Hartselle Living Dec. 2014

Santa in Somerville Somerville is home to Santa and his high-tech sleigh

Inside this edition: Local man is an awardwinning Elvis Vietnam veterans find an unexpected friendship Pig Stand celebrates almost 30 years

Vol. 4, Issue 12

Hartselle Living • 1

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2 • Hartselle Living

Hartselle Living • 3

4 • Hartselle Living

table of contents

DECEMBER 2014

FEATURE

ON THE COVER

18. Santa in Somerville

Santa Claus hopes everyone is making the most of the Christmas season and enjoying memorable moments with the family. | Joy Haynes

Somerville’s own Santa Claus has been appearing in the Hartselle Parade with his hand-crafted sleigh for six years.

STAFF President and Publisher Randy Garrison Editor Brent Maze Contributors Clif Knight Joy Haynes Advertising Pam Gray Office Staff Ann Kirby April Thompson Katie Sparkman

CONTACT US Hartselle Newspapers, LLC 407 Chestnut St. NW P.O. Box 929 Hartselle, AL 35640 256-773-6566 Fax: 256-773-1953 info@hartselleliving.com Hartselle Living is published monthly by Hartselle Newspapers, LLC. A one-year subscription to the Hartselle Enquirer and Hartselle Living is $39 in county or $78 out of county.

Single copies are available at select locations throughout the Hartselle area.

To advertise or to get more FREE copies, call 773-6566. www.hartselleliving.com Copyright 2014 by Hartselle Newspapers, LLC

Departments 14

10

12 GET TO KNOW: Bobby Hollis is an award-winning Elvis.

WELLNESS: Learn how to deal with grief during the holidays.

20 FAITH AND FAMILY: Family-run Pig Stand in Hartselle receives recognition in new book.

FEATURE: Locals find out their veteran pasts intertwine.

24 HISTORY: Locals remember the B-24D Bomber crash on Cooper Mountain from Feb. 23, 1945.

IN EACH ISSUE: Letters • 6 Calendar • 8 Scene • 24 Classifieds • 29 Last Word • 30

Hartselle Living • 5

LETTERS

“I

Love came down

en, the shepherds said to n those days one another, ‘Let’s go to Caesar AugusBethlehem and see this tus issued a dething that has happened, cree that a cenwhich the Lord has told sus should be taken of us about.’ the entire Roman world.

“So they hurried off (This was the first cenand found Mary and sus that took place while Joseph, and the baby, Quirinius was governor who was lying in the of Syria). And everyone manger. When they had went to their own town seen him, they spread to register. So Joseph the word concerning also went up from the what had been told them town of Nazareth in Galabout this child, and ilee to Judea, to Bethleall who heard it were hem the town of David, amazed at what the because he belonged to shepherds said to them. the house and line of But Mary treasured up David. He went there all these things and ponto register with Mary, dered them in her heart. who was pledged to be The shepherds returned, married to him and was glorifying and praising expecting a child. While God for all the things they were there, the time they had heard and seen, came for the baby to which were just as they be born, and she gave had been told.” (Luke birth to her firstborn, a 2:1-20 NIV) son. She wrapped him The wonderful words in cloths and placed him above, which we have in a manger, because heard spoken and read there was no guest room ourselves, even as small available for them.

Randy Garrison • Letter from the Publisher children, still are able “And there were to move the hearts of shepherds living out in men. As youngsters we sang “Away in a Manger” as we wore the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An our bathrobes and played the part of shepherds in the Christmas angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to play. The thoughts of Baby Jesus lying in the hay filled our hearts with love. Even as we grow older that same heart still them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior seeks the love that came to earth that night over 2,000 years ago.

From that silent night, so long ago in Bethlehem, when the has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in angels proclaimed His birth, until we made the decision as believers to accept His offer of grace, paid for by his death on the a manger. “Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host apcross, our lives will never be the same. May the Christ of Christpeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his mas fill your heart with peace, hope and love, as we celebrate favor rests.” When the angels had left them and gone into heav- His birth, and not just a holiday. Merry Christmas and God bless.

6 • Hartselle Living

Most wonderful time of year the season would have the same impact.

If you look at the first Christmas in Bethlehem, Mary and Joseph had trouble finding a place to stay. It would be like trying to find a hotel room in New Orleans Brent Maze • Letter from the Editor when Alabama or Auburn bustle of Caesar’s census that Savior happens to be playing in the Sugar was born. Even if things aren’t going, Bowl. You’re not going to find a room just take time to enjoy this wonderful anywhere. season.

But it was through that hustle and

We want to hear from you!

Tell us what you like. Suggest improvements.

Submit story ideas and your photos.

Email: editor@hartselleliving.com

HOW TO REACH US

I

t seems like I hear that Andy Williams classic being played more and more often with each Christmas season. “With the kids jingle-belling And everyone telling you be of good cheer...”

The only thing that doesn’t apply to us here in Alabama is the fact that we don’t have any caroling out in the snow. Granted, with the way our winter weather has been lately, a white Christmas might not be out of the question. In fact, we did officially get one four years ago.

But Christmas is a great time of year. It seems like everyone is just in a better mood this time of the year.

The hustle and bustle of the season just adds to the excitement that is Christmas. If you didn’t have to fight crowds and traffic, I’m not sure that

Mail: Hartselle Living c/o Hartselle Enquirer PO Box 929 Hartselle, AL 35640 In person: Hartselle Living c/o Hartselle Enquirer 407 Chestnut St. NW Hartselle, AL 35640 Where in the World is Hartselle Living?:

Travel with Hartselle Living!

Snap a photo of yourself anywhere in the world holding a copy of Hartselle Living and submit by email, by mail or in person. Don’t forget to let us know where in the world you were!

Hartselle Living • 7

CALENDAR Dec. 20

Chappell Basket Brigade The tenth annual Chappell Karate Basket Brigade will be Sat., Dec. 20 at 11 a.m. at the OWO Rec. Center at 906 Roberts Drive in Hartselle. If anyone would like to make a tax-deductible donation, donations are still being accepted. Also, anyone who would like to volunteer to package the food into boxes and/or help deliver them, please contact Amanda Bussey at 256-612-4438.

Christmas Musical Blue Springs Baptist Church, located at 385 Blue Springs Road in Somerville, will have a Christmas musical Sat., Dec 20 at 6 p.m. Refreshments will be served following the musical.

Also, the musical will be presented on Sun., Dec. 21, at 6 p.m. Everyone is welcome.

Dec. 21

Candy Cane Hunt Hartselle Parks and Recreation is hosting a Candy Cane Hunt Dec. 21 at 2 p.m. at Pavillion 4 at Sparkman Park.

Bring a basket and a sack of candy canes. Children will hunt by age groups (ages 3 and under, 4-5, 6 and older).

Prizes will be given to those who find the specially marked candy canes. Hot chocolate and cookies will be served.

The event is free, but participants are asked to register by Dec. 18.

Dec. 22-Jan. 5

Christmas Break Hartselle City and Morgan County schools will close for the Christmas holidays.

Dec. 25

Christmas Meals Hartselle Church of Christ will be preparing and delivering around 700 meals for families and individuals around Hartselle. They will deliver for Meals on Wheels around lunch on Christmas Day. 8 • Hartselle Living

Brianna Veal and Brother Phillip Hines prepare meals for delivery during Hartselle Church of Christ’s annual Christmas food delivery last Christmas.

Jan. 2

New Year’s Party Fifth and sixth graders are invited to join a New Year’s Party at Sparkman Civic Center Jan. 2 from 7-9 p.m.

There will be music, dancing, party favors and snacks to celebrate the new year. Please register and pay the $10 fee per child at Sparkman Civic Center no later than Dec. 30.

Jan. 9

Women’s Connection Luncheon Start the New Year off right by joining the Women’s Connection Luncheon Fri., Jan. 9, 2015, at 11 a.m. at the Decatur Country Club located at 2401 Country Club Road. Humorous speaker, Carol Frey, will share tips for those

in cooking ruts and relationship ruts in “A Perfect Welcome Into a Not so Perfect Home!” Bring your favorite hostess tip and your humorous disasters to share around the table. Cost is $15 with no dues or membership required. For reservations and complimentary nursery, contact Clarice at 256-301-9196, 256-341-7129 or email cekkess@charter.net or Stephanie at 256-686-2876 or email stephanieroybal06@yahoo.com.

Reservations must be received by Jan. 5.

Jan. 30

PES Board Appreciation Breakfast Priceville Elementary School will have its Board Member Appreciation breakfast Jan. 30 from 7:45 to 8:30 a.m.

WHERE IN THE WORLD IS HARTSELLE LIVING?

The Senior Adult Excursion of First Baptist Church Hartselle enjoyed a visit Nov. 9-14 to the Billy Graham Training Center at the Cove in Asheville, North Carolina with their issues of the Hartselle Living magazine.

®

Hartselle Living • 9

GET TO KNOW

Bobby Hollis

F.E. Burleson Elementary School’s custodian is an awardwinning Elvis tribute artist STORY AND PHOTO BY CLIF KNIGHT ADDITIONAL PHOTOS PROVIDED BY BOBBY HOLLIS

10 • Hartselle Living

When Bobby Hollis is away from his day job at F.E. Burleson Elementary, he can be found as an Elvis tribute artist.

B

obby Joe Hollis is more than just a custodian at F.E. Burleson Elementary School in Hartselle. The 55-year-old originally from Pell City is a respected Elvis Presley tribute artist.

Hollis lives in Cullman County with his wife, Monie.

They have two children and three granddaughters. He has also worked as a carpenter and in the restaurant business.

Hollis became a tribute artist six years ago and will perform as often as he has bookings. In addition to keeping the memory of Elvis alive, Hollis also enjoys college football.

Hartselle Living: What led you to become an Elvis tribute artist?

Bobby Hollis: I became an Elvis fan when I was five years old and I always wanted to play and sing like him.

HL: What s the largest audience you’ve performed for?

BH: 900 people.

HL: What sets you apart from other Elvis tribute artists?

BH: It’s all about keeping his memory alive.

HL: What is your favorite part of your performance?

BH: Singing his ballads and gospel songs.

HL: How did you train to become an Elvis tribute artist?

BH: I practice two hours every night and sing a little every day.

HL: What audience do you perform for the most?

BH: The young, middle-aged and seniors. It’s amazing to see fans of all ages in the audience. I get a lot of “Hi, Elvis” greeting from students.

HL: Where did you purchase your Elvis outfits?

BH: My wife and her sister made the first one. The latest one was tailor-made by a Canadian company.

HL: What famous entertainment stars have you met as an Elvis tribute artist?

BH: D.J. Fontana, the original Elvis drummer, his son, David, and I are friends; also the Jordanaires.

HL: What is the highest honor you’ve received as an Elvis impersonator?

BH: People’s Choice Award at a competition in Augusta, Ga., in 2012 HL: Is there another award you’d like to receive?

BH: The Elvis Replica Award, which is presented following a competition in Tupelo, Miss., in late May or early June each year.

Hartselle Living • 11

WELLNESS

Help with holiday blues How to handle grief during the holidays

T

he holidays are meant to be a joyous time.

But for someone dealing with grief, celebrations can be extremely difficult. If you are grieving over a recent loss, or one that happened years ago, experts say there are things you can do to make facing the demands and the expectations of the holidays a little easier.

“There are no rules on how to deal with grief during the holidays,” says South University, West Palm Beach Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program Director, Dr. Denny Cecil-Van Den Heuvel. “You get to decide what is best for you.”

Cecil-Van Den Heuvel speaks from both personal and professional experience. In addition to her uni-

12 • Hartselle Living

versity duties, she is also in private practice where she helps patients deal with loss and life’s struggles.

She also experienced a great loss of her own. Twenty-six years ago, her husband was killed in a plane crash, leaving her to raise their 5-year-old son alone.

She was just 31.

“It’s not easy being a widow or having a family member die, because people watch you and make judgments about you and about how you are coping with loss,” says Dr. Cecil-Van Den Heuvel. “You’re not supposed to get over it. You don’t get over loss.

You integrate the loss into your life so you become stronger and wiser. You understand the value of life GRIEF continued on page 13

GRIEF, from 12 more from your losses.”

Cecil-Van Den Heuvel has advice on how to handle your grief during the holidays.

Honor your loved one

Finding a way to honor your loved one during the holiday celebration can be especially important, and meaningful, if the loss is recent.

“Honor the one who is not there, and embrace what no one got to experience about that person but you. That may entail going to the gravesite, or to where the ashes are spread,” Cecil-Van Den Heuvel says. “You can even do a ritual of saying one thing about that person that they would have brought to the holiday if they had been there.”

It’s OK to be sad

Pretending to be happy and cheerful, especially after a recent loss, can be a tremendous strain.

“If you choose to be melancholy and sad, that’s OK - you need to mourn. A lot people walk a wide circle around it, but everyone deals with grief and loss differently,” Cecil-Van Den Heuvel says. “You don’t have to do the ‘chin up - everyone has to be happy’ routine.”

She also recommends journaling if you are thinking a lot about your loss as a way to explore and express your feelings.

It’s OK to be happy

Don’t be afraid to take part in fun holiday activities, and don’t feel guilty if you do find yourself having a good time during the celebrations.

“Enjoy the presence of those around you,” encourages Cecil-Van Den Heuvel.

Don’t set yourself up

Cecil-Van Den Heuvel believes it is easy for those who are grieving to set themselves up to have a bad holiday.

“People anticipate what they’re going to feel and set themselves up to some degree to have a horrible time,” she explains.

“Do not set the stage for what the day is

going to be like. Just allow it to be what it is.”

She speaks of her own experience dealing with the loss of her husband.

“There were many times that I thought ‘This is going to be the hardest year’ because it was the fifth anniversary of his death, or some other milestone. And, many times it turned out not to the hardest year despite those milestones - but it could have been a hard year if I’d pushed it. Don’t choose to go in the black hole and stay there.”

Be authentic to yourself

Being authentic to yourself is the most important aspect of grieving during the holidays, or anytime.

“Allow yourself to feel the pain so you can integrate it into your life and learn and grow from it,” she says. “Nobody wants to suffer, but suffering has its purpose, and that purpose is growth. There is always going to be life and death, and we need to grow from grief rather than being victim to it.”

Hartselle Living • 13

Robert Dotson

Cleo Stubbs

Vietnam vets Hartselle veterans discover Army ties and become good friends

H

STORY BY CLIF KNIGHT

artselle Army veterans Robert Dotson and Cleo Stubbs fought in the Vietnam War at the same time not knowing that they would meet accidentally 46 years later, share their wartime experiences and become good friends.

The annual Hartselle Veterans Parade, which was began in 2011, helped pave the way for their friendship.

14 • Hartselle Living

“We were standing around talking in Lee (Y.) Greene’s office when he said, ‘Let’s start a Veterans Day parade, and you and Cleo head it up,’” Dotson recalled. “Cleo agreed to help on condition that it be done strictly for veterans, without any commercialism.”

“That’s when we learned both of us served under VETS continued on page 15

VETS, from 14 the same command in Vietnam in 19681969. We even fought in some of the same battles but never had the opportunity to meet,” Stubbs said. “He and I have developed a friendly relationship since that time.”

A Georgia native, Stubbs entered the Army fresh out of college. In Vietnam, he was assigned to the 9th Artillery Division as an SP-5 forward observer Dotson, who was born and raised in Eva, entered the Army as a high school dropout. He served with the 1st Calvary Division in Vietnam with the rank of SP-4. He chose to remain in the military, earned a degree in business administration and retired in 1992 as a chief warrant officer with 26 years and five days of active duty service.

After his retirement, Dotson worked in special operations at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and later ended his civil service career at Redstone Arsenal as director of LAP Programs, supervis-

ing over 1,500 employees.

Stubbs holds a Bachelor of Science degree in agronomy and has served in positions of responsibility with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Champion International. Currently, he is self-employed as a professional soil scientist.

Both have distinguished themselves as community leaders.

Stubbs helped organize the Hartselle– Morgan County Community Task Force (formerly known as SPUDS).

The organization sponsors a fourweek summer remediation program that helps students catch up on subjects they are deficient in and prepare themselves for the challenges of the next school

Robert Dotson shown with his Army locker.

year. It also provides an on-going tutoring program for students with emphasis on math and science.

The tutoring program now has classroom space in a renovated building on the Hartselle Junior High School campus In addition to serving as co-chair of the Hartselle Veterans Parade Committee, Dotson is president of the Morgan County Cattlemen’s Association and past president of Hartselle Rotary Club.

Hartselle Living • 15

SantaGregg Turk enjoys ice skating during a Santa outing.

Santa’s already in town 16 • Hartselle Living

Santa Claus stresses the importance of family time and Christmas memories

W

STORY BY JOY HAYNES

hat is Christmas without cheerful holiday memories with family and friends?

A holiday season that doesn’t include memorable moments misses the point of the season, according to SantaGregg.

“The weeks after Thanksgiving are so rushed with shopping, decorating and other holiday events,” SantaGregg said.

“All of those things are great, but they can take away from building memories as a family unit. We should all think of the Christmas season as a wonderful opportunity for building those memories, which will make the family whole.

Simple moments can be memorable if they are spent with the entire family.”

SantaGregg Turk is a Master Santa graduate from The International University of Santa Claus and a member of The Fraternal Order of Real Bearded Santas. His home and workshop are in Somerville, where he keeps his custom-built sleigh that is prominently featured in the Hartselle, Decatur, Cullman and Madison parades each year.

Since retiring from woodworking and owning his own business for 35 years, SantaGregg has been spreading Christmas cheer and making holiday memories with families, businesses and towns all over the South as a professional Santa. He has been putting his engaging personality, love of children and families and passion for the Christmas spirit to good use for the past seven years.

The countless hours of traveling, preparing, posing for photos and booking appointments are worth the joy he is able to bring during visits.

“All sacrifices become worthwhile in the end,” SantaGregg said. “It’s a great way to spend my retirement years, making people happy and spreading Christmas spirit. Hopefully these visits and conversations will be something the entire family will be able to remember fondly.”

SantaGregg has put tremendous thought and preparation into his Santa persona.

“My wife says I’m a bit of a fanatic, but I know you can’t play Santa- you have to be Santa,” SantaGregg said. “In training they teach us about the history of Santa Claus and how to react in specific situations, but it’s something you can’t learn. You have to be passionate about it to make the visits come alive and really make an impression on people.

It lights up my heart to connect with everyone. I don’t want to miss a single child; I want to acknowledge everyone in the room with some sort of contact.”

SantaGregg’s fascination with vintage Santas inspired his custom-made Santa suit. He drew inspiration from Thomas

Building Santa’s New Sleigh Each year on Dec. 26th, Santa, Mrs. Claus and the elves begin preparing for the next Christmas.

The toy shop elves draw plans for new toys, the postal elves catalog Christmas lists and the stable elves keep the reindeer healthy and strong.

Elf Ramon’s job was to make necessary repairs to Santa’s sleigh. He started trying to fix the bent landing gear and tighten the loose flight column, but the old sleigh did not want to cooperate. Santa had been using the same sleigh for the past 500 years, and the centuries of Christmas deliveries had left the sleigh battered and broken.

Ramon was deeply troubled that he would not be able to fix Santa’s sleigh and children all over the world would not be able to enjoy another Christmas. Santa noticed Ramon’s worried look and asked him what was the matter.

Elf Ramon explained the problems with the broken sleigh and wondered what Santa would say. Mrs. Claus overheard the problem and knew what needed to be done and Santa and his elves would build a brand new sleigh!

Suggestions for the new sleigh immediately came pouring into the North Pole. Several elves suggested the sleigh have a cookie machine or hot cocoa maker. Santa liked the idea of a foot warmer.

The elves immediately went to work planning how the sleigh should be built. They knew Santa would need the best technology to communicate with the North Pole and find his way around the world.

The workshop elves started by cutting a special magical poplar tree into boards. Next, they built runners and a frame. The elves took shifts, so they could work all day long on the sleigh. They knew it had to be ready in time for Santa to have test flights before Christmas.

After sawing boards, clamping them tight and gluing them together, the elves designed a special control panel just for Santa. His new sleigh now had a time delay device, vertical lift system and a wormhole transport program.

The elves finished the sleigh in time for Santa to take a test flight, which passed his inspection.

Now Santa’s sleigh was ready to make his toy deliveries to all those on his nice list.

For the full story, go to santavisitsalabama.com.

SANTA continued on page 18 Hartselle Living • 17

their parents happier and their overall Christmas season more cheerful. Sometimes children will tell their darkest Nast’s artwork when developing his oversized open-front- secrets to Santa that they won’t even talk to their parents ed coat, button-down vest, vintage-style shirts, red pants about. I let them ask questions and try to answer them as and brown belt and boots. truthfully as possible without ruining the magic of the mo“I worked with a lady in Decatur on making a special ment.” suit from my favorite vintage Santa depictions,” SantaA visit with SantaGregg is sure to be memorable, but Gregg said. “I try to be as authentic as possible. If it can he also hopes families are spending quality time together be ordered online, I won’t wear it.” during the holiday season.

To add to his authenticity, SantaGregg put 1,600 hours “Families can make a sort of memory-making advent into hand-crafting a one-of-a-kind sleigh that is approxicalendar leading up to Christmas to make sure they get mately 14 feet long and almost seven feet tall. His sleigh the most out of this time,” SantaGregg said. “It takes love, is complete with the latest technologies, including a GPS a little forethought and the warmth of the family unit to system, vertical lift capabilities, distance communication make a memory- not a dollar. Families can drive around systems and a vortex wormhole connection. looking a Christmas lights together or even sleep under “I worked eight to 12 hour days, seven days a week for the Christmas tree with the family pet. Those memories four months to complete the sleigh, but now I’m a big kid will be with them forever.” with a big toy that no one else has,” SantaGregg said. “It SantaGregg said he enjoys his visits as much as the chilcame about after the 2009 Christmas season, when I sat dren enjoy seeing him. to think about what would enhance my overall experience “I enjoy taking the adults back to their childhoods and with people. I always want to improve and be able to con- all those Christmas memories,” SantaGregg said. “I love nect with people better.” watching the kids light up when they see me, and it thrills SantaGregg says part of the connection he makes with me to see the little ones who will finally peek out from the children he visits is the care and goodwill he strives to behind their parents to say goodbye to me. This is as much show towards them. my love to do and to give as it is for those who receive.”

“Santa is not just a figurehead to children- he has reFor more information on SantaGregg or to book an exsponsibility and influence,” SantaGregg said. “I encourage perience, visit his websites at santavisitsalabama.com or them to read and to help out around the house to make santavisitstheworld.com.

SANTA, from 17

Santa’s hand-crafted sleigh is 14 feet long and seven feet wide.

18 • Hartselle Living

2015 Morgan County Plat Book Get the map. Know the land.

Don’t wait. Get your copy today!

Pick one up at a local reseller or visit Rockfordmap.com Also available from Rockfordmap.com are Wall Maps, smartphone/tablet maps, GIS-compatible maps, and more.

Want to know where to buy locally?

Visit Rockfordmap.com or call (800) 321-1627 for more information.

Hartselle Living • 19

From left, Mandi George, the late O.B. Owens and Nikki Echols stand in front of their beloved Pig Stand BBQ.

FAITH AND FAMILY

Family business Alabama Barbecue will feature Pig Stand, a Hartselle landmark for almost 30 years 20 • Hartselle Living

STORY COMPILED BY MANDI GEORGE AND JOY HAYNES

H

artselle’s very own Pig Stand BBQ will be featured in a new book Alabama Barbecue.

More than 75 barbecue restaurants in 52 cities across the state are featured in the colorful 128-page hardcover book that was produced by the Alabama Media Group in cooperation with the Alabama Tourism Department. The book covers the state by geographic region, starting in North Alabama and ending with the Gulf Coast.

Author Annette Thompson and photographer Art Meripol traveled Alabama visiting all of the featured restaurants and exploring the unique barbecue culture of the state.

Earl and Ruby Hampton of Hartselle established Pig Stand BBQ in 1988.

Earl and Ruby had three children, Gary (Pat), Perry (Sherry), and Patty (Ben). Among all of their children, they accumulated eight grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.

Pig Stand’s original starting grounds were in Priceville. It was a freestanding building out in the middle of a shopping center parking lot. The family is not sure of the exact date that the business moved to Hartselle, but it was not long after the business was established that the building they are in now became available. The business has been going strong for almost 30 years.

Over the years, they have endured a lot of happiness, tears and struggles, but they have done it all as a family that pulls together. Nikki Echols, granddaughter of Earl and Ruby Hampton, has been there from the time they opened. She would get off the bus and work until close. She has always put her whole heart into this business, according to her sister Mandi George.

The Pig Stand family really doesn’t consist of only blood related members. They have so many people that have worked for them, and they have made relationships with so many that will last a lifetime. Everyone that has ever worked for them has become part of the Pig Stand Family.

Mr. Hampton always made it a point to let everyone know that if ever a grandchild needed a job, they had one. Needless to say, all but maybe two of the grandchildren worked for Pig Stand at some point in their lifetime and most of the great-grandchildren, too.

Once Earl and Ruby, and later Gary, passed, Perry took over. He was a retired Army veteran and was full fledge military. A time came two years ago when Perry decided to retire completely and was ready to let go of Pig Stand. Mandi and Nikki could not stand the thought of someone else running their family business.

This is where Coach O.B. Owens came into the picture.

Coach Owens came down one day, and Mandi was working. She started telling him about what was going on with Perry wanting to retire and how it would be sad seeing someone other than a family member running the business that had been a part of them for so long.

He looked puzzled for a minute and then asked, “Do y’all want this place?”

Mandi said of course said they would love to keep it in the family. “Hey, ask him what he’ll take for it,” Coach Owens said.

Anyone that ever knew Coach Owens knows he was exactly like that. He was a giver and wanted to make sure everyone he cared about was taken care of. He wanted to take care of that for them and he did.

He didn’t work too much, but he would always have to come by and sample some pies once or twice a day. He trustPIG STAND continued on page 22

Alabama Barbecue will be available at Books-A-Million, alonlinestore.com, Amazon.com, select barbecue restaurants, the governor’s mansion gift shop, the Goat Hill Museum Store inside the Alabama State Capital. The retail price is $20.

Hartselle Living • 21

Pig Stand BBQ has been a family owned and operated business in Hartselle since it began almost 30 years ago. It is featured in Alabama Barbecue, a compilation of delicious barbecue restaurants from all over the state of Alabama.

PIG STAND, from 21 ed Nikki to take care of all the business part, and he never seemed to worry. He had made it a point that five years after the date of his purchase, Pig Stand would be Mandi and Nikki’s so they could keep it in the family.

Over the years, they have had so many things happen that all go back to Pig Stand. The memories that they share with people that have and still work there will be forever cherished. They have lost a few members to sickness and unexpected circumstances, but they hold on to the memories of being together at Pig Stand.

They have exciting memories of learning some of them were going to be parents and letting their little ones grow up around the business. All four of Mandi’s kids have grown up at Pig Stand and Haley, Nikki’s daughter, has too. Haley, Gracie and a niece Tiffany work there currently.

The family of Pig Stand workers and the reliable bonds they have formed have always been a part of Pig Stand since day one back in 1988. They have even had two employees get married and start their own family. Nikki met her husband Steve at Pig Stand.

The tricks that were played and the laughter that was heard will never be forgotten. Now they look forward to making new memories with new members of the Pig Stand family.

22 • Hartselle Living

They have a special relationship with their vendors as well. Some of them have been in business with them for over 20 years and have been welcomed into their life.

The employees at Pig Stand are hard working and loyal people, according to Mandi. They have made a lot of friends in their time there and hope to make many more in the future. They are counted on sometimes more than they should be, but the Pig Stand family would like for them to know that they are very much appreciated. The business is their livelihood as much as the owners’.

Once employees find another job, what they often jokingly call a real job, they always come back to visit. Mandi said she thinks that deep down they miss it and all of them that are left, too.

Mandi couldn’t be prouder of their customers at Pig Stand.

“As far as customer’s go, we have the best,” Mandi said. “We have some that have been coming in for more than 15-20 years. It’s great that we know what they will order before they tell us. A lot of them we may not know their name, but we do know what they like to eat. It’s great to see the same customers keep coming back after all these years.”

Pig Stand is a real life hometown family business, and they have found that people don’t always have to be blood related to work and feel like part of the family in a family business.

HISTORY

Cooper Mountain Crash Several locals witnessed a B-24D Bomber crash in Morgan County in 1945

M

STORY BY CLIF KNIGHT

organ County residents came face-to-face with a tragic wartime accident on a quiet, peaceful day Feb. 23, 1945, when a B-24D bomber spun out of control and crashed nose first on Cooper Mountain, killing all five members of its crew.

The plane, on a training mission from Courtland Army Air Field, captured the attention of several local residents as its crew performed stall and recovery maneuvers 5,000 to 6,000 feet in the air, approximately nine miles east of Hartselle and the same distance south of Somerville.

Jean Ann Wigginton Schuck witnessed the accident as a 7-year-old.

“I didn’t go to school that day because I was sick,” she recalled. “I was sitting in front of the open fireplace when I heard the plane. It was so close and so loud my feet were vibrating on the floor. Next, I remember neighbors running from every direction to climb the mountain to get to the crash site.”

A B-24D Bomber like the one pictured above crashed on Cooper Mountain about nine miles east of Hartselle on Feb., 23, 1945, killing all five crew members on board.

“Then, road graders and all kinds of heavy equipment arrived to make a road up the mountain,” she added. “I often climbed the mountain with friends to view the crash site and marker.”

The crash victims are identified in the official Army Air Forces accident report as 1st Lt. Anthony C. Tenalavage (pilot) of Pennsylvania, 2nd Lt. Robert H. Garvin of Maryland, 2nd Lt. Marion J. Seaney of Indiana, Pvt. 1st Class Jackson G. Stewart of North Carolina and Pvt. Gaston P. Whitsey of Washington.

The report indicated the plane departed from Courtland Army Air Field at 6:05 a.m. on an orientation flight. Hartselle police reported the crash by telephone at 7:45 a.m.

Harold L. St. John viewed the plane for several minutes as it flew over his Somerville Route Two farm.

“I first spotted it circling shortly after 6 a.m. and thought it was flying over another plane that was down. The engines sounded like they were operating normally. It left headed toward Huntsville and gained altitude to 5,000 to 6,000 feet. A few minutes later, it returned. Its engines were popping and sputtering. It was flying at about 2,500 feet when its engines stalled and it fell like an auger, swinging around two or three times. I lost sight of it when it went behind the mountain. I heard its engines roar before it hit the ground and then saw a black cloud of smoke rise above the trees.”

The wreckage indicated that the plane hit the ground in a vertical position since no trees on the heavily wooded mountainside had been sheared off, according to the accident report.

Families of the victims visited the crash site and erected a wooden marker that still stands. It bears the date of the crash, names of the deceased crew members and the words, “May They Not Have Died in Vain.”

Hartselle aviation historian Bob Jaques said he first became aware of the crash about five years ago after last year visited Maxwell AFB in Montgomery last year where he obtained a copy of the accident report.

“I had often tried to get to the site but did not know exactly where it was other than it being on Cooper Mountain,” Jaques stated. “A few weeks ago the property owner, who asked not to be identified, accompanied me to the site.”

Bob Jaques contributed to this article.

Hartselle Living • 23

OUT AND ABOUT 1

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Hartselle Intermediate School hosted their Liberty’s Legacy Super Citizen graduation. They ended their nine-week course by nominating local heroes as super citizens. 1) Blake Lorance, left, nominated his great-grandfather Tad Easterly as a Super Citizen. 2) Tanner Cay receives his certificate for completing the Super Citizen program during the graduation celebration. 3) A student says the Super Citizen pledge during the graduation ceremony. 4) Several students sing “You in the USA” during the graduation celebration. 5) Officer Hudson was nominated by Sarah Chandler, Whitley Mears and Jake Robb as a Super Citizen. He received a miniature replica of the Statue of Liberty with an authentic piece of the monument..

24 • Hartselle Living

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Les Amies hosted the Snowflake Ball for Hartselle High School’s IRC students Sat., Dec. 6 in the auxiliary gym. IRC students, Tiger Buddies, peer tutors and Les Amies members were invited. 1- Joe Speakman and Katy Beth Bole pose for a photo at the Snowflake Ball. 2- Breanna Knight, left, and Madelyn Chappell have a good time. 3- From left, Jordan Barbrey, Brittani Crumley and Allie Roden pose for a photo during the Snowflake Ball at HHS. 4- Several students form a conga line at the Snowflake Ball hosted by Les Amies. 5- From left, Carrie Hanners, Auston Howard, Cheyenne Stapleton, Riley Corum and Jordan Barbrey pose for a photo.. 6- Elyse Smith, left, and Brianna Dempsey enjoy the Snowflake Ball. 7- From left, Micayla Atkins, Nic James and James Horner pose for a photo.

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Hartselle Living • 25

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Basketball season is in full swing in Hartselle and throughout the county with basketball games most nights of the week. 1) Hartselle scorekeeper Sandra Meadows holds her grandson at halftime of a recent game. 2) Hartselle fans cheer on the Tigers at a recent game. 3) The 1971 Morgan County High School state championship basketball team was honored recently. 4) Danville’s Sydni Shelton receives a game ball for her 1,000th career point from head coach Paul Wilson Dec. 5. 5) Steven Cleek, Jaylan Jackson, and Ja’mal Jackson were honored for their 4x100 meter state championship at the Hartselle- Priceville game. Not pictured is D’Andre Mack.

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The Priceville and Somerville Christmas Parades were held Sat., Dec. 6 to celebrate the Christmas season. 1) Members of the Priceville High School ROTC program carry the banner to lead the Priceville Christmas Parade.

2) A parade participant helps her dog wave to the crowd at the Priceville Christmas Parade. 3) PHS drum major Austin Wilder conducts the PHS band. 4) Santa and Mrs. Claus wave to the crowd in the Somerville Square during the Somerville Christmas Parade. 5) A young boy walks with Somerville Methodist Church in the Somerville Christmas Parade.

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Hartselle Living • 27

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1) Aubury Magee and Aaliyah Fowler. 2) Dr. Vic Wilson takes over conducting for Randall Key. 3) Bailey Woodall receives a bouquet of flowers to give to HJHS band director Taylor Keeton. 4) Dawson Miller.

5) Key receives a picture from Cody Long. 6) Rebal and Willard Coffey (front) and Randy and Anita Ashley participate in a sing-along. 7) Ben Gray. 8) Linsey Owens, Grace Friar, Aiden Ward, Drew Keith and Evan Avery. 9) Alex Ford, Rachel McKelvy, Kristen Collins and Allie Maples perform. 10) Emma Kate Halverson reads about a piece. 11) Kylie Ratley. 12) Samantha Borglum.

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We are available for *Weddings *Receptions *Luncheons *Pre-Wedding Parties *Bridal Teas

Visit our website at hartsellefineartscenter.org or email us at hartsellefinearts@att.net

28 • Hartselle Living

Rent one room or the entire building

Call 256-773-4046

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Classifieds To place an ad in Hartselle Living, call 256.773-6566

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888-880-2277

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Hartselle, AL 35640

TIRED OF WORKING FOR SOMEONE

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Company Drivers and Owner Operators Home at least once a

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send your resume to

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Super clean

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Owner Fininancing Avail.

Caregivers & Nurses ALWAYS THERE

Kubota L3940 HST 4x4 w/ 871 hrs,

Hickory Heights Lots

Sale info 256-797-0196

FREE Recycling. We come to you.

IN-HOME CARE Immediate need,

41HP, QA Kubota Loader & Bucket:

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Lease info 256-508-6418

Computers, toner, software, printers,

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for more information 256-539-1400

New 5’ Titan Bush Hog

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Johnson Painting & Remodel

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Industrial Electricians for installing

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Smith Motors

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Blue River Gutters

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Tree Care Specialist since 1987

Two locations on

PT independent contractor needed

Call 256-773-4013

Hwy 31, Decatur

for commercial Loss Control services

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req’d. Email resume

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SURVEILLANCE CAMERA

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2 BR Apartments • On-site Laundry •

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Playground • Handicap Units • (256) CARRY TRANSIT Decatur, Alabama

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Credit Cards.

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8am-12pm

Excellent Benefits & Home Time * 18

MANUFACTURED HOMES MOBILE

Months OTR exp. * Class A CDL with

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Tanker Endorsement. Apply on Line@

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Helen K. Furniture

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800-554-5661 Ext 331

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tlxtransport.jobs

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Home Instead Senior Care

Must have experience in bumper to

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Hartselle Living • 29

THE LAST WORD

“Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before! What if Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store? What if Christmas... perhaps... means a little bit more!”

Dr. Seuss, How the Grinch Stole Christmas!

30 • Hartselle Living

Halo Sleepsac

babies

sleep safe

NEWBORN SWADDLE

Keeps baby perfectly swaddled and safe on its back.

Panda Warmer Provides the most advanced care while keeping little ones warm.

Spacious rooms with comfortable new beds Special menu for two Car seat education and safety check Free wellness center trial membership Professional photography session Labor and delivery suite renovations coming soon!

Board certified obstetricians 24-hour pediatrician coverage Caring, trained newborn center staff with approximately 600 years of experience delivering babies and providing nursing care Certified lactation consultant Prenatal classes including infant CPR We encourage you to schedule a tour and meet our staffÂ

256.341.3400

DECATUR GENERAL CAMPUS Hartselle Living • 31 www.decaturmorganhospital.net

32 • Hartselle Living