guild, the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Guild, the Burritt Museum Board, the Huntsville Library Foundation Board, and the Gothic Guild.

Newberry is an active participant in a large community of volunteers. “I always have loved Huntsville, I’ve always thought we were a wonderful community,” said Newberry. “Thanks to the vision of those leaders that came before us, we have this wonderful place to live. And I felt that giving back and preserving what we have for future generations was very important. And it just spurred me to volunteer in my own little way, to help the community stay as wonderful as it is.”

“If you look back the 50 to 60 years ago when Huntsville was very tiny and as we began to grow, the strength and the will of the ladies and men who volunteered pushed for the arts and the music,” said Newberry. “People do so joyfully. Many people that volunteer for different organizations, they’ve done it for many years. It’s not just a one- or two-year obligation, it’s a joy that they have. Not only with one, but sometimes several organizations. And it’s almost contagious sometimes, the enthusiasm and the community that we live in.”

“The Huntsville/Madison City/Madison County area has such a perfect balance: strong engineering and technological industries, entrepreneurial opportunities, and a thriving arts community,” Newberry said. “We have our own symphony, the Museum of Art, the Botanical Garden, the Space and Rocket Center, Burritt Museum, Lowe Mill, Fantasy Playhouse, historical sites, and parks to name just a few amazing places in the town we call home. We have grown thanks to our wonderful Chamber of Commerce.

How fortunate are we that this amazing jewel is our home.”

“Volunteerism is a part of the social fabric that is Huntsville,” said Newberry. “It’s not just me, it’s all the hundreds of thousands of other men and women that volunteer, and even youth,” said Newberry. “This place is a wonderful giving place, so we each somehow do our little part and it becomes part of a big thing.” n

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BEST Regional Hospital and #2 in Alabama

The evaluation also includes data from Madison Hospital and Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children.

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www.eventhuntsville.com

Taste: Healthy Options

Healthy Options When the new year rolls around, and we think of setting goals, one of those is usually making healthier choices with nutrition.

Nowhere is that aspiration harder to attain than when eating out.

It’s so tempting to overindulge when so many decadent options stretch forth on the menu. With that in mind, some of Huntsville’s hottest eateries offer up some delightful choices to consider, guilt-free!

Murder Point Oysters, Alabama The Bottle

Cocktail sauce, Cucumber Mignonette, crackers

Photo by Steve Babin

Pink Lady Apple Honey Salad Honey caviar, argula, candied nuts, feta cheese, house vinaigrette

Pan Seared Black Grouper, Florida Parmesan risotto, Haricot Verts, squash, carrots, crab tartar sauce

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Taste: Healthy Options Gluten-free blackened salmon salad, gluten-free chocolate torte Main Street Cafe

Photo by Steve Babin

Beet Salad Purveyor

Beet yogurt, blood orange, mustard seed, Granny Smith, Sweet City MicrosÂŽ

Photo by Steve Babin

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Barbecue turkey salad

Served with cheese, tomatoes and bacon bits

Gibson’s Bar-B-Q

Photo by Steve Babin

Barramundi has a firm moist texture and large flakes with sweet buttery flavor. Pan-seared and drizzled with lemon garlic butter and served with sautéed seasoned vegetables

Barramundi

Tom Brown’s Restaurant

Photo by Steve Babin

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Huntsville Happenings Written by Judy S. Ryals, Pres./CEO Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau

Every New Year brings hope, and that’s certainly the case for 2021. We’re all looking forward to much brighter days ahead. I’d like to wish you a wonderful holiday season, and hope you’ll take the opportunity to enjoy the great attractions and activities that offer our residents and visitors such a wide variety of experiences.

The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is offering two brand-new activities in its Underwater Astronaut Trainer: DIVR+ is a virtual reality snorkeling system with sensory feedback that provides a realistic VR experience; and Sea Trek is a fully-guided underwater walking experience suitable for swimmers and divers of all skill levels. The new offerings are in addition to the Discovery and Enterprise Shuttle Experiences also available while Space Camp is on hiatus.

The Apollo When We Went to the Moon exhibit will be moving out in late January to allow a February installation of Dare to Explore: Missions to Mars which will give visitors a glimpse into the exploration of the red planet.

The Huntsville Museum of Art is currently offering some fantastic exhibits including tributes to Gloria Vanderbilt and Frida Kahlo along with an outstanding compilation of Jonathan Becker’s work. If you go before January 10, you can still enjoy Skating in the Park, which would be a perfect complement to your museum visit.

Recurring events: The Legume Room Comedy Open Mic, Salty Nut Brewery – weekly on Tues.

Paint Nite, Village of Providence – every two weeks on Tues.

Rocket City Rover Mixer Rides, downtown Huntsville – weekly on Thurs., Fri. and Sat. Bikes & Brews, downtown Huntsville – monthly on the first Fri. Rocket City Improv Presents, Shenanigans Comedy Theatre – monthly on the first Fri. Mars Music Hall Local Lineup Series, Von Braun Center – weekly on Fri. and Sat. Downtown Walking Tours presented by Scenethat Walking Tours – weekly on Sat. and Sun. The Market at MidCity – Sun. Burritt Folk School Workshops, Burritt on the Mountain – daytime and evening classes available One-time events: Ice Hockey: Havoc vs Knoxville, Propst Arena, Von Braun Center – January 15 & 29 Escape to Margaritaville, Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, Von Braun Center – January 15-17 Black Jacket Symphony Presents Pink Floyd’s The Wall, Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, Von Braun Center – January 23 Ice Hockey: Havoc vs Birmingham, Propst Arena, Von Braun Center – January 30 & February 27 Ice Hockey: Havoc vs Pensacola, Propst Arena, Von Braun Center – February 4 & 13 TOBYMAC Hits Deep Tour, Propst Arena, Von Braun Center – February 9 Ice Hockey: Havoc vs Knoxville, Propst Arena, Von Braun Center – January 15 & 29 Symphony Pops Series: Eileen Ivers – Fiddle on Fire! Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, Von Braun Center – February 20 Christopher Cross, Mars Music Hall, Von Braun Center – February 22 Ice Hockey: Havoc vs Macon, Propst Arena, Von Braun Center – February 26 Huntsville Symphony Orchestra presents Carnival of the Animals, Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, Von Braun Center – February 27 Ashley McBryde, Mars Music Hall, Von Braun Center – March 6 n

Even with the cooler weather of the season, this is a wonderful time to visit other attractions as well. The Huntsville Botanical Garden is an outstanding venue to enjoy the crisp, fresh air and walk while admiring the flora and fauna. Burritt on the Mountain offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic vistas of Huntsville, and this is especially true now, when the leaves that can partially obscure the view have fallen. EarlyWorks Children’s Museum has the Toys: The Inside Story exhibit which is a fascinating look into toys for the young and young-at-heart. The Von Braun Center continues to host sporting events, performances and shows, with appropriate protocols in place, for our enjoyment.

The events and activities listed below are scheduled for January and February. Don’t forget to participate in our February 1-14, #iHeartHsv campaign, which is your opportunity to share what makes our community special to you, and possibly even win a prize while doing so!

Please use this list as a starting point and then visit huntsville.org for updates. Stay safe, follow the guidelines, and support our local attractions, restaurants, hotels, retail and small businesses.

Ongoing events: Apollo: When We Went to the Moon, through late January, Dare to Explore: Missions to Mars, starting in February, U.S. Space & Rocket Center Toyota Field ballpark tours, Town Madison Madison County Marker Challenge, countywide Monte Sano State Park Tour - virtual Rocket City Civil Rights Driving Tour Huntsville Botanical Garden Virtual Tour Science Never Stops, U.S. Space & Rocket Center (online) Gloria Vanderbilt: An Artful Life and Jonathan Becker: Social Work (through January 24); The World of Frida (through February 28), Spotlight on the Collection:Buccellati, Huntsville Museum of Art Toys: The Inside Story, EarlyWorks Children’s Museum Skating in the Park, Big Spring International Park – through January 10

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www.eventhuntsville.com

www.eventhuntsville.com

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Dr. Ali Houssan 56

Feature: Huntsville Heroes Written by Nina E. Woody

Photos by Steve Babin

Even without the COVID-19 pandemic going on, Dr. Ali Hassoun is a very busy man.

An internist specializing as an infectious disease specialist, Dr. Hassoun not only maintains a private practice, but wears many hats as a supervisor, an educator, and a go-to resource for information on COVID-19 in the Huntsville community.

As the head of the infection control center over Huntsville, Madison, and Crestwood hospitals, Dr. Hassoun supervises and directs staff on how to reduce and prevent infection in the hospitals. This includes tasks such as employing environmental protections for cleaning patient rooms and cleaning the operating rooms to reduce physicians’ and nursing staff’s chances of getting infected.

“It takes a lot of work and collaboration,” Dr. Hassoun said, “but I have a team of seven infection preventionists who are a great asset and help for managing infections and providing recommendations.” He added that these individuals are specially trained through the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and the Alabama Department of Public Health.

Dr. Hassoun is also a volunteer faculty member for UAB and the UAH School of Nursing and teaches with the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine (ACOM) and the Auburn University branch of the Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM).

Besides all of these duties, Dr. Hassoun has found time in his busy schedule to become a valuable resource for disseminating accurate information on COVID-19. He has given numerous media interviews on the COVID-19 pandemic at local hospitals, how patients are responding to new treatments, and the importance of mask wearing and social distancing.

In a July interview, Dr. Hassoun stated that he believed that people would be wearing masks for at least the next six months. Now that we are near the end of that time period, he thinks that wearing masks will be extended for another 6-9 months. His main worry is people not following the rules and protecting themselves.

“We were hoping people would learn from the peak in July and try to follow the rules this time,” Dr. Hassoun said. “Most people want to do the right thing but there are a few who will not and do not care if they get the virus. It’s been challenging.”

Dr. Hassoun feels that it is important to continue to be an important source of timely information to inform the public and to correct misinformation about the spread of the virus in Madison County, even if it means working long hours.

“It is difficult to even gauge how many hours I work from day to day especially when I am on call because I am always available to answer questions from other physicians and patients alike,” Dr. Hassoun said.

Dr. Hassoun came to Huntsville 17 years ago. After graduating from the University of Baghdad College of Medicine, Iraq in 1991, he completed his fellowship residency in New York and worked for five years in Auckland, New Zealand.

Upon deciding on a place to move, Dr. Hassoun and his wife, who is also a doctor, landed in Huntsville. “We were looking for a community, not too small and not too large, to have the ability to practice medicine and engage in other activities,” he said.

Dr. Hassoun admitted that the move at first was a major change but were encouraged by what they experienced. “From the beginning, we saw that the medical community here in North Alabama was progressive and open-minded,” he said. “It’s not too crowded here and it’s a nice place to live.” n

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Centerstage Cathy Lighton has been practicing and teaching yoga for more than 20 years. Her studio, Light On Yoga combined her first love, yoga with barre instruction. As she transitions the business she founded to a new owner, she and her husband will set off on new adventures early this year. Along with their three fur babies, they’ll be traveling around the United States indefinitely.

EVENT: How have you helped others set goals and follow their dreams?

CL: We have always done yoga workshops, but we also have held personal empowerment workshops that are more introspective.

We ask students what is holding them back, what are their fears, and we help them to learn how to overcome them.

EVENT: What made you decide to make such a change?

CL: The pandemic has had a lot of people, including ourselves, re-evaluating their lives. We decided this past year that it was the right time to follow our dreams to travel around the U.S. It’s something we’ve always wanted to do! We want to inspire people so we will have a YouTube channel with our adventures on it.

We also helped people to set goals by having a yoga week for Huntsville, partnering with various organizations to host free yoga sessions.

Unfortunately, we had to cancel the event this past year, but we are looking forward to holding it in 2021. I’ll work with the new owner and be in town for that!

EVENT: How do you feel about leaving your yoga studio business behind?

CL: I am excited about transitioning Light On Yoga Fitness to a new owner. I built the business from nothing, and she wants to keep the name and the bones of it, but she also has a lot of innovative ideas. I will continue to consult with her and be an instructor as well. I plan to video yoga on the road and send it to her to stream. So, if I am at the Grand Canyon, for example, I can use it as a backdrop!

EVENT: Have you made firm plans on places to visit?

CL: At first, we will probably stay in a place that will allow us to reconnect with nature - do some backpacking, hiking, get familiar with the RV, and get our feet wet. We’ll go at our own pace, using Huntsville as a home base. We love Huntsville; we are very attached to it!

We want to be an ambassador for Huntsville to others on our travels.

We will take a year at a time and see how it goes. n

Written by Nina E. Woody Photo by Steve Babin

Cathy Lighton 58

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Richard & Nancy Van Valkenburgh

Katie Martz, Audra Lockwood

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Van Valkenburgh & Wilkinson Celebrate 35 Years in Business Photos by Steve Babin Van Valkenburgh & Wilkinson Properties, Inc. commemorated its 35th anniversary with events throughout the month of October. On October 13, 1985, the firm’s first ad appeared in the Huntsville Times, with Nancy Van Valkenburgh operating as the sole broker and agent in a small office on Gallatin Street. While much has changed, the fundamentals of personal attention and customer service have endured and remain at the heart of the company’s mission.

Nancy & Richard Van Valkenburgh

A celebratory brunch was held on October 28 with boxed breakfasts by Bubba’s Silver Spoon Catering; floral creations by Charlotte Wessel of Buckets and Blooms; and Brandi Swerderski’s balloon arrangements. Each agent received a personalized Van Valkenburgh & Wilkinson logo mask created by Allied Printing. The brunch also served as a celebration of the firm’s recent Extraordinary Philanthropy award from Who’s Who in Luxury Homes. n

The Van Valkenburgh Real Estate Team

Vicki Van Valkenburgh, Julie Lockwood, Sarah Lauren Kattos, Richard & Nancy Van Valkenburgh, Sarah Hereford

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Missy Leary, Kristin Davis, Leigh Bee

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

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

The Van Valkenburgh Real Estate Team

Audra & Julie Lockwood

Lizzy Norris, Vicki Van Valkenburgh

Michelle Epling, Sarah Lauren Kattos

Elizabeth Foster, Lauren Holliday

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Margie Dorning, Linda Robertson

Joshua Winter, T. LeJuan George

Osborne’s Jewelers Estate Jewelry Show

Adam Starnes

Linda Robertson, Jake Leonard

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Stephanie E. Jennings Osborne’s Jewelers hosted an estate jewelry show on October 10 at their showroom on Memorial Parkway. Osborne’s partnered with the Singer Estate Collection, which houses one of the world’s most expansive and breathtaking collections of estate jewelry. The featured collection was valued at more than $3 million and included Victorian, Edwardian, Art Deco, Retro and other precious heirlooms as well as pieces owned by celebrities. The event gave Osborne’s clients the opportunity to buy antique and estate jewelry in-store with the Singer Collection’s expert on hand to provide period jewelry information. n

Jami Peyton, Kay Zirbel, Pam Bigelow

Debbie Gaines, Joyce & Bob Dean, Shirley Dudley

Deborah Grissom, Dee Kilpatrick, Tammy Berlin

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Janice Robb, Bradley Shores

Dee Kilpatrick, Margie Dorning, Linda Robertson

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

Everett Osborne