Sep-Oct Issue

HUNTSVILLE

Hope Gala | 5 After 5 | New Orleans Seafood Dinner | Flashback Events SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2020

MAGAZINE VOLUME 14, ISSUE 5

Feature:

Huntsville Heroes

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PREMIUM FOOD IN A RELAXED ATMOSPHERE. RELAX. UNWIND. WE’LL TAKE CARE OF THE DISHES Enjoy food prepared using only the finest ingredients, from Black Angus Prime Beef to seafood that is flown in fresh.

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September / October 2020

EVENT Magazine

Contents

18 Publisher’s Letter

City Lights and Stars - Eric Essix

Hope Gala

New Orleans Seafood Dinner Burritt Museum

Events

Editorials

22

City Lights and Stars - Eric Essix

29

24

Hope Gala

34

ACS Real Men Wear Pink

36

New Orleans Seafood Dinner Burritt Museum

38

Centerstage: Van Brown

5 After 5 at HMA

42

Spotlight: Dale Strong

48

Taste: Fall Harvest

52 Huntsville Happenings

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36

24

22

20 Editor’s Letter

5 After 5

Feature: Huntsville Heroes Roslyn Richardson, RN and Amy Stephens, RN Crestwood Infection Control Specialists Rodney Smith - Raising Men Lawn Care

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FLASHBACK EVENTS 44

Daddy Daughter Dance (September/October 2009)

50

Three Caves Concerts (September/October 2013)

42 38 Huntsville Heroes

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On The Cover: Wendy & Leah Mosier at Hope Gala Photo by Steve Babin

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www.eventhuntsville.com

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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

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The recent pandemic has affected all of our lives. I realize for many, those effects are long lasting, especially those who have lost friends and loved ones. The virus has cast a shadow over our summer, but we continue on with our lives as best we can. I did have the opportunity to visit the beach while carefully social distancing.

I hope you have had the opportunity to get some enjoyment in even under these circumstances.

These situations can bring out the worst in us, but they also bring out the best.

We continue to incorporate our Huntsville Heroes editorials, shining the light on those in our community who are some of the best of us in trying times. It’s great to know the good does outweigh the bad. We’ve included individuals who are looking after the elderly by cutting their lawns; and a duo of nurses who are racing to fight infection, not only for the current coronavirus, but other hospital-associated infections as well. We also are including as heroes, men who are wearing pink and fundraising for the American Cancer Society.

Even in a pandemic, these gentlemen are trying to raise needed funding to help those around them. What a great city we live in, right?

We’ve been out and about covering events of worthy causes and hope you enjoy seeing the familiar and new faces. Many of them wearing their masks...a sign of the times. We talk to Madison County Commissioner Dale Strong and catch Van Brown at the Weeden House.

Please shop with the advertisers you see within these pages. They are the ones who provide the funding for our operation. Don't forget to tell them you saw them in EVENT Magazine!

EVENT

HUNTSVILLE

A Letter from the Publisher

MAGAZINE

President/Publisher Todd Stephenson Editor Lori Boatfield Writers Amanda Allen Sandy Ashley Kimberly Ballard Lori Connors Suzanne Conway Nina E. Woody Contributing Writers Judy Ryals Creative Director/ Graphic Design/Layout Patty Satterly Graphic Design/Website Jim Gharib/IG Webs Graphic Design Amy Pearson Lead Photographer Steve Babin Photographers Jessa Harris Mark Jaeger Stephanie E. Jennings Chuck Mitchell Jeff White Director of Sales Carolyn Stephenson Account Executives Michelle Epling Lee Nast Amanda Peach 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 © 2020. 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

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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

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Editor’s Note

Do we dare imagine a hint of fall in the air? We can dream! This fall looks a lot different than any other in our history. But with patience and creativity, we can make this season one to remember, in a good way.

We’re excited to bring you stories of people who are making our community better.

Our ongoing Huntsville Heroes editorial highlights those going beyond the call of duty to help others and make life safer for our healthcare workers and patients.

Don’t miss reading about Rodney Smith, of Raising Men, a company that not only inspires young volunteers to mow grass, but builds responsible youth; and the army of two infection control agents at Crestwood Medical Center, Amy Stephens, RN and Roslyn Richardson, RN. We shine our spotlight on the dynamic Chairman of the Madison County Commission, Dale Strong. At Centerstage is Van Brown, Convention Services Manager by day, and costumed historical character in his time away from his desk.

We’ve been out and about again, masked and distanced for safety, covering events reimagined or held outdoors. From the Hope Gala to the New Orleans Seafood Dinner at Burritt to happenings at the Huntsville Museum of Art, we’ve been glad to attend and showcase events!

When you’re reading to see, “who is that masked person?” in these pages of photos, don’t forget to take note of our loyal advertisers. They are the reason this publication is in your hands – or on your screen. Shop with them whenever you can. Eat at their tables or pick up a meal curbside. Utilize their services.

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

Lori Boatfield Editor

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Leslie Ecklund, Tomalyn Dombrowski

Joe Bader, Holly Ralston

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Jeff & Denise Brown, Laura & Wilson Shirley

Burritt’s City Lights and Stars Hosts Eric Essix Mary Alice Touchon, Bill & Cheryl Rice, LaTisha Williams, Gina Hurst

Photos by Steve Babin Burritt welcomed back Eric Essix for its City Lights and Stars concert series on July 24. Guests could enjoy fare and treats from Piled High and Suzy’s Pops, which were onsite.

Birmingham-based Essix began as a fusion and contemporary jazz bandleader in the early 90s. He appeared on the scene with two recorded albums of light pop, fusion, and modern material for Nova. His subsequent releases for Zebra Records showed a shift from his established smooth funk to a more mature, bluesier style with a distinct Southern feel. The concert was sponsored by Iron Mountain Solutions. n

Garrett & Emily Parr, Thomas & Becky Petty, Patti & Mark Jeude

Alex Engles Roth, Shannon Drake, Hank Isenberg

Riley Gray, Ada Pratico, Fred Ecklund

Rick & Amy Hempstead, Monty Campbell, Madeline & Mike Goff

Tony & Heather Adair, Kim & Ron Moody

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Donna Smith, Hayden Carrol, Laura Watson, Sandee Riopka

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

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Olivia, Kyle & Aly Mosier Gen.Vincent Boles, Fran Fluhler

Chef Daniel Laboudiere, Jamie Jones, Chef Pierre Leclercq

Alyson & Ken Montemagno

Hope Gala Celebrates 4th Annual Event

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Steve Babin The Hope Gala commemorated its fourth year on July 24 at Jackson Center. This year’s event served to thank the army of volunteers at Manna House – a public charity that provides food assistance to those in need.

The COVID-19 crisis increased the number of people that Manna House served; with those who were furloughed or laid-off, as well as the many school-aged children who counted on school lunches for sustenance. With school closures, Manna House provided 4,000 meals to kids in the Huntsville City Schools system from March to May – in addition to their ongoing weekend Backpack Program which partners churches with local area elementary schools in need.

Jamie Thomas, Angie Toles

Eric & Jessica Watkins

Denise Sharp, Ivy Thompson

Gregory Thornhill, Michelle Hawkins

Manna House Director Fran Fluhler praised the volunteers, “They are the heart, soul and sweat equity of what keeps Manna House running.” n continued on page 26

Shanna Inman, Joy Grayson Sims

24

Mike & Alison Callahan

Shalunda Sherrod, Cheryl Taylor, Juanita Smith

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

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Hope Gala continued

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Kelly & Brett Haas

Barbara & Robert Brodeur

26

Lane & Heather Ragsdale

Tanya & Justin Kelley

Jamie Jones, Fran Fluhler

Donna Stiles, Ruth Basl

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

www.eventhuntsville.com

27

Feature: Huntsville Heroes

Saluting Huntsville Heroes At Huntsville EVENT, we’re in the business of celebrating and saluting heroes. We highlight them each issue, whether it’s at an event, or in the Spotlight feature. But during the COVID-19 crisis, we have a chance to share stories of how people are specifically working to save lives and enhance the quality of life in our community. Join us in saluting their efforts.

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The Crestwood Infection Prevention Team Shines in the Time of COVID 30

Feature: Huntsville Heroes Written by Lori J. Connors

Photos by Steve Babin

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC,) 1 in 25 hospitalized patients will get a hospital-acquired infection. It is estimated that each year, 75,000 patients will succumb to a healthcareassociated infection.

Not only do hospital-acquired illnesses pose a threat to patient safety, there’s the added risk of spreading disease to the health care team and to the community. In a world fraught with pandemic, the need for infection prevention is especially critical.

The Infection Prevention Team at Crestwood Medical Center is an army of two: Amy Stephens, RN and Roslyn Richardson, RN. In the midst of uncertainty and a rapidly changing landscape, these two women have worked tirelessly in the effort of mitigating the impact of COVID-19.

The work of infection prevention is largely behind-thescenes and seemingly never ending. “We do a lot,” says Richardson. “We report to governing bodies, provide policies and guidelines that the staff follows to keep all of them safe, as well as our patients.”

“Our main goal is to prevent the acquisition of infection by patients or employees while they are receiving care or providing care in the hospital,” said Stephens.

“Then, you add on a lot of other duties, like governmental reporting, policy writing, committee meeting preparation, observations on the floor to enforce compliance, just a myriad of things.”

Stephens and Richardson also sit on every committee at Crestwood and are expected to have the latest knowledge about infection prevention, all day, every day.

Roslyn Richardson, RN

Amy Stephens, RN

If the Team’s pre-COVID life was already fast-paced and filled with research and information dissemination, the pandemic took their work to a whole new level.

A significant part of COVID management centers on the management of team members and their health.

“The thing about preparing for something like this, is the tremendous amount of work that came before we even had our first patient in the hospital,” said Stephens.

“I don’t think anybody in the healthcare profession really anticipated the impact this would have on the world.”

The Team met with hospital administration in midFebruary. They evaluated how Crestwood would accommodate reduced patient capacity, reconfigure nursing units, and establish units dedicated to COVID patients.

If anything, COVID-19 has been a rapidly moving target; one in which information changes daily, often much faster. To stay abreast of the most recent research and best practices, Stephens and Richardson check with the CDC for daily updates and changes, information that is essential to keeping staff and patients safe and well.

“That’s been our life since COVID,” said Richardson.

“We get up, we come in, we’re knee deep into it every single day. We write the policies, provide the guidelines, we make sure everyone follows them and then the next day, we start all over.”

“The most challenging thing to me has been the speed of which things change,” said Stephens. “We had to go to them (the staff) often, the very next day after we put something in place and say to them, ‘Sorry, you’ve got to change this.’ And they just rolled with it.”

Each day, staff members must complete a health screening before starting their shift. This is done either at the front entrance to Crestwood or at the door to their respective departments. Team members then answer several routine questions and have their temperature recorded. If a staff member has a fever and is exhibiting symptoms, they are sent home with instructions for follow up.

Crestwood also instituted a mask protocol for their team members. “Very early on, we went to universal masking for all health care workers coming into the hospital,” said Stephens. “Research shows very clearly that if you mask and the people around you mask, you can really decrease the spread of disease. Especially in healthcare where you can’t stay six feet away from your patients or your coworkers all the time.”

As a result of the efforts of Stephens and Richardson, Crestwood has been very fortunate. Thus far, there haven’t been any patient-to-staff or staff-to-patient transmission of COVID-19. “Getting through those early months, having our staff really dig in and do the right thing,” said Richardson. “Then, to walk away knowing that no one got sick during that time, that was a great satisfaction for us.”

“I have been so impressed by the way Administration, Nursing, Environmental Services, Respiratory, Dietary, and everyone else came together and did whatever it took,” said Stephens. “And they’re still doing it – to get the job done and to provide healthcare that is very much needed by people in the community.” n

31

Rodney Smith Raising Men Lawn Care Service

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Feature: Huntsville Heroes Written by Nina E. Woody

Photos by Steve Babin

in several news outlets such as NBC News, USA Today, and Buzzfeed, it has also recently caught the eye of companies and individuals who have donated to this worthwhile cause. This includes Marcus Lemonis, CEO of Camping World. A philanthropist as well as a businessman and television personality, Lemonis recently announced on social media that he was making a $10,000 donation to the organization.

Mr. Smith considers his foundation full-time work, even after receiving his master’s degree in Social Work in 2018. Not only encouraging the kids during their journey to cut 50 lawns, Mr. Smith also accomplishes his own mission to personally serve those across the North Alabama region. “I take care of as many as five or six yards on one day,” Mr. Smith stated, “using only a push mower.”

To Mr. Smith, the focus is all on the kids. “I want to encourage even more of them to take part in this program to make a difference in their community,” he said. “It’s a much-needed service everywhere.”

To learn more about Raising Men Lawn Care Service, visit https://weareraisingmen.com/. n

Five years ago, Rodney Smith had an epiphany. While a senior at Alabama A&M University studying Computer Science, Mr. Smith saw an elderly man struggling to cut his grass. He immediately knew he had to do something to help. That was the genesis of Raising Men Lawn Care Service, a foundation that Mr. Smith started shortly afterwards. His vision was multi-purpose; to provide free lawn care to those in need while teaching compassion and responsibility to the boys and girls who volunteer and provide those services.

One of the hallmark features of the organization is its successful 50-yard challenge. It is open to boys and girls from 7 to 17 years old, who pledge to take care of 50 yards for free for the elderly, the disabled, single parents, veterans, or anyone else unable to do it themselves.

Much of this program’s success is through the efforts of social media. The “Raising Men Lawn Care Service Huntsville” Facebook page includes dozens of posts with photos of smiling young boys and girls participating in the 50-yard challenge. The photos range from kids holding signs stating, “I accept the 50 Yard Challenge!” to others proudly declaring that they had completed it – 50 yards mowed!

“Currently, there 1,206 kids across the nation taking part in the 50-yard challenge,” Mr. Smith said. “So far, every state has been represented, and it has even spread to a few countries.”

When a child first accepts the challenge, he or she receives a white Raising Men or Raising Women T-shirt along with safety glasses and ear protection to get started. For every 10 lawns cut, a new shirt of a different color is sent to the child. A black T-shirt represents the ultimate achievement of 50 lawns!

The program is not limited to the warm grass growing season though. Raking leaves during the autumn and shoveling snow during the winter are also worthy tasks that count towards the 50-yard challenge.

Fortunately, the Covid-19 pandemic has not affected the service’s mission. “We’re still mowing,” Mr. Smith said.

“In fact, we have grown because of the pandemic. There has been an uptick in kids from all over signing up for the 50-yard challenge.”

The Raising Men Lawn Care Service has certainly reached a wide audience. Not only has it been spotlighted

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REAL •MEN WEAR PINK PEOPLE PLACES • PARTIES

REAL MEN WEAR PINK

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Kirk Foeller, Judy Masters, Erin Owens, Tomalyn Dombrowski, Rob Owens

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Judy & Jim Link

Leigh Pegues, Heather Griffith

Burritt Brings a Taste of New Orleans to the Mountain Photos by Steve Babin Guests dined on New Orleans fare, to the sounds of New Orleans Jazz while enjoying an amazing sunset over Huntsville on July 16. The four-course dinner was prepared by Chef Shawn Duvall of Duvall Catering and Peppered Pig. The sold-out event included Jumbo Lump Crab Cake for the appetizer course; a Muffuletta salad; blackened Mahi-Mahi with smoked oyster Hollandaise with sautéed spinach, tomatoes and Creole dirty rice for the main course; and Bananas Foster Cheesecake for dessert. n

John & Gail Barnes, Nancy Herthum, Roger Coe

Jack & Cathy Tackett, Marsha & Phil Adams

Tim, Kathleen & Ben Payment, Kristina Keogh

Beth & David Johnson

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Pam, Dave & Inez Swinford

David & Sandy Edwards

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

Angie & Don Haley, Linda Taylor

www.eventhuntsville.com

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Centerstage

Van Brown Written by Suzanne Conway Photo by Steve Babin Van Brown developed a love for Huntsville history at a young age. A native Huntsvillian, Van grew up listening to his grandmother’s colorful tales of early Huntsville.

His love for her stories and pride for his hometown permeate his life today.

On weekdays, he is a Convention Services Manager at The Huntsville / Madison County Convention and Visitors Bureau. But his storytelling side comes alive after hours, when he can be found guiding folks through Downtown for the Huntsville Ghost Walk – or posing for photos at the Maple Hill Cemetery Stroll.

EVENT: How long have you been involved with the Cemetery Stroll and who is your favorite character?

VB: I have been portraying one of over eighty costumed characters for the past twenty-four years. My favorite character is the one that I portray- Lily Flagg. Lily was the famous bovine who won the 1892 World’s Exposition and was celebrated with parades and a ball upon her return from Chicago. She is still a crowd favorite. She is the most photographed character in the stroll, and she doesn’t say one word.

EVENT: Is the Cemetery Stroll a public event?

VB: Yes. It is free and open to the public. As many as 15,000 people attend the annual event held each October.

EVENT: When can we catch a Ghost Walk?

VB: The Ghost Walk begins Friday, September 4 this year and runs through October. All tours begin at Harrison Brothers Hardware, where you follow your guide on your choice of Twickenham, Old Town or Downtown Tours.

EVENT: What drew you to the Ghost Walk and do you have a favorite ghost?

VB: I have been fascinated with Huntsville history since hearing my grandmother’s stories as a child. I get to share the old stories and history during my tours while introducing people to some fascinating ghosts. My favorite of our many spirits is a girl that we call Amelia.

She loves parties and has even been photographed at one, posing alongside other young women. I always say, “There are good and bad ghosts, happy and sad ghosts and then there is Amelia who loves a party.” n (Special thanks to the Weeden House Museum for the use of the venue and Andrea Vandervoort at Queen Anne's Lace for providing the flowers.)

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Maureen Drost, Marie Barbee

Danny Owen, Christopher Madkour Taylor Owen, Brad McDonald

Niki Jahns, Dave McMahan

5 After 5 at the Huntsville Museum of Art PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Steve Babin The Huntsville Museum of Art proudly presented its 5 After 5 series in 2020. The series that began in 2018, provides guests of all backgrounds the opportunity to experience the museum. Each Thursday, guests can enjoy $5 admission after 5 p.m.

Musical performances and docent-led tours through the museum’s exhibits often accompany the events.

Thursday, July 16 visitors had the opportunity to view the American Master Illustrators and Harlem, Hollywood, and Broadway in its last week in the museum. n

Ken, Alia & Kaimana Stacy, George Mitchell, Essie Horton, Denise Pritchard

Faye Oprinski, Shelly & April Harriman

Tami & Alyssa Mitchell

Nathan Vladic, Anna Grace Langham, Trenton Milligan

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Kenley & Candice Bledsoe

Stephen & Michelle Morring

Adria & Crystal Ware

Thom & Sue Ewing

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

www.eventhuntsville.com

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Spotlight

Dale Strong 42

Spotlight Dale W. Strong is Chairman of the Madison County Commission. A lifelong Madison County citizen, he was the youngest elected official in the state of Alabama when he began the first of four consecutive terms as a Madison County Commissioner in 1996. During his years as Commissioner, Strong directed the accelerated growth of his district during one of the largest residential building development periods in Madison County; and led the efforts to bring a much-needed 60-bed hospital to serve the growing population in western Madison County.

EVENT: What’s your hometown, background, education?

DS: I’m a proud native son of Madison County. For more than eight generations, my family has called Madison County home. In fact, the Monrovia area has been my home my entire life. I graduated from Sparkman High School, attended Athens State University, and began my early career in pharmaceutical sales. There really is no place like home.

EVENT: What was your path to becoming Commission Chairman?

DS: In 1996 I ran for District 4 Commissioner. Being a lifelong resident of that community gave me the opportunity to serve with an eye on the future.

Written by Lori Boatfield Photos by Steve Babin

The work our County Commission has done together since 2012 has both prepared and positioned Madison County to weather the pandemic we’ve faced these last five months. Our team works very hard to collectively improve the lives of everyone in Madison County.

EVENT: On a lighter note, what do you enjoy doing outside of work?

DS: When I’m not in the office or out on the roads of Madison County, many times I can be found working a housefire or motor vehicle accident as a first responder with the Monrovia Volunteer Fire Department. Our family has been a member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church for generations. I enjoy hunting, fishing, and watching SEC sports of all kinds. Most of all, my family comes first, and we spend a lot of time together.

EVENT: Would you like to tell about your family?

DS: I’ve been married to my wife, Laura, for 21 years this summer. We’ve got two great kids – Whitney, who’s starting her freshman year at Auburn University, and Harrison – a junior in high school. n

EVENT: What is your vision for Madison County?

DS: Since being elected Chairman in 2012, my vision has remained the same; to grow our diverse community through sustained economic development, infrastructure improvement, and to improve the quality of life for those who have chosen to live, work, play and raise their family in Madison County. We have such a rich and multifaceted history of innovation, engineering, manufacturing, and more. And we’re seeing such a remarkable change in the industries choosing Madison County to build and expand their business. When you look at the entire package, there’s no wonder Madison County is chosen as often as we are – we’ve got a strong local economy, diverse workforce, and a quality of life unlike anywhere else in our region.

EVENT: How has the global pandemic changed the way the county operates?

DS: As we all experienced with COVID-19, Madison County encountered much of the same challenges as other local businesses in our region. In protection of the community and our employees, I closed the courthouse on March 15 for a total of seven weeks. When there are upwards of 5,000 people a day coming in and out of the courthouse, I knew it was the right thing to do to make sure we minimized exposure risks as much as possible. Those decisions led to keeping our workforce operating without the hazards of moving a lot of people throughout the courthouse.

Our employees truly stepped up in finding new and innovative ways to continue serving the residents of this county, and although a little different than how we normally do things, local government continued to operate as we do each and every day. Much of our usual business shifted to online – from our License Department to Inspection. In fact, we’ve continued much of the same online operations since re-opening the courthouse on May 4 because residents have found added convenience. When our employees returned to work, we were the first to require anyone entering the courthouse or satellite offices to wear a face covering and implement sanitizing and separation measures.

EVENT: How do you see Madison County recovering from the economic effects of COVID-19? What specific plans are being put into place?

DS: In Madison County, we have worked incredibly hard to be meticulous in our financial operations, making sure we always look to the future to ensure we pave the way for the next generation. Since becoming Chairman in 2012, we’ve implemented a lot of cost-saving measures to reduce our expenses, particularly in the areas of personnel and financial management, and streamlined a number of county operations to reduce costs. We brought in a time management system to eliminate excessive overtime, refinanced bonds to considerably lower rates, overhauled our employee insurance program, and consolidated several county department functions to increase productivity. As a result, Madison County has the best bond rating in our history.

These, and several other measures resulted in a cost savings that has allowed Madison County to create a financial reserve.

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FLASHBACK - September October 2009

EVENTS

Magic for Dads

& Daughters

Written by Sandy Ashley

Photos by Chuck Mitchell

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

So, where’s a girl to meet her Prince Charming? That’s easy! At the Heritage Club’s Daddy-Daughter Dinner and Dance, little girls of all ages are greeted right at the door

by Prince Charming and his companion, Cinderella.

At this year’s annual event, an early celebration of Father’s Day, daughters dressed in their fairy-taleprincess best arrived on the arms of handsome dads ready to celebrate a magical evening.

Club owner John Esneault says of the event, “This is the best event at the Heritage Club that I’ve ever been

to…My daughter has been talking about it for a month!” In addition to an inspired meal, live piano music and dancing, dads and daughters enjoyed longstemmed roses, photos with the fairy tale characters, and the timeless experience of horse-drawn carriage rides through downtown Huntsville. Many special moments came later in the evening, as daughters were presented to their dads. One father, David Edwards, appreciated the beauty of the event as he commented, “She [my daughter McKenzie] is the best thing that ever happened to me.” n continued on page 46

Emma & Kirk Hodgens

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Sarah, Scott, & Emma Miller

Ashley & Michael Dombrowski

Ted Edwards, Gus Tucker, Madyson Edwards, Anna Grace Tucker, Kynnedie Edwards

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John & Emily Esneault

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PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

FLASHBACK - September October 2009

Tracy & Alaina Norman

Todd & Lauren Stephenson

Sofia & Mark Roberts

David & McKenzie Edwards

Mark & Sara Clark

Andy & Rebecca Faulk

Tee & Staley Jackson

Ashlyn & Dr. Paul Fry

Anna, Tom, & Danielle Neupert

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Daddy Daughter Dance continued

Emily Esneault w/ Cinderella

Fall Harvest With autumn approaching, its time to sit back and enjoy the fruits (and vegetables) of the harvest. From apple to pumpkin to sweet potatoes the harvest tastes especially sweet!

Mashed Sweet Potatoes Tom Brown’s Restaurant

Paired with a hand-cut steak and an apple martini, it's Tom Brown's version of fall comfort food – house-made with brown sugar and butter, topped with toasted marshmallows

Photo by Steve Babin

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Sweet Potato Casserole & Apple Cobbler Moe’s Original BBQ

Photo by Steve Babin

Homemade sweet potato casserole – an autumn masterpiece of fluffy and soft, mashed sweet potatoes, with a pumpkin-pie like treatment. Served with a crunchy house-made corn flake and pecan topping

Mouth-watering, made-from-scratch, apple cobbler complete with Granny Smith apples, a fresh baked and crispy batter-like topping, and a little pumpkin spice for that fall feeling

Apple Pie Gibson’s Bar-B-Q

Baked fresh daily, Gibson’s house-made apple pie is the perfect ending to every meal

Photo by Steve Babin

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FLASHBACK - September October 2013

The Caves Are Alive with the Sound of Music!

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Written by Amanda Allen Photos by Steve Babin

It was a perfect summer night for a concert as over 500 attendees gathered at Three Caves on June 15th for an evening with Cindy Bradley, a jazz trumpet player from New York City. This series of concerts is put on by the Land Trust of North Alabama, and is one of their primary annual fundraisers.

Three Caves, an unexpectedly perfect concert venue, is a former limestone quarry, which was only in operation between 1945 and 1952. After briefly serving as a fallout shelter, it became the location for several rock videos (most notably for the band Kansas) and also some movies. It has now been deemed a protected landmark by the Land Trust.

The Land Trust was incorporated in 1987 as Alabama’s first official land trust, and is accredited by the Land Trust Accreditation Commission. Their mission is to preserve and protect various landmarks throughout north Alabama.

Nicole Jones, Ken Smith

Don Ferree, Shirley Jackson

Cindy Bradley entertained the crowd throughout the evening with lively jazz music, most of which she composed herself. At the intermission, concert sponsor 4Site, Inc. recognized area dignitaries and friends for all their hard work throughout the year.

As the last was played, a young couple became engaged, putting a perfect finishing touch on the evening.

“The primary goal of the concert is to serve as a ‘friend-raiser’ for the Land Trust,” said Executive Director Cynthia Potts. “The concerts are the perfect opportunity to combine the beauty and unique nature of the Three Caves setting, the amazing talent of the professional jazz artists, and an evening outdoors.” n

Leigh & Tish Pegues, Jim & Mary Bryant, Malinda & Ted Schmidt

Cynthia Potts, Marita Durham, Mayor Troy & Dana Trulock, Marita Bostick

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Becky & Les Tillery

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

Tony Manary, Lori Severin, Andy Gillespie

www.eventhuntsville.com

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Huntsville Happenings

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

The support shown to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center’s campaign to Save Space Camp by individuals and corporations alike quickly raised the $1.5M needed to keep the facility open.

My thanks goes out to all who contributed. Want to know additional ways that you can help the local hospitality industry? Buy memberships to local attractions, dine-in or carry-out from area restaurants, and support events and activities as often as you can. I encourage you to see the new exhibits at the attractions, try one of the newest local restaurants and enjoy the many creative socially distant events offered. Your support will make a difference!

Our team is working with conference, convention, and meeting planners to reschedule existing business and book new business. Promotional efforts are focusing on visitors who can easily drive here, and we are spreading the word that Huntsville is ready for them based on the diligent efforts of our partners who are adhering all safety and sanitization protocol. I am optimistic about our future and look forward to welcoming back groups and visitors along with folks who have yet to experience the southern hospitality we extend to all of our guests.

Stay safe, follow the guidelines, and support our local attractions, restaurants, hotels, retail and small businesses.

The events and activities listed below are scheduled for September and October. Please use this list as a starting point and then visit huntsville.org for updates.

Ongoing events: Apollo: When We Went to the Moon, U.S. Space & Rocket Center Toyota Field ballpark tours, Town Madison Madison County Marker Challenge, countywide Rocket City Civil Rights Driving Tour The Purdy Butterfly House (through September 30), Huntsville Botanical Garden The Red Clay Survey: 2020 Exhibition of Contemporary Southern Art, (through October 4); Hard Earned: The Military Photographs of Stacy Pearsall and the Veteran’s Portrait Project (through September 27); Spotlight on the Collection: Buccellati, Huntsville Museum of Art The Whimsical Woods Flip Flopped (through October 11); Keeping Time Through the Centuries (through October 11), Burritt on the Mountain Toys: The Inside Story, EarlyWorks Children’s Museum

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Recurring events: Burritt on the Mountain’s City Lights & Stars concert series – September 11 and 24 The Golden Hour, Huntsville Botanical Garden – Wednesdays from 5:00 – 8:00 pm

Cocktails at the View, Burritt on the Mountain – Wednesdays (until October 28) $5 After 5, Huntsville Museum of Art – Thursdays Greene Street Market at Nativity – Thursdays (until October 29) Rocket City Rover Mixer Rides, downtown Huntsville – weekly on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays Friday Night Art Walk, downtown Huntsville – monthly on the 4th Friday Bikes & Brews, downtown Huntsville – monthly on the first Friday Mars Music Hall Local Lineup Series, Von Braun Center – weekly on Fridays and Saturdays Drive-In on the Dock, Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment – weekly on Saturdays Concerts in the Car, Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment – Fridays through October 2 Downtown Walking Tours presented by Scenethat Walking Tours – weekly on Saturdays and Sundays The Market at MidCity – Sundays Backyard Jams Free Sunday Concert Series, A.M. Booth’s Lumberyard - Sundays Burritt Folk School Workshops, Burritt on the Mountain – daytime and evening classes available Friday evening shows at Intuitive Planetarium – U.S. Space & Rocket Center Independent Musical Productions, Drive-In Cabaret Series – Sundays through October 15 One-time events: Monte Sano Art Festival, Monte Sano State Park – September 12-13 Houndmouth, Mars Music Hall, Von Braun Center – September 16 Symphony Classical Series: Romantic Revolution, Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, Von Braun Center – September 18 Socially Distant Food Truck All Stars, downtown Huntsville – September 18 Rocket City Microthon (virtual) – September 20 Black Jacket Symphony Presents Pink Floyd’s The Wall, Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, Von Braun Center – September 26 Con Kasterborous, Holiday Inn Research Park – October 10-11 Three Dog Night, Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, Von Braun Center – October 15 Toad the Wet Sprocket, Mars Music Hall, Von Braun Center – October 25 Victor Wooten & The Wooten Brothers, Mars Music Hall, Von Braun Center – October 27 Symphony Pops Series: Psycho in Concert, Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, Von Braun Center – October 30 n

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