Madison Living Magazine - Feb. 2024

The Chan Sisters The Chan Sisters

A winning combination for the Bob Jones championship swim team

ALEXANDRA RAMSEY: Love is alive and well in the heart of this special artist

Huntsville Ballet Company to kick off new series Feb. 23-25

As the 60th season continues for Huntsville Ballet Company (HBC), a major production and a new intimate series is on the horizon.

Huntsville Ballet’s performances and community outreach programs are designed to appeal to a broad audience and bring the art of ballet to everyone from the ballet lover to those new to the experience.

DANCERS CHOICE

New to the 60th season, HBC will present “Dancers Choice” in February. This gives HBC members the opportunity to choreograph and perform in genres of their choice. Organizers say performing in a smaller, more intimate setting of the HBC studio has proven to create a truly interactive and educational experience allowing for conversation between the audience and the dancers and directors. It will be offered Feb. 23-25.

SWAN LAKE ACT II

To round out the season, the Huntsville Ballet Company takes the stage of the Mark C. Smith Concert Hall in April with the spellbinding second act of Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake.

One of the most iconic ballets of all time, Swan Lake entwines love, magic, and tragedy to tell the story of Prince Siegfried and Princess Odette, the swan maiden who has fallen under the enchantment of the evil Baron Von Rothbart. Only a vow of true love can break the spell. It will be performed April 19-21.

For more information, visit huntsvilleballet.org.

Mosaic of Love • Saturday, Feb. 10 • 4:30 p.m. • Huntsville Master Chorale • Stone Event Center - Campus 805

Enjoy a night of music with your significant other as the Huntsville Master Chorale presents Mosaic of Love, a unique concert featuring a musical adventure to New Orleans for MARDI GRAS! For more information visit: www.hsvmasterchorale.org

Huntsville Botanical Garden to host Wedding Expo

Whether you are starting your wedding planning journey, or you are tying up loose ends before the big day, Huntsville Botanical Garden (HBG) wants you to say “I do!” to attending the second annual Wedding Expo hosted at the Garden on Sunday, Feb. 25, from noon-4 p.m.

Attendees will be able to discover everything essential for planning a wedding, all in one place, up close and in person.

“We want to make wedding planning as easy as possible by offering a variety of vendors all in place at one time,” said Director of Marketing Laura McPhail. “The Expo will give guests an opportunity to chat with the area’s most talented wedding professionals as they taste delicious cakes, see beautiful flowers, find amazing decor, and discover solutions for all their planning needs.”

Guests are encouraged to try samples, ask questions directly to vendors, and leave with a bag full of wedding planning swag.

McPhail explained this kind of event can help take the burden off of the bride and groom for searching out reputable wedding professionals. It can also provide a fun bonding experience for those involved in planning a wedding.

“Planning a wedding can be pretty stressful,” said McPhail. “The Expo is a perfect way to vet potential vendors for your big day, and it can be a lot of fun crossing things off your ‘to-do’ list with your one special someone or your entire entourage.”

Advance tickets are $20 for HBG members and $25 for nonmembers and can be purchased at hsvbg.org/wedding-expo. The

price increases to $25 for HBG members and $35 for non-members who wait to purchase at the door. Ticket includes admission to the Garden and a free Expo tote bag.

Madison Methodist to host second annual Gifts of Grace Craft Fair

Madison Methodist Church will host their second annual Gifts of Grace craft fair on Saturday, Feb. 17.

The event, held 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., will feature 50 vendors offering handmade goods from jewelry, pottery, quilts, candles, soaps, woodcrafts, baked goods and much more. Some of the vendors include Colors Gone Wild, Edison Candle Company, The Plot Thickens and Wayne Higginbotham Wood Works.

Like last year, the church will open Charity Café so patrons can have soup and muffins before or after shopping at the fair. New this year is the prayer room.

The proceeds from the event will serve the Church’s children, youth and preschool ministries. The non-profits 305 8th Street, Lincoln Village and the Madison County Foster and Adoptive Parent Association.

“A representative from the Madison County Foster and Adoptive Parent Association spoke to our church at the beginning of the year. He spoke of the need for their organization to create a shoe closet so teenagers they serve can get shoes that are in style,” Moats said. “We felt that was a worthy cause.”

Huntsville Museum of Art to

host 33rd Annual Gala

The Huntsville Museum of Art will host the 33rd Annual Gala beginning Feb. 27 through March 2. Considered one of Huntsville’s premiere events, the Huntsville Museum of Art’s Annual Gala, presented by the Gala Committee, is a tangible force aiding the Museum in its effort to bring people and art together in our community. The Gala Committee has lent well over $4 million in support of the Museum throughout its 32year history.

The Annual Gala consists of three separate events which each offer unique cultural activities to attract a variety of patrons, both young and old. These three events are tied together by the month-long Gala Art Exhibition! This year’s featured artist is Geri Eubanks.

Leading up to the 33rd Annual Gala, the silent auction art, trips, parties and treasures will be on display in the galleries and available for immediate purchase. You can secure your favorite item before the Gala and take it home after the event to enjoy forever!

The Gala consists of the Gala Luncheon on Feb. 27, Black Tie Dinner & Live Auction on Feb. 29 and Cocktail Party & Silent Auction on March 2. For more information, go to www. hsvmuseum.org/events/gala.

Give Her Your Heart

U.S. Navy Concert Band to perform free concert Feb. 13

Touring the country since 1925, the United States Navy Concert Band has scheduled a free concert in Huntsville. The concert venue will be Huntsville High School Auditorium, 2304 Billie Watkins St., on Feb. 13 at 7 p.m.

Associated with the band’s 2024 national tour, the performance by the U.S. Navy’s premier band for North Alabama will be free and open to the public. This family-friendly event’s objective is to connect with veterans, families, individuals and those interested in joining the Navy.

The U.S. Navy Concert Band is the top-tier wind ensemble for this military branch. As the original ensemble of the Navy Band, the Concert Band has been performing public concerts and participating in high-profile events for 99 years. The band performs a wide array of marches, patriotic selections, orchestral transcriptions and modern wind compositions.

The full ensemble, along with small groups of varied instrumentation and voices, can entertain in several music genres. A trio of strings, primarily violins or ‘fiddles’ in this scenario, can deliver a toe-tapping country tune. The jazz ensemble plays upbeat standards from the 1940s to contemporary times. These musicians have mastered a vast repertoire.

For more information, visit www.navyband.navy.mil.

Elk & Caribou – Oh Deer! Science on the Spot • Saturday, Feb. 24 at 12:30 p.m. • Cook Museum • www.cookmuseum.org

Discover and learn all about elk, caribou, white-tailed deer, and more in this Science on the Spot! Find out how they are the same and how they are different by studying their tracks, looking at their antlers, and even examining their scat.

To Kill A Mockingbird A classic comes to life on stage

ABy Maria Rakoczy

Aaron Sorkin’s To Kill a Mockingbird on Broadway has been bringing the classic story and characters of Harper Lee to life on stage since it kicked off its national tour in March of 2022. The tour has performed over six hundred shows in more than forty cities in the last two years.

After a stop in Birmingham back in November, the play returns this month to the story’s home state with a weekend of shows in Auburn and then makes its way to Huntsville for another weekend of performances, thanks to Broadway Theatre League in Huntsville.

Those familiar with the book and movie can expect many of the same characters and the same, poignant themes, but

from the fresh perspective of a live play.

Justin Mark, the actor behind Jem Finch, describes it as “a deeply theatrical retelling”.

“The audience, I think feels like it’s happening in real time in front of them,” he says. “The three kids, my character included, we know as characters that we are in a theater, and we know that there is an audience, and we are bringing them along, bringing them into the play, instead of just having them watch.”

Mark’s character Jem is one of the narrating characters along with younger sister, Scout Finch. Together, they not only tell the story and participate in it but also bring the

audience into the story with direct interactions.

Those interactions help to create in the play a well-rounded experience that elicits a range of emotions from the audience. As Lee’s wit balances the weighty nature of the trial and the powerful themes on racism and youth in the book, so do instances of humor bring comedic relief to the drama in the play.

“There’s a lot of laughing in the play. There’s a lot of funny jokes in the play,” Mark says. “it’s an entertaining piece of literature and the play also really holds on to that. It’s ok to feel a range of emotions in this piece.”

Fans of the To Kill a Mockingbird movie may also appreciate a familiar face in that of Mary Badham, the actress who portrayed Scout Finch in the 1962 film, but this time as the Finch’s neighbor, Mrs. Dubose.

The play will bring this classic story to life in Huntsville with shows starting Friday, February 16 through Sunday, February 18 in the Mark C. Smith Concert Hall at the Von Braun Center. Visit broadwaythatrelague.org for show times and to purchase tickets.

Other upcoming shows include:

Jesus Christ Superstar

March 15-17

Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s classic anthems and ballads in “Jesus Christ Superstar” are celebrating their 50th anniversary this year. For BTL, a new version will

grace the stage.

The show depicts Jesus’ final weeks from Judas’ perspective. This version of “Jesus Christ Superstar” pays homage to “Billboard’s” 1971 “Album of the Year,” yet creates a modern feel.

Pretty Woman: The Musical May 10-12

Based on the cherished rom-com film, the musical shows that a prince can rescue the beautiful maiden. Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance developed the score, while the movie’s director, Garry Marshall, and J.F. Lawton authored the uplifting book.

In addition, a special show is planned to round out the season:

The Simon & Garfunkel Story

March 7

The immersive concert-style theater show chronicles the amazing journey shared by the folk-rock duo, Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel. It tells the story from their humble beginnings as Tom & Jerry to their incredible success as one of the best-selling music groups of the ’60s to their dramatic split in 1970. It culminates with the famous “The Concert in Central Park” reunion in 1981 with more than half a million fans in attendance.

For more, go to www.BroadwayTheatreLeague.org.

GGet ready for excitement and adventure on the stage as the 63rd season of Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theater & Academy (FPCTA) continues. Here is a look at what is in store.

All productions are presented at at the Von Braun Center Playhouse in Downtown Huntsville. For ticket information, visit www.FantasyPlayhouse.org.

Rapunzel and the Beanstalk

February 22-25

In February, Fantasy Playhouse travels back to Nysland Wood for the next fairytale installment by Stephen Tyler Davis, “Rapunzel and the Beanstalk”. Davis serves as the artistic director for FPCTA.

Rapunzel and Jack have always lived on the same cobblestone street but never knew it! Between them sits the run-down cottage of the worst witch in Nysland- Willy Nilly Walliwort. She trips over her broomstick and always leaves her hat behind. Her spells come out wrong and her potions are just plain pitiful.

When Willy Nilly tries to make new friends, she invites her neighbors over for her delicious magic beans! But if she fumbles the recipe, she might end up with a beanstalk she didn’t bargain for…and are those beautiful locks of vines growing from Rapunzel’s head? Climb on up for this

adventure to giant places about friendship, trying your best, second chances, and the power of positivity.

Space Monkeys! The Adventures of Baker & Able

May 9-12

Rounding out their season, FPCTA launches a new play about the two infamous primates of Alabama history that led the space race in 1959. “Space Monkeys! The Adventures of Baker & Able” will have its world premiere in partnership with the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in May 2024.

3…2…1…Blastoff! It’s 1959 in Huntsville, Alabama and the space race is on! Scientists around the world were depending on all sorts of creatures to discover the great beyond. But in America, two brave monkeys led the charge for space exploration- Baker and Able! Buckle up and hold on tight as these two courageous creatures take us on an adventure through their imagination, deciphering data and preparing their human astronauts for a discovery of galactic magnitude.

A story of friendship, sacrifice, and dreaming big, this world premiere play will inspire all ages through a special Alabama story set at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center.

For more information, visit www.FantasyPlayhouse.org.

Second annual Madison Volunteer Awards set for March 28 at Toyota Field

LLast year, Madison Visionary Partners recognized outstanding members of the community for their volunteer service with their first-ever Volunteer Awards. Four volunteers were given honors for their outstanding and exemplary contributions to the city.

James Clemens High School student Olivia Downs was awarded the Youth Volunteer Award for her nearly three hundred hours of work with local veterans’ organizations. Elizabeth Servidio was named Community Volunteer of the Year for her extensive work at the Madison Senior Center, and Redstone Federal Credit Union won Philanthropic Business of the Year for their support of Madison city projects including the Kids Kingdom and Home Place Park renovations. The highest honor of the Madison Visionary of the Year, however, was awarded to

Debbie Overcash in recognition and appreciation of her thirty years of service to the city of Madison with a wide range of roles and organizations.

“Madison Visionary Partners recognizes the role that volunteer service plays in building a stronger community. Volunteers are simply the glue that holds us together. It’s no surprise to anyone that lives here that the secret about Madison is officially out - more people than ever are moving into Madison to enjoy our award-winning schools, more affordable cost of living, and vibrant, active community,” said Melanie Thornton, Executive Director of MVP, on their decision to recognize those who serve our community.

“But all these things that make Madison a wonderful place to live didn’t happen by accident,” she continued.

Debbie Overcash (center in red) was awarded last year’s Madison Visionary of the Year.

“Volunteers have been the key to the city’s success for decades. Some of Madison’s greatest initiatives were volunteer led: our nationally ranked school system, Madison’s public library, the Hogan Family YMCA, the Madison Street Festival, and much, much more.”

MVP is now getting ready to recognize even more volunteers who made outstanding efforts in 2023. The organization accepted nominations for the second annual volunteer awards throughout the month of January for the awards of Youth Volunteer of the Year, Community Volunteer of the Year, Philanthropic Businessperson of the Year, and Madison Visionary of the Year. Those selected for each award will be honored at a special event in March.

“This is a community-building event that we hope will inspire more people to get involved on a local level in Madison. Whether that is through board service, volunteer work or philanthropy, we can be a stronger community with more community engagement,” said Thornton. “I am also looking forward to recognizing some amazing people who work hard in our community.”

The honorees for this year will be announced at the Second Annual Madison Visionary Awards on Thursday, March 28, at 8 a.m. at the Stadium Club in Toyota Field. Tickets are open to the public and are available for purchase starting Feb. 28.

By Mayor Paul Finley City of Madison

One of the thrills of being part of the Leadership Team in Madison is choosing impactful projects that serves a community need and meets a collective goal in the City of Madison. When Lee Marshall with Kids to Love approached us about the Safe Haven Baby Box project, it was an easy “Yes” for all local leaders. The road from idea to installation took many community stakeholders, but we proudly announce Madison Fire and Rescue now features a Safe Haven Baby Box at Fire Station 1 at Hughes and Mill. It now serves as the first operational infant surrender box in the state and it is available to serve women in crisis 24/7.

The initiative was led with the guidance of the the Safe Haven operation and funded through Kids to Love. The box is located on the east side of the building facing Hughes Road. If a woman chooses to surrender her infant via the Baby Box, the door locks when the mother closes the box. Silent alarms alert our first responders that a baby has been surrendered, and our Madison Fire and Rescue team will retrieve the infant within minutes. The baby will immediately be transported to Madison Hospital for medical evaluation while Kids

to Love works to connect the child with their adoptive family. The mother remains anonymous while our local agencies work together to provide the best care to the infant.

O Safe Haven Baby Box was an easy “yes” for the city of Madison

The Safe Haven Baby Box provides a vital resource to our community, especially for the most fragile of our numbers. The organization also aids women in crisis with their National Hotline, 1-866-99BABY1. The hotline provides free, confidential counseling with expertise in each state’s Safe Haven Law. We hope if ever the situation calls for use of the Safe Haven location at Fire Station 1, any motherin-crisis can be assured their little-one will be cared for by the trained and compassionate hands of Madison Fire and Rescue.

With the help of the Safe Haven organization and Madison Hospital pediatric nurses, our First Responders are now trained in providing infant critical care and on the Safe Haven Law to provide support for anonymous mothers-in-crisis.We extend sincere gratitude to the Kids to Love Foundation for leading fundraising efforts for this cause, and we thank everyone involved in establishing this Safe Haven location in the City of Madison.

- Madison Mayor Paul Finley

ALEXANDRA RAMSEY

Love is alive and well in the heart of this special artist as she enjoys nothing more than spreading that love through her art

STORY BY ERIN COGGINS PHOTOS BY ANDREW NOLES

FFebruary is synonymous with the word love. And love is more than romance. Love is patient, love is kind. Love is alive and well in the heart of Alexandra Ramsey. And she enjoys nothing more than spreading that love.

Alexandra, a quiet 22-year-old who loves plaid, Twix candy bars, stuffed animals and the Netflix series “Wednesday”, spends her free time painting local businesses, schools and the occasional portrait and then simply gives them away.

“Giving them away gives me joy,” Alexandra said. “I do it to spread kindness. I like painting. It’s one of my favorite hobbies.”

When Alexandra first came up with the idea, her mother, Kelly, was on board 100 percent. She says after taking a painting class while a junior at James Clemens High School, Alexandra got on a roll.

“She came to me and said, ‘Mom, I just wanna do this for people,” Kelly said. “And she does it out of the goodness of her heart and because she enjoys it.”

Culver’s, Wendy’s, McDonalds are all beneficiaries of Alexandra’s work. Since her first painting captured the beauty of a banana split sundae, ice cream became an object of her artwork. A subject that did not surprise Kelly.

“When she was a toddler, she kind of got her start playing with ice cream,” Kelly said. “She would sometimes put it on the window of the car and was like designing with her fingers–even when she was three years old. I had a feeling that she would be creative. She liked to work with her hands and make little shapes with Play-Doh.”

Alexandra painted a canvas of her alma mater but also captured Sparkman High School in acrylic, her favorite medium. She says the school’s interior is pretty and she wanted to paint it. She gifted the large painting to the school’s front office, leaving it in the hands of bookkeeper, Heidi Fowler.

“When she presented us with the artwork, she was so

Alexandra and her mother Kelly

quiet, but you could see that she was happy,” Fowler said. “She told us she thought our building was pretty. It was during the summer, but she had a small audience. We have fought over who gets it, but I think one of our SRO’s has claimed it for her office.”

Kelly is her partner in this endeavor, driving Alexandra to locations to drop off her gifts, sometimes accompanying her inside and sometimes waiting patiently in the parking lot.

“It makes me happy to drive her around to deliver her artwork–it’s delivering joy to other people,” Kelly said. “I’m just kind of her sidekick. I want her just to be; to have all the credit because she is the one who works hard. I’m just on the sidelines.”

As the sidekick, Kelly also mails Alexandra’s artwork to people and places out of state which Alexandra funds. Due to being a military family, the Ramseys have lived in several states. Alexandra often paints scenes from the places she has lived or visited and has those pieces sent to prospective recipients. In fact, her next project will be sent to Pittsburgh.

“We visit family in Pittsburgh and there is a candy store there we visit,” Alexandra said. “I want to paint a picture of the founder, Frank, who passed away.”

Alexandra creates her masterpieces in the family’s garage where she has a desk full of her supplies, including her favorite acrylic paint Apple Barrel. She prefers the quiet the garage offers.

“She likes the garage, not only because her art things are in there, but she likes quiet environments,” Kelly said. “I think it helps her too with not getting sensory overload or anything. Like Alexandra said she experiences noise sensitivity and overstimulation sometimes.”

Willing to paint anything she sees, Alexandra is never in need of a subject. Her approach is simple–if she is out and about and sees something that inspires her, she gets to work. Even painting people.

“I painted a portrait of Mayor Finley,” Alexandra said. “I presented it to the people in City Hall, but the mayor was not there. They thanked me for it.”

Her technique begins with a picture in her mind, then utilizes tracing paper to capture the image on canvas or wood, followed by blending her colors. She says the total time spent on anyone painting is 40 minutes.

“She will just be zoned out completely on what she is doing. She knows exactly what colors she wants to use,” Kelly said. “She is very focused and will not stop until she is finished. She just looks at stuff and just brings it to life. I’m like ‘whoa,’ I could never do that’.”

Before gifting her masterpieces, Alexandra adds her unique signature that includes a heart.

Besides acrylic painting, Alexandra also puts her artistic ability to use in creating art through graphic design, script writing and songwriting. She says her graphic art usually derives from her dreams.

“I dream about flying a lot, so the art I do on the app has me flying,” Alexandra said.

When she is not painting, Alexandra works three days a week at the Rose of Sharon soup kitchen where she sorts through donations. And yes, she has painted the building and will soon paint the cat, Percy, that roams the building.

“She’s very protective of that cat,” Kelly said. “It’s just who she is. She’s very calm and cares very deeply for both people and animals.”

And it’s that kind heart–that love–that defines Alexandra. It’s that kindness that hangs in the front window of Kroger’s, the Toyota Field grounds, Lowe’s and Home Depot.

“Alexandra really feels and loves hard. And I think that’s also why she enjoys so much doing what she does with the painting because she just really, really enjoys making people happy,” Kelly said. “And I tell her that I feel she lives up to her name which means helper and defender of mankind. And that is what she honest to goodness does.”

OUT&ABOUT

100th DAY OF SCHOOL - Each year several of the local schools mark the 100th day of school with special activities focused on creative STEM-related learning opportunities using the number 100. This year was no exception. One of our favorite things some schools do to instill fun into the day is dressing up as centenarians, or what they envision themselves looking like at age 100. Here are some fun scenes on Jan. 31 at Mill Creek and Midtown elementary schools.

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THE CHAN SISTERS

Sisters make waves in swimming as they help Bob Jones High School secure a second consecutive Class 6-7A State Championship

STORY BY BOB LABBE

PHOTOS BY JOSHUA BERRY

SSisters Samantha and Abby Chan recently helped the Bob Jones girls swim team win its second consecutive Class 6-7A State Championship by taking four gold medals collectively at the event held on the campus of Auburn University. The effort by the Lady Patriots gave them a 50-point team-scoring victory over runner-up Auburn High.

For Bob Jones, the highlight of the action inside the James E. Martin Aquatics Center came from senior Samantha and her freshman sister, Abby. Samantha won a gold medal in the 100 butterfly with a time of 53.98, which was just slightly less than a second faster than runner-up Abby with her time of 54.78. Abby took first place in the 100 backstroke with a winning time of 55.71.

The Chan sisters were also on the two relay teams which took home gold. The relay team of Abby, Finnley Koehler, Samantha and Meli Mbuko set a new state record with a time of 1:44.68 in the 200-medley relay.

The Chans, along with Peyton Brady and Emile Tesseneer, teamed up to win the 400-freestyle relay with a time of 3:34.71.

Swimming has always been the way of life for the two girls, both born in Huntsville to parents Edwin and Emily Chan. Samantha took to the water at age six while Abby, who is two years younger, joined in at age five. Samantha’s parents put her in swimming lessons at the Madison branch of the YMCA where she hesitated with the water, but eventually she wanted to try out for a swim team and swim the required 25-yard swim to join the Madison Dolphins swim team. As for Abby, she began to swim and passed the YMCA swim test at age three, but she gave up swimming for two years before getting back in the water where she watched her older sister join a swim team and practice on an almost daily basis.

“I have memories of watching Samantha during her

practice sessions and I would dive into the pool and try to race her in the final 25 yards,” said Abby. “She was a tremendous driving force for me to begin swimming and be successful. Still today, my goal is to swim with her and to win.”

“I do remember when Abby was about six years old as my best stroke was the butterfly and I taught her that stroke and she caught on quick,” said Samantha, who will turn 17 in March. “Our childhood years were good. My fondest memories include having someone to play with as we got along most of the time. I would help her with her homework, and I even tried to teach her how to speak Chinese, which both of us can’t speak.”

Samantha has a 5.3 grade point average which places her third in her 2024 graduating class at Bob Jones. In November 2023 she signed an athletic scholarship to swim for the Georgia Tech Yellowjackets and looks to study bio-medical engineering with her hopes of one day becoming a medical doctor. Her skills of being able to play the piano after eight years of lessons and being a member of the Bob Jones math team make for the 5-foot3 and a half to easily be an all-around student-athlete. She also swims for the Huntsville Swim Association and last December participated in the Speedo Winter Junior Championships held in Columbus, Ohio. She competed

in seven races and had four personal best (PR) times. She posted her PRs in the 50 freestyle (23.26), 100 freestyle (51.46), 100 butterfly (53.60) and 200 freestyle (1:50.30). She also posted times in the 100 backstroke (54.92), 200 butterfly (1:59.77) and 100 butterfly-long course (1:02.14).

Abby also made the 500-mile trip north on Interstates 65 and 71 to the campus of Ohio State University for the Junior Nationals. The freshman at Bob Jones, who stands upon the starting block at 5-foot-5, she, too, had four PR performances out of the six races she competed in. Her personal best came in the 50 freestyle (23.55), 100 butterfly (54.44), 100 freestyle (51.90) and 200 freestyle (1:55.90). She also posted a 55.31 in the 100 backstroke and 1:04.16 in the 100-butterfly long course.

Ryan Rhodes, head coach of the Bob Jones swim team, has known the Chan sisters for years and said of their outstanding talent, “I used to see them working out on their own outside of regular practice at Dublin Memorial Park at a very high level of workouts that including underwater swimming that is regarded as a more advance technique. They knew how to prepare for races. They knew what their body needed for top performances.”

Since childhood ages, the two sisters have always been close and supportive of one another. Their mother, Emily, told of one moment she remembers of the two when

Abby was two years old and had an allergic reaction to Ibuprofen where she began to suffer symptoms of seizures and was rushed to the Emergency Room of Madison Hospital. “Samantha was the one who actually noticed something was wrong with Abby. I also remember we accidentally left some food cooking on the stove while we left for the hospital and returned home to fire trucks outside our home. The food burned, but no other damage,” said Emily.

Another example of the sisters’ compassion for others, especially one another, is the time Samantha was acting out of character and was put in “time out” by her mother. It wasn’t long before Abby made her way to her sister to comfort her during Samantha’s punishment. Today, their tender-heartedness continues for one another. Abby added, “When I see Samantha swim, I recognize her abilities to be really fast. I like cheering for her.”

Samantha is busy preparing for her final months of high school and the steps to becoming a college student-athlete. She also spends some of her valuable time teaching three- to nine-year-old children how to swim

at the Madison Hospital Wellness Center. She said she enjoys teaching, but added, “I haven’t thought much about being a swim coach once I get out of college, though swimming has been a big part of my life. My future plans are to become a doctor.”

Emily remembers the early days and years of her daughters saying Samantha was a very cheerful baby who hardly ever cried while Abby was more of a drama queen. They loved similar things, but as they grew, they began to have different interests. Today, Abby likes to read, draw and bake. Samantha likes to crochet and do calligraphy and other arts and crafts. They are the best of friends.

Much like at the Junior Championships when TV cameras zoomed into the finish of the 100 butterfly when Samantha won one of the heats, Abby was right there behind her older sibling with a wide smile congratulating her sister knowing all along her goal is to one day catch her sister’s talent within the lanes in the pool, the two are supportive and competitive. Those facets of what makes up their personalities are what are the driving forces in their lives.

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JIM PARKER

He composes, performs and mentors songwriters in a lifetime of music

STORY BY GREGG PARKER

FFocused on music since the early 1960s, Jim Parker pursued an 8-to-5 career but always cherished the music scene. In fact, Parker’s musical career is still on a high note.

In 2001, he founded “Jim Parker’s Songwriters Series” at Bandito Burrito on Main Street in Madison. By 2005, his gathering of musicians had accepted an invitation for a permanent home at the Von Braun Center Playhouse.

“We’re still going strong after 19 years, bringing hit songwriters to the stage from around the states,” Parker said. “We tell the stories behind our songs that have earned National Chart recognition, Grammies and Gold and Platinum records.” Plus, the series introduces upand-coming local songwriters.

Jim Parker’s Songwriters Showcase plans seven more shows in 2024.

Composing in 2017, “Billy Droze released our bluegrass hit (written by Billy, Ronnie Bowman and me) called ‘Better With Time.’ It was on the bluegrass charts for eight weeks at No. 1 and gets airplay around the

world today,” Parker said.

Also on the “To Whom It May Concern” album, “Home in Hell” released at that same time. Droze and Parker wrote that song.

Parker penned “Back to the Country” in 1969 for release on the mini-series “D.B. Cooper, Where Are You?” The song also had a release in 2022. A live performance of the song is available on YouTube, performed by Baby and videotaped on “The Real Don Steele Show” in Los Angeles in the 1970s.

In addition, “Back to the Country” was licensed on ABC, The CW, TNT Network, ITV Canada, Hallmark and AMC networks.

In January 2022, Billy Droze and John Anderson re-released the classic country song “Chicken Truck” on RBR Entertainment Records; Parker and Anderson wrote the song. In 1981, Anderson originally released “Chicken Truck” as his second single, which reached No. 8 on national country charts.

“I met Mark O’Connor in the early 1980s when he permanently moved to Nashville. I’d been there since

1975 and was established as a songwriter,” Parker said. “Mark had already proven his skill level in the music industry after playing (fiddle at) The Opry at 12 years old. He was 25 when we met and was only doing about four demo sessions a month.”

To supplement his income, Parker was working in the Country Music Hall of Fame’s mailroom, selling “All Food Tabs” (multi-level marketing) and playing guitar on the road with musicians Dave and Sugar. “Mark got involved in marketing to supplement his income, too, and had Jim Ed Norman (producer and arranger of The Eagles strings) purchase the product,” Parker said.

“Jim Ed heard Mark’s fiddle work and invited him to a Master Session on Michael Martin Murphy. Mark took off from there,” Parker said. Along with many Master Sessions and bookings as first-call fiddle, “Mark played on every 1980s country hit coming out of Nashville.”

O’Connor credits Parker for establishing him in Nashville, ironically due to their multi -level marketing.

Forwarding to 2023, Mark completed his autobiography, including a feature for Parker, and messaged Parker for a Nashville meeting. “I drove up the next day and met Mark’s wife Maggie and three couples he’d invited for the evening. Mark and Maggie, also a classically trained violinist, were singing together,” Parker said about first hearing Mark sing.

The O’Connors were writing their own song, so Parker asked if Mark needed “words.” “I went home and forwarded three sets of lyrics. They selected ‘Spice of Life,’” Parker said.

When the O’Connors sang “Spice of Life” at the Opry, Parker’s family visited them backstage. “Before their outstanding performance of ‘Spice of Life’ (our co-write), Mark gave us a shout-out, mentioning our hometown. Life is good!” Parker said.

Meanwhile, Jim Parker’s Songwriters Series has continued. “I’m inspired because I’m helping sustain my songwriter friends in the business. With the current pay scale of .003 per Spotify stream, it takes about 3.7 million streams to make $1,100,” he said.

The series “is mostly joyful but at times stressful. Booking compatible songwriters and coordinating everything over the past 19 years has had its moments,” Parker said.

Parker praised the VBC staff. “We make a good team. It was exceedingly difficult when COVID-19 closed our doors. We survived and plan to continue as long as it’s successful,” he said. Tickets are available at the VBC Box Office.

Parker’s plans include a new song that he’s co-writing with Grammy winner Gary Nichols and Davin McCoy. “I’ve partnered with Don Howard, an incredible artist, who’s illustrating my poems in a book” with completion by year-end.

Parker has worked as Associate Broker with Averbuch Realty, 11 years; RE/MAX, 23 years; Coldwell Banker, two years; and founded Parker Realty Group in Madison in 1985. “I’ve been in the real estate industry for 44 years, earned my Emeritus status and I’m still going strong,” he said.

Lysa, his wife of 45 years, co-authored (with Barbara

PlanAheadto EnjoyYour OutdoorSpace

Nicholson) “Attached at the Heart” and

Attachment Parenting International. (attachmentparenting.org) Lysa teaches yoga online and home-schools granddaughter, Layla.

The Parkers’ sons live in Huntsville. Older son, Jesse, works for the Missile Defense Agency. Jamison owns a clothing business, Huntsville Fresh (Instagram @huntsvillefreshclothing, www.HuntsvilleFreshClothing.com) and works for Lyft and Uber; he has two children.

For more information about Jim Parker’s Songwriters Series, visit jimparkermusic.com or Averbuchrealty.com.

STORY BY ERIN COGGINS PHOTOS BY ANDREW NOLES

WWearing his Madison County Sheriff’s Department uniform, including his weapons, Sparkman High School Resource Officer, Travion Ragland, walks into the school’s student government meeting.

He is not there to intimidate. He is not there to do a talk on safety. He is there to lead.

At the beginning of the school year, Ragland noticed a few emails going out from the administration that the organization needed a sponsor. He kept a close eye on the situation for a couple of weeks and then decided to ask Principal Todd Dreifort if he could take the lead.

“I saw the opportunity. I saw the need. I did student government while in school at Lee High School and then in college at Alabama A&M,” Ragland said. “I thought that I could make it a great experience for our students.”

Ragland knows SGA can make a difference. While serving at Lee, his organization coordinated a peaceful protest and silent walk-out to combat the proposed school name. Having been successful in this endeavor,

Ragland knew the first thing he had to do as the sponsor was to get students involved–to buy in. He got his first chance with homecoming.

“I’m in the hallways every day and talk to students all the time. I asked them what they wanted to see differently and most of them said homecoming,” Ragland said. “It was usually about having the dance in the gym. Too hot, they said. So, we started focusing on how to make the dance fun.”

With his co-sponsor, history teacher Andre’a Metoyer, the dance was approved to be held at Toyota Field. And they also granted the second wish of students–a good DJ.

“The kids had a blast. It was a different atmosphere,” Ragland said. “They really enjoyed the atmosphere and the environment which just made it all more fun.”

Ragland’s passion for working with kids goes back to his first job working at the skating rink.

“I just have a passion for the youth, I mean, youth today is our future,” Ragland said. “I feel like it’s my job to

help shape and mold them, so they can be productive citizens, so we don’t have to worry about anything when we retire and get old. They are going to be our doctors, our lawyers, our teachers, so we have to instill much in them now while we have them.”

The idea of the SRO being the student government sponsor has been a shock for some. Ragland says many people have questioned why he would become involved with a school club. Metoyer, on the other hand, wel comed Ragland’s partnership.

As she was walking to Driefort’s office to inform him that she would love to take on SGA, she met Ragland in the hallway. After their greeting, both discovered that they were headed to the same place for the same reason.

“My initial thought was ‘This is going to be a school year for the books.’ I wanted to start SGA duties right then and there,” Metoyer said. “The idea of an SRO sponsoring SGA was so original I knew students would love the idea.”

The teacher and SRO alliance allows for both Ragland and Metoyer to use their differing responsibilities to their advantage. Ragland, who must be alert and avail able to handle situations at all times, does have some downtime during the day to complete the leg work while Metoyer, a certified Madison County School employee, conducts the official paperwork.

“Between the two of us, we are in constant motion and contact with just about the entire faculty and staff,” Metoyer said. “With two people, we are also able to hold deeper connections with more students. This allows us to hold students accountable and ensure that the organi zation is the best it can be, which in turn creates a posi tive environment for everyone.”

Besides Metoyer, Ragland has another big supporter. His wife, Tiera, is always on hand to help with the little things like decorating for homecoming.

“It’s a family affair,” Ragland said. “We spent all day setting up homecoming, but she enjoys it. Thankfully, I have a lovely wife who doesn’t mind hanging out with students.”

Ragland’s involvement with the students has extended beyond SGA. He was recently caught on video directing the Marching Senators Band at the team’s game against Albertville. His connection to the school’s fine arts program has always been strong with Ragland attending concerts, plays and listening to the band attentively at games, so he asked band director, Brenton Nash, if he could direct the band one day.

“He was like, ‘Are you serious?’ I told him yes that I had always wanted to do it whenever he was ready,” Ragland said. “And the time came. I was just hanging out near the band and he told me to get up there. I had an absolute blast. The kids love to see it and I love doing it. We are actually going to try and make it a tradition.”

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The new semester has brought new ideas and Ragland has been at the center of it all. He has brought back the Mr. and Mrs. Sparkman tradition for the first time in 11 years—an honor that was once bestowed on former Speaker of the House, Mac McCutcheon. With his support, SGA has worked with Dreifort to approve a silent dance, a talent show and a senior dress-up week.

“These are all new things; things we have not approved or been able to host until now,” senior and SGA member Meh’Quira Malone said. “Dep. Ragland has been instrumental in getting us to think outside of the box for new ideas and encourages us to go to the principal and present them in a mature manner.”

Ragland, who joined the Madison County Sheriff’s Department in 2018, does not see his role as the SGA sponsor much different from his role as the school resource officer or a deputy. To him, it is all about being a community relations officer.

“The only difference is we are the officer they see every day when they come to school,” Ragland said. “So, our job basically is to build that relationship between the police and society, youth in general.”

And that’s exactly what Ragland is doing–building relationships.

“I am open and friendly with the kids and I let them

580644-1 51NANCERD,MADISON

know that I’m just not a cop here in uniform,” Ragland said. “This has opened them up to making positive relationships with me. The students feel like they can actually trust me and come talk to me to get a positive answer to their problems.”

Ragland’s superiors are not shocked that he has made the step to become more involved with the student body at Sparkman.

“My sergeant told me that I was made for this,” Ragland said. “I’m getting my kudos and every time I see them they tell me to keep it up.”

Metoyer agrees with the sergeant that Ragland is indeed made for this. She says she sees it in the students every time they are around the SRO.

“From what I noticed, students are in love with having their SRP lead a school club. It is funny to watch our ‘too cool for school’ students show excitement and school spirit,” Metoyer said. “I watch students in the stands gaze at Ragland as we host school pep rallies. They constantly walk up to him in the hallways to ask about the next SGA meeting or to simply pitch ideas to him. Despite Ragland being in uniform, students now seem to be able to let their guards down and be open with them. They see him as less authoritarian and more of a role model. It is amazing to witness.”

Deputy Ragland helping to lead the marching band during one of the football games last fall.

Equine Therapy

...

WWe have learned a lot about the needs of children living in foster care over our 20 years of service, and every year it seems we discover new ways to help them heal from the trauma they have experienced and endured.

Our newest method to treat trauma is Equine Therapy. I’ve had this dream since we first bought the property for Davidson Farms, and I’m so excited to see it come to fruition at The Damson Family Barn.

Working with a Masters Licensed Social Worker and Equine Therapist, and a credentialed Equine Specialist, children will experience healing interactions with horses. They will understand how our emotions can be

mirrored through a horse’s, how to care for a horse and gain self-confidence. The goal is to connect with the horse on a deep level, and to build trust with the horse and the therapist.

Healing trauma is a vital part of making sure children have everything they need to succeed not only during their time in foster care but to create a healthy life when they are adults.

As with many of our programs, there are ways you will be able to support Equine Therapy, namely in helping us gather some tools we need for therapy sessions. Stay tuned to kidstolove.org and our social media channels for those opportunities.

LEMON & LAVENDER

Local eco-friendly business gets new location on Main Street in downtown Madison

STORY BY ERIN COGGINS

PHOTOS BY JOSHUA BERRY

After a little over two years in business, Brandy Booth and Shannon Fisher, co-owners of Lemon & Lavender, knew they wanted a bigger, permanent home in downtown Madison.

In October, the two made 108 Main St. that home.

A“When we first opened Lemon & Lavender we knew our vision of providing eco-friendly, all-natural kitchen, bath, and home decor. But as our customer base grew and we heard time and again the other products they wished we would carry, which included baby and pet products, we knew we did not have the space we needed. We knew this from the beginning actually, but listening to our customer requests solidified it for us,” Booth said.

Booth and Fisher knew from the beginning that they wanted their business to be a part of historic downtown Madison. Lemon & Lavender first opened in January 2021 inside the historic Clay House. They were excited to open the business but realized that the space inside 16 Main was small, so when 108 Main became available in

January 2022, the two said they knew immediately that was the new space for their business.

After approximately 20 months of renovations, the new location opened to coincide with the Madison Street Festival.

“We were able to incorporate some of the original items from the buildings, such as the 100-year-old oak planks which now provide a beautiful, eco-friendly backdrop to some of our products,” Fisher said.

Besides the needed space to meet customer needs, Booth and Fisher made some other changes that required a bigger space. For one, the two began manufacturing their own products with Booth at the lead. They currently manufacture seven Lemon & Lavender products in-house. The other was the opening of The Refillery, the first to open in North Alabama and only the second to exist in the state.

“The Refillery has always been a part of our business model, however in 225 square feet at 16 Main, we were

unable to bring this to our customers,” Fisher said. “With the new location, The Refillery is able to stand alone in the store, which provides us the opportunity to share why The Refillery is so important.”

Fisher says the Refillery, a concept popular in the Northwest and North East, is their answer to reducing single-use plastic. Customers can purchase laundry detergent, liquid hand soap, body wash and bath salts.

“The amount of plastic waste the U.S. has per year is astounding—to the tons of 82 million tons a year,” Fisher said. “I personally have a passion for this part of our store. We could not move forward with this mission unless we were able to move into a larger space.”

Like the Refillery, other products carried in the black and white storefront, are eco-friendly. It is so important to Booth and Fisher that it is included in their brand story. The story states that as women, they know the value of self-care, and as mothers, we also want to do our part to protect the environment to leave a better world for their children and grandchildren. This mantra leads Booth and Fisher to constantly watch like-minded companies around the U.S. and the world to see what brands and products they are carrying.

“We look for products that are all-natural, organic, small-batch and packaged in reusable or sustainable packaging,” Booth said. “We want our customers to feel

confident that anything they purchase from our store has been vetted by us already, and they can be confident knowing what they are buying is safe and good for their bodies.”

Lemon & Lavender may have a new address, but some things have remained the same. The workshops, held in the extra sitting room of 16 Main, continue to be offered. At the moment, the owners are trying to offer two workshops a month. From charcuterie workshops to chunky blanket making to cookie design to sourdough workshops, Booth says the workshops continue to be a hit.

“No matter what type of class it is, we meticulously plan and coordinate to make sure it stays within our vision of sustainability practices,” Booth said. “We also offer private workshops which have immediately been popular. We have hosted a dental staff chunky blanket workshop as well as a private charcuterie workshop for clients of a local realtor.”

Both Booth and Fisher say that they have been so overwhelmed with support from their current customer base as well as new customers since moving into the new location. Although they loved their old space and sharing the space with other women-owned businesses, not having a storefront was difficult at times.

“Now, we have a space where customers strolling by are welcomed with our open doors—when weather permits—and our large open windows,” Booth said. “We love watching people walk down the sidewalk and immediately pause when they smell all the amazing scents as well as to stop and window shop. It is sometimes overwhelming to know where we started only two and a half years ago and to see where we are and what impact we are making now.”

Like Booth, Fisher never tires of hearing customers walk in and speak to the design of the new space and how much they love it and how nice it smells. She understands the impact customers make when they choose to shop local.

“There are memes all over the place about small businesses doing a ‘happy dance’ with every sale. Many times, Brandy and I will text each other when a day is going especially well because we are so excited,” Fisher said. “Excited that the community is choosing us, choosing to shop small, but also that they want to do better in terms of being eco-friendly and that we are an avenue they are using to incorporate that into their daily life.”

For more, go to www.lemonandlavendermadison. com or call 256-509-7247. You can also find them on Facebook and Instagram.

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What

Jewelry box staples for effortless dressing at Hobbs Jewelers.

See page 3

Looking for the perfect piece to compliment your spring decor?

Check out Noble Passage

You can find something for every occasion at Queen Bee of Beverly Hills

Antique Luster Lamps at Madison Station Antiques

This month’s birthstone is Amethyst, which is often viewed as a stone of peace. Check out this lovely selection of amethyst jewelry at Meyer & Lee

All you need is love... and more shoes from Blue Ribbon Shoes, of course. See page 4

How adorable are these children’s house shoes at Blue Ribbon Shoes

Lovin’ this ”All in Love” pretty heart pendant at Sprays Jewelers. See page 18

You never know what you might find at Noble Passage

RosesFade, LuxuryisForever .

There is always a huge selection at Meyer and Lee

Embrace the essence of timeless beauty with the Quilted Fashion collection at Hobbs Jewelers.

See page 3

Petit size Tiger Oak China Buffet w/ leaded Glass at Madison Station Antiques

Nothing else says luxury like Queen Bee of Beverly Hills

The Downtown Top Ten from the Shoppes of Historic Downtown Madison

ABy Brandy Booth

As February unfolds, it brings with it an air of romance and affection, turning the spotlight onto matters of the heart. This amorous atmosphere has long established February as the month of love, with Valentine’s Day as its crowning celebration. Amidst the exchange of tokens of affection and heartfelt sentiments, businesses strive to add a touch of cupid’s charm to their offerings. From quaint seating in any of the downtown restaurants to small and large showcasing from retail businesses, this month becomes a canvas for Madison’s downtown businesses to help you weave love into the day. In this feature, we explore some of the various downtown businesses and how they are embracing the spirit of February, making it not just a month on the calendar but a canvas for love’s vibrant palette.

In this article we are highlighting Galentine’s Day (Feb. 13) events, Valentine Day (Feb. 14) events, and

everything else to celebrate February, the month of love.

Pure Barre Madison Galentine’s Day event

February 13th

Located at 14 Main Street

This Galentine’s Day, elevate your celebration with a heart-pounding twist at Pure Barre. Bring a friend for a dynamic and invigorating fitness session that will leave you both feeling energized and empowered. After the class, indulge in the sweet side of celebration with a post-workout treat –champagne and chocolates await. This unique experience combines the joy of fitness, the camaraderie of friendship, and the decadence of Galentine’s Day delights, creating a memorable fusion of wellness and celebration. Join up for a Pure Barre session, where love for movement meets the sweetness of shared moments.

Lemon & Lavender Galentine’s Candle Making Workshop

February 13th, 6:30 pm

Located at 108 Main Street

A candle-making workshop on Galentine’s Day is a perfect blend of creativity and camaraderie. Gather your best pals for an evening of crafting and laughter, where each candle becomes a symbol of friendship and shared memories. As you pour, mold, and customize your candles, the process becomes a metaphor for the uniqueness of each friendship. The flickering glow of your handcrafted candles mirrors the warmth of your connections. It’s a Galentine’s celebration that transcends conventional gestures, creating tangible tokens of the bonds you cherish. Unleash your creativity, share stories, and leave with both candles and hearts alight with the joy of shared moments.

Visit www.lemonandlavendermadison.com for more info and to reserve your spot.

Lanier Tea House’s Italian Romeo and Juliet Menu Theme

February 14

Located at 20 Martin Street

Indulging in an Italian Romeo and Juliet-inspired service at Lanier House for Valentine’s Day offers an enchanting

escape into the realms of timeless romance. Imagine being transported to Verona, where the ironic love story unfolds, with every sip and every delicately crafted treat echoing the passion of Shakespeare’s tale. The tea house, adorned with subtle nods to the classic narrative, becomes a haven for lovers seeking a unique and intimate experience. Delight in the richness of various teas paired with delectable pastries and finger sandwiches, each bite telling a story of love and longing. The ambiance, reminiscent of Juliet’s balcony and the streets of Verona, sets the stage for an unforgettable romantic rendezvous. Choosing this Italian-inspired service is not just about enjoying exquisite teas and treats; it is about immersing oneself in a love story that has transcended centuries. Whether you are a devotee of literature or merely enamored by the allure of timeless romance, this Valentine’s Day service promises an enchanting escape into the pages of one of the greatest love stories ever told. Elevate your celebration and make this Valentine’s Day an ode to love, reminiscent of the eternal bond between Romeo and Juliet.

Visit Lanier Tea House at www.lanierhousemadison.com for reservations.

Main Street Cafe Valentine Dinner Reservations

February 14th

Located at 101 Main Street

Opting for a quiet dinner at this small downtown restaurant unveils an intimate culinary haven where every moment

DOWNTOWN MADISON

is savored. In this tucked-away gem, the ambiance is unhurried, allowing conversations to flow seamlessly while relishing carefully crafted dishes. The cozy setting exudes charm, creating a personal retreat from the busy-ness of life. Here, the focus is on each exquisite bite and the shared warmth of company. The attentive service and thoughtfully curated meal promises an experience that transcends a mere meal–it’s a culinary embrace in the heart of the city, making a quiet dinner at Main Street Cafe the epitome of an enchanting escape for Valentine’s Day or any day.

Old Black Bear February 13th Menu

Located at 21 Main Street

Appetizer - Deep fried jalapeno sausage grits balls served with Creole mustard. Entree - Cajun-style Fettuccine with Conecuh sausage, crawfish, and shrimp

Old Black Bear February 14th Menu

Entree - Bacon-wrapped grilled scallops with a balsamic glaze served with asparagus and risotto. Dessert - Chocolate-covered strawberries

Lanier House’s Book Club and Full-Service Tea

End of February

Located at 20 Martin Street

Embark on a literary journey that transcends the pages as the Lanier House book club introduces a delightful fusion of intellect and indulgence: a full-service tea experience. Picture a cozy gathering where avid readers delve into the intricacies of compelling narratives while savoring the elegance of carefully brewed teas and delectable treats. The book club unfolds within the warm embrace of Lanier House’s tea haven, where discussions intertwine with the aromatic symphony of premium teas, from classic Earl Grey to exotic blends. As characters come to life in conversations, their full-service tea adds a sensory layer to the narrative - a fragrant pause that enhances the literary adventure. Imagine the magic of turning pages while sipping on perfectly steeped teas, accompanied by a medley of pastries and finger sandwiches. This book club transcends the conventional, merging the joy of reading with the refined pleasure of a full-service tea. It is a haven for those seeking intellectual camaraderie and sensory indulgence, where the love for literature harmonizes with the artistry of tea brewing, creating an immersive experience that lingers beyond the final chapter. Join in celebrating the written word and the exquisite world of tea, where every page turned and every sip taken is a step deeper into the realm of literary and culinary delight. Visit Lanier Tea House at www.laniehousemadison.com for more details.

EUROPEAN TOUR

STORY BY GREGG PARKER

Madison’s Robin Dauma extols KTECH’s potential to Slovenian, Bulgarian audiences

AA Madison resident has educated interested listeners in Europe about the proven potential of an initiative created in Madison.

As a representative of the KTECH initiative and Global Ties Alabama, Robin Dauma traveled to the Republic of Slovenia and Republic of Bulgaria to discuss KTECH’s value in reaching careers in advanced manufacturing.

“I had the privilege of participating in the Youth Transatlantic Innovation Leaders Initiative or YTILI, a program for reciprocal exchange,” KTECH Recruitment Specialist Robin Dauma said. Dauma attended at the invitation of Kristiyan Mihaylov, the YTILI Fellow who partnered with KTECH in spring 2023.

The trip’s objective involved Mihaylov’s intent to use KTECH’s example of a unique, holistic approach in his efforts to accomplish similar successes in Bulgaria.

In Alabama, KTECH workforce training has established itself as a leader in the state’s advanced manufacturing industry. Kids to Love originated KTECH.

The visit was affiliated with Global Ties Alabama, a non-profit partner of the U.S. Department of State, which promotes international relationships with citizen diplomacy to enrich Alabama’s education, commerce and global awareness.

“I am so grateful for this opportunity to represent KTECH and Global Ties Alabama and to continue helping Kristiyan achieve his dream of providing workforce development and training opportunities for his fellow Bulgarians,” Dauma said. Dauma spoke to audiences of educators, tech professionals and government leaders about KTECH’s success.

Since its doors opened in 2016, KTECH has awarded more than 420 certifications to 93 students. Graduates of KTECH work in 25-plus companies throughout the Tennessee Valley.

Mihaylov co-founded PARA or Professional Association of Robotics, Automation and Innovation, a nonprofit organization based in Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital. PARA connects entities interested in innovations

Robin Dauma (center) with Kristiyan Mihaylov (left) and Kristiyan Mihaylov (right) in Sofia, Bulgaria.

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toChoose…

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in robotics and automation, showcases success stories and attracts partnerships and capital necessary for (growth), Dauma said.

During Dauma’s time in Bulgaria and Slovenia, Mihaylov arranged meetings with several local organizations and individuals in Sofia. “We were honored guests at opening-day ceremonies for Svetlina SoftUni School, the first vocational high school in Bulgaria ‘for digital science, programming, design and digital business,’” Dauma said.

While KTECH students earn many job certifications in various training programs, the staff also confirms they’re ready for work in other ways. “We’re thrilled that our approach prepares students in all aspects of their lives -- financial education, job interview and resume preparation, food security, personal health and more. KTECH has attracted the attention of groups overseas who are looking to solve similar workforce challenges,” Dauma said.

KTECH’s mission fits perfectly with Mihaylov’s group, PARA. “He wanted to learn about what we do and - more importantly - how we do it,” Dauma said. KTECH’s holistic teaching approach, small class size and goal of working with under-represented populations are important strategies that Mihaylov wants PARA to use.

“Kristiyan’s time at KTECH was spent immersed in our day-to-day operations and talking to students, instructors and industry partners so that he could explain to his colleagues how our formula for success could be customized to work in Bulgaria,” Dauma said.

An especially important lesson for Mihaylov involved KTECH’s Life Lab component, which focuses on aspects of personal success, like nutrition, stress management, financial literacy and interview skills. These qualities serve to enhance each student’s preparation for the job market . . . with a profound effect on students’ lives.

Dauma explained these and other components that distinguish KTECH in the field of workforce development to various Bulgarian leaders in educational and industrial sectors. Hopefully, Mihaylov can launch a similar effort there more effectively and use KTECH as a model and example of excellence.

Local business leaders in Bulgaria welcomed Dauma’s group for tours of various facilities and the industrial zone in Ploniv, a nearby town with a burgeoning industrial center.

“The last two days of my time in Sofia were spent at Sofia Tech Park. The park’s operating director met with us and gave us a tour of the potential class space. I was

interviewed for a podcast,” Dauma said.

“Kristiyan organized a Robotics Forum on my final day in Sofia. Many organizations and companies participated (with) a student competition for a robotics grant,” Dauma said.

At that grant competition, Dauma was a keynote speaker and explained KTECH’s mission and the procedures and strategy that the KTECH staff applies to implement initiative programs.

After leaving Sofia, Dauma participated in the YTILI Alumni Summit in Ljubljana, Slovenia. Dauma described her visit’s last segment as “an incredible experience. Around 90 YTILI fellows (past and present) joined about 10 hosts from the United States for the conference,” she said.

A private school licensed by the Alabama Community College System, KTECH won the award for Alabama Automotive Manufacturer’s Association Service Provider in 2021. KTECH offers interactive instruction for students to earn certifications in robotics, soldering, modeling/design software and Mechatronics.

The twentieth Mechatronics class opened in early

2024 with eight students, ranging from 18 to 37 years old. These students are completing a 16-week comprehensive, hands-on curriculum that will qualify them for numerous jobs in Industrial Maintenance and related fields.

“Our sixth Virtual Reality Academy class began in late January 2024 with six students from four area high schools and one college graduate. They will take part in 12 weeks of intensive work using Unreal Engine, which is virtual reality development software, and complementary processes in software development,” Dauma said.

For rising students in grades 9-12, the weeklong Camp KTECH and Camp KTECH VR will be held in June 2024. Registration is open. Based on financial need, scholarships are available for qualifying campers.

Formerly, Dauma taught honors and advancedplacement English at Bob Jones High School and sponsored students’ technical organizations.

Kids to Love’s address is 140 Castle Drive in Madison. For more information, visit goktech.org or globaltiesalabama.org.

Combine decadence with refreshment on Valentine’s Day

CChocolate is often described as “decadent,” and rightfully so. Few foods can make people feel as if they’re being indulgent as well as chocolate. Perhaps that’s what makes chocolate such a great fit for Valentine’s Day. When giving that special someone some chocolate on February 14, you’re not just giving them something delicious, but also a chance to indulge in a forbidden fruit.

But chocolate desserts can be more than merely decadent. In fact, this recipe for “Pasticcio di Cioccolato con Lampone (Individual Chocolate Cakes With Fresh Raspberries)” from Michael White and Joanna Pruess’ “Fiamma: The Essence of Contemporary Italian Cooking” (Wiley) is both decadent and, thanks to the fresh raspberries, refreshing. The individual cake is an ideal Valentine’s Day gift, as it serves to emphasize how that special someone is the only one for you.

Pasticcino di Cioccolato con Lampone

(Individual Chocolate Cakes With Fresh Raspberries)

Makes 8 servings

11/3 cups cake flour, sifted

1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, sifted

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

6 tablespoons unsalted butter

6 large eggs

1 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted

1 pint fresh raspberries

Vegetable cooking spray

Pinch of sea salt

Preheat the oven to 325 F. Spray a standard muffin tin with nonstick spray or fill 8 of the cups with paper or foil liners.

Sift the flour, 1/3 cup of cocoa, salt, and baking soda into a bowl and set aside. Melt the butter in a small

saucepan and set aside.

Combine the eggs and sugar in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a whisk attachment. Set the bowl over a pan partially filled with simmering water. The water should not touch the bowl. Using a whisk, beat the eggsugar mixture until it feels very warm to the touch and all of the sugar has dissolved. Immediately remove the bowl from the heat and transfer it to the electic mixer.

Whip the egg-sugar mixture on medium speed for 3 to 4 minutes until it triples in volume and is very thick and light colored. Add the vanilla and whip 2 to 3 seconds longer to blend. Remove the bowl from the mixer and gently fold in the flour-cocoa mixture.

Place about 11/2 cups of the batter in a separate bowl and fold in the melted butter. Do this gently, as you do not want to overwork the batter. Fold this into the remaining batter. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake tins. Bake in the center of the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick or knife inserted in the center of one cupcake comes out clean. Remove and cool completely on a rack.

While the cupcakes are cooling, combine the heavy cream with the confectioners’ sugar and the remaining 2 tablespoons of cocoa, beat into soft peaks, and set aside.

Remove the cupcakes from the tin and place them on dessert plates. Spoon the whipped cream on top, divide the raspberries among the plates and serve.