Madison Living July 2016

l l o r a On July 2016

DIXIE DERBY GIRLS

keep the course hot

Sips and nibbles Madison hosts food truck round-up

s e i r o m e Msic and mu Layne Johnson shares her story

MANAGEMENT Alan Brown President & Publisher EDITORIAL Alison James Editor

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Gregg Parker Staff Writer

features

Jen Fouts-Detulleo Photographer MARKETING Kim Maracigan Marketing Consultant CUSTOMER SERVICE Tammy Overman Customer Service PRODUCTION www.design2pro.com Michael Kurov Art director Lyudmila Dyomina Design Madison Living P.O. Box 859, Madison, AL 35758 Advertising Inquires 256.772.6677 Madison Living is published monthly by Madison Publications, LLC.

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HOME TRANSFORMATION

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LET’S EAT TOAST OF THE TOWN

13

HEALTH ACTIVE AFTERNOONS

14

SPORT ON A ROLL EDUCATION

22

SCHOOLED GIVING BACK

26

DEDICATED DOCTOR ARTS AND CULTURE

31

HOPE AND HAPPINESS

34

CHAMBER NEWSLETTER

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OUT AND ABOUT

Madison Living 3

HOME

Transformation

Sharon Webber, at center, is surrounded by daughters Olivia, from left, Leighanne and Lauren.

4 Madison Living

WRITTEN BY GREGG L. PARKER PHOTOGRAPHS BY JEN FOUTS-DETULLEO

Sharon Webber recommends ‘Discover your own style!’

BELOW: The traditional, two-story house has 3,032 square feet with four bedrooms, office, family and dining rooms and 2.5 baths.

S

haron Webber adamantly believes anyone can master home decor.

“You don’t have to hire an expensive interior decorator or buy brand-name furniture to have a pretty house,” Webber said. “I’ve always been interested in decorating but was too intimidated. So what if you choose a color you don’t like or are unsure how to arrange furniture?

Look up ideas online. You’ll likely start noticing a pattern in what catches your eye.”

Buying her house in north Madison 12.5 years ago, Webber was attracted to its large kitchen, bonus room and space for a growing family. She saw potential in future updates.

“The transformation I’ve brought to my home represents the personal transformation I’ve been on

Madison Living 5

the last few years. I’m so content with where (my daughters) and I are now,” she said.

The traditional, two-story house has 3,032 square feet with four bedrooms, office, family and dining rooms and 2.5 baths. She considers the red/orange brick a little harsh but used touches to soften it, like painting the front door a soft blue.

In 2010 they gutted the kitchen, rearranged appliances and cabinets and added a huge

ABOVE: During one weekend, Sharon Webber and her father replaced the old fireplace with stacked stone for a focal point.

“You don’t have to hire an expensive

interior decorator or buy brand-name furniture to have a pretty house.”

— Sharon Webber island and French doors leading to a new deck.

An upstairs laundry room eliminates the need for going up/down stairs with endless laundry.

Opening the family room’s entry created an expansive feeling. She covered the existing patio, a favorite summertime spot with softball, kickball or tag in the backyard.

“I love the recently remodeled fireplace. My dad ripped out the original green tile. We spent a weekend building the stone fireplace for a beautiful focal point and extra dimension,” Webber said. “Shiplap above the fireplace is 70-year-old, tongue-and-groove pine wood from my first home in Huntsville’s medical district.”

6 Madison Living

LEFT FROM TOP: Webber’s favorite accent is a scripture she painted onto salvaged wood.

Vintage window frames add both depth and whimsy to the staircase landing.

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ABOVE: The dining room has shades of gray, brown and blue.

8 Madison Living

Their kitchen is “action central.” While cooking, Webber can see her daughters in the family room.

Her daughters often complete homework or art projects at the kitchen island.

Since 2013, Webber has painted all rooms, except the bonus room, which “is next since the girls have outgrown the more childish theme. I wanted to create a calming, welcoming atmosphere. I chose blue/grays to create a cooler color scheme.” She also repainted the kitchen island, dining room cabinet, bathroom vanities and several furniture pieces.

“I’ve heard the ‘50 Shades of Grey’ joke about my house,” she said. Most rooms feature comple-

menting grey shades, giving a natural flow. Throw cushions, flowers and rugs bring pops of color.

“I wanted our home to be a place where we could create new, happier memories, and re-decorating was a fun, therapeutic way,” Webber said.

She has mastered refinishing/restoring furniture pieces. “Painting and distressing furniture is a great way to achieve a more eclectic look without breaking the bank,” she said. Her favorite pieces came from thrift stores or other inexpensive locations – even one from the side of the road. The family room’s entertainment center was in a neighbor’s garage. She found bookshelves/cabinets at a local thrift store.

One daughter has Webber’s childhood bed, originally dark cherry but now painted soft linen. Another daughter’s headboard has salvaged barn wood from Sand Mountain where Webber’s parents grew up. Webber displays her grandmother’s hope chest with its original finish for special memories.

Over the kitchen’s French doors, Webber’s favorite accent is a scripture she painted onto old wood, salvaged at curbside. Webb found therapeutic release in painting her favorite verse, Psalm 96:1. “It’s a reminder how far the Lord has brought me and my daughters.”

Her daughters are sixth-grader Olivia, 12; fourth-grader Lauren, 10; and first-grader

Leighanne, 7. They attend their mother’s alma mater and former workplace, Westminster Christian Academy. The family attends Summit Crossing Church and pursue sports in Monrovia.

Webber works as director of clinical services for CareHere LLC, which partners with businesses for onsite wellness centers. “As a single mom, I’m so grateful (to) work from home and meet the demands of single parenting. It’s a blessing I don’t take for granted.”

After living in south Huntsville, Webber moved to Madison when she was 15 years old. “It’s definitely home. I love it here.”

ABOVE FROM TOP: Opening to the family room, the kitchen is ‘action central’ in the Webber home.

Salvaged barn wood from Sand Mountain creates a headboard for this bed.

Madison Living 9

PAGE 11 CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

LET’S EAT

Piper and Leaf serves artisan teas in fruit jars.

Rollin Lobstah satisfies the seafood lovers in the crowd.

Cupcakes, from vendors like Regale Cupcakery and Sugar Belles, are a popular dessert.

Toast of the Town Food Truck

Round-Up draws community

This young woman holds her order from I Love Bacon.

STORY BY GREGG L. PARKER PHOTOGRAPHS BY JEN FOUTS-DETULLEO

O

n the first Friday of the month from April through September, throngs of people converge on one spot in Madison: Food Truck Round-Up in downtown Madison on Main Street.

Young families are one prominent demographic at the event, with many toddlers walking hand-in-hand with mom or dad.

Cellphones in hand, millennials and young couples convene after their respective days at work. Baby boomers and seniors also embrace the concept.

Crave Heat cools the desire for authentic Mexican food with an array of tacos and burritos. Diners rave over the “forearmsized” burritos loaded with marinated beef or chicken, lettuce, “rooster peck” (pico de gallo), cheese and sour cream.

At Doctor BBQ’s truck, the pineapple-habanero glazed pulled pork gives a sweet-and-spicy variation to “whole hog” sandwiches and plates. With headquarters in Gurley, Flat Top Burgers spins their own versions of the classic sandwich with bacon, Cajun spices, sweet bourbon, mushrooms and a breakfast variety. The blackened, candied pineapple promises to make even the finicky diner smile.

Laura Stallcup Samples of Madison finds the food truck experience “unique to have such a variety of foods all in the same location, being made fresh for each order and ever-changing.

You also engage with people you wouldn’t at a brick-and-mortar restaurant, because at those locations you are seated at a private table and sequestered to your party.”

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The Food Truck Round-up in downtown Madison is held on the first Friday of the month in April through September.

Jalapenos and pepper Jack cheese add zest to this burger order.

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Why not! Give it a try at the Food Truck Round-up.

12 Madison Living

Even standing in line has its perks, Samples said. “At an event like this, you stand in line and wait for your food with people you have never met (but) generally end up talking with them and becoming fast friends. It’s not only the food that makes this a special experience.”

I Love Bacon (and who doesn’t?) tempts the crowd with ingenious versions of everyone’s favorite pork product. The “Carlos Santana” places flank steak, ham, sunny-side-up egg, Swiss cheese, fixins – and, of course, bacon – on an oversized brioche bun. “Miami Sound Machine” is a grilled/pressed Cuban sandwich with pork belly, Black Forest ham, Swiss cheese, dill pickles and mustard.

PNC (Professional Ninja Culinarians) Food Truck leans to The Orient with vegetable or duck spring rolls, Korean beef tacos with kimchi slaw and a curry-marinated chicken wrap with crushed peanuts. Serving the divinity of The Sea, Rollin Lobstah satisfies foodies with Connecticut and Maine style lobster rolls, BLT “lobstah” sliders, soft-shell tacos and bisque. The Little Red Lunchbox serves carnival-type treats, including hot dogs and bratwurst, grilled cheese and PBJ sandwiches, shaved ice and candy. And what’s a food outing without dessert? Brain Freeze, a mobile ice-cream truck, and Iceworks tempt guests with the best in ice-cold sweetness. Regale Cupcakery and Sugar Belles top most mini-cakes with sky-high mounds of decadent frosting in all imaginable flavors.

And everyone needs to wet their whistle while browsing the food selections. Recognized by their signature fruit jars, Piper and Leaf serves artisan teas in flavors like Briar Patch Brew, Strawberry Shindig, Summertime Chai and Front Porch special. The Perfect Pucker Lemonade truck doles out everyone’s favorite concoction to relax and enjoy the summertime view.

Active afternoons

HEALTH

YMCA offers afterschool program

W

hen the school day ends, children still need opportunities to learn and engage in meaningful activities. But there are missed opportunities for enrichment for one in five Alabama children left unsupervised after 3 p.m., according to Afterschool Alliance. To help kids reach their full potential, the Hogan Family YMCA offers afterschool programming.

YMCA Afterschool provides a caring, safe environment where all kids can build confidence and friendships.

At the Hogan Y, children can

enjoy active playtime in three swimming pools, basketball gym and climbing tree as well as enrichment activities.

“Kids can participate in games and activities to get them moving and active after school,” said Kim Keeton, director of Youth & Family Services at the Hogan Family YMCA. “This fall, we will add dance and photography club.”

To help families find time to connect, the Hogan Y offers pickup from school and the Homework Room for Afterschool participants.

“By offering pick-up service from the Madison City

Elementary schools, we help parents by providing a place for their kids to come and be active instead of being home alone,” Keeton added. “ We also offer homework help so that the kids can be finished with most of their work and be able to enjoy some quality time with parents after they go home.”

Y Members enjoy savings on the Afterschool program, and

CONTRIBUTED

STORY AND PHOTO BY HEART OF THE VALLEY YMCA

the Y accepts CMA for parents who receive assistance and offers scholarships provided through our Annual Giving Campaign. Y Membership is not required.

For more information, call 256-705-9622.

Madison Living 13

SPORTS

WRITTEN BY GREGG L. PARKER PHOTOGRAPHS BY JEN FOUTS-DETULLEO AND CONTRIBUTED

On a roll

DIXIE DERBY GIRLS

keep the course hot 14 Madison Living

Derby players have plenty of fun but take the sport very seriously.

PAGE 14: Dixie Derby Girls members include Grimm’s Scary Tales (Makynzie Smith), Miss D’Meaner (Tori Young), Punky Bruiser (Cassidy Little), Cleo Wratha (Annie Drees), EllaGator (Elinor Carlson), Whip Squeak (Tammy Spadafore, sponsored by Cross Fit Impulse), Oddtopsy (Erin Little) and BB Gunn (Bianca Little).

“We skated in parking lots, at Lowe Mill and Merrimack Hall.”

— Annie Drees Madison Living 15

ABOVE: A jam is a game play lasting two minutes maximum.

BELOW: The team adheres to Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA) rules.

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M

ADISON – Local women are mastering an often misunderstood, underrated sport. The Dixie Derby Girls team, a roller derby league, is serious about their game.

Dixie Derby Girls league was started in 2004 by two pairs of sisters, Michelle Novsel/Catlyn Lyon and RachelGutierrez/Heather Gutierrez. During 2004-2005, the league “had no home. We skated

in parking lots, tennis courts, at Lowe Mill and Merrimack Hall,” Annie Drees said. Drees is board secretary and events/bookings chairperson.

With growing interest in roller derby in 2005, the league sought training from Texas Lonestar Roller Girls in Austin and Atlanta Roller Girls. “Our diligence was starting to pay off,” Drees said. By 2006, the league had ten players and enough interest to find a home at Roller Time Skate Rink. Their first

bout in April 2006 was against Tragic City Rollers of Birmingham. “DDG won by one point, 90-91.

The rest is history. DDG is still going strong today, 12 years later,” Drees said.

A few players are Kupcake Kamikaze, board president, recruitment chair; Shenanigans, board vice president, publicist; Happy Killmore, sponsorship chair; Cleo Wratha, board secretary, events/ booking chair; Hazard, merchandise; Seer Sin,

head referee; and Coach Mel and Coach Pain.

About 40 people participate as referees, volunteers, non-skating officials and players.

“Roller derby is a game of teamwork and strategy and a contact sport. Having training in agility, strength and endurance is helpful,” Drees said.

“However, many people don’t find this sport until they are in their later years; the team will train you and give guidance to perform safely.”

ABOVE: During a bout, a player breaks ahead of the group to claim “lead jammer status.”

Madison Living 17

ABOVE: The team is open only to females, 19 years and older.

The team adheres to Women’s Flat Track Derby Association rules. Five players in a game (or bout) race on an oval, flat track (skating rink floor) counterclockwise. On television in past decades, roller derby used a banked track, which are cost-prohibitive at $30,000, Drees said.

A one-hour bout has two 30-minute periods. A jam is a game play lasting two minutes maximum.

A player breaks ahead of the group to claim “lead jammer status.”

Player positions one point-scorer jammer behind four blockers. The jammer wears a helmet cover with a star; one blocker or “pivot” wears a helmet with a centered, solid line and can become the team’s jammer. In a “star pass,” the pivot transitions to jammer but must retrieve the jammer’s “star helmet” to score, Drees said.

Ability to play as a team makes or breaks the team. “Blockers serve as walls for opposing jammers. This sport requires extreme awareness ... to tell what’s going on in extreme chaos,” Drees said.

Some competitors are Burn City Rollers, Auburn; Chattanooga Roller Girls; Memphis Roller Derby; Soul City Sirens, Augusta, Ga.; and Hard Knox Roller Girls, Knoxville, Tenn.

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Their practice venues are Roller Time Skate Rink (Sundays, 5-7 p.m.; Wednesdays, 6-9 p.m.) and Carousel Skate Center (Mondays, 7-9 p.m.) in Huntsville. They play bouts at National Speleological Society Conference Center in Huntsville.

The team is open only to females, 19 years and older, and “all shapes and sizes welcome. No experience necessary,” Drees said. Monthly fee is $35; annual fee for insurance is $70. “If you aren’t quite ready to lace up your derby skates, referee and officiating opportunities are open (for men, too) on and off skates.”

A junior league, Rocket City Rebels, accepts boys and girls from 8-18 years old. (rocketcityrebels.com) Dixie Derby Girls, a 501(c)3 organization, donates bout proceeds to local charities. Buying a derby ticket contributes to the community and supporting female athletes. “We really appreciate all the support we get from Madison,” Drees said.

Interested women can attend a practice and use the team’s extra gear and skates available for beginners. The first month is free. For practice schedules, email info@dixiederbygirls.com or visit dixiederbygirls.com or Facebook/Dixie Derby Girls.

Funding focus

EDUCATION

MCS explains how tax revenue benefits education

BY DR. TERRI JOHNSON PRESIDENT, CITY OF MADISON BOARD OF EDUCATION

W

hat do these employees of Madison City Schools have in common: An elementary foreign language teacher, the James Clemens softball coach, the district coordinator of instructional technology and the Discovery Middle School chess team sponsor?

The answer is that all of these employees are paid for by local tax revenues collected for the purpose of education.

Local tax dollars are one of the major factors in distinguishing one school system from another. Every school system receives

federal, state and local also pay for innovative revenues. Federal dolprograms, capital projects, the superintendent lars pay for very speand other district wide cific programs, such as personnel. In FY2014, DOD Grants, special Madison City ranked education services and 84th in state funding school lunches. State Dr. Terri out of 138 Alabama dollars pay for salaries and benefits of teach- Johnson public school districts, 131st in federal funding ers and administrators, instructional support and trans- and 16th in local funding.

Local tax revenues come portation. There is virtually no flexibility in how state and fed- from property taxes and sales taxes. Districts across the state eral dollars are spent.

Local revenues supple- vary widely in the amount of ment the dollars where sales and property taxes they state and federal monies receive. This year, our system cover only a portion of the suffered a cut of $1.7 million expenses. Local revenues due to the Limestone Coun-

ty tax issue. We also gained about 200 students from the Limestone County side of Madison.

Without replenishing the lost revenue and with more students being added to our system each year, we are reaching a turning point in our city. Our Board of Education continues to work with our stakeholders and elected officials to find a way to address these challenges because we know our residents moved to Madison because of its excellent schools.

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EDUCATION

Eric Terrell has taught, coached and handled administrative duties at Madison’s four secondary schools.

WRITTEN BY

GREGG L. PARKER PHOTOGRAPHS BY

JEN FOUTS-DETULLEO

Schooled

Eric Terrell emphasizes bond among family, school and community

E

ric Terrell guides the student population and faculty as principal at Discovery Middle School. He returned to Discovery after teaching, coaching and handling administrative duties at Madison’s four secondary schools.

For his entire career, Terrell has taught in Madison City Schools. “The experiences that I had as a teacher, coach and assistant principal, along with the opportunity to help open James Clemens High School, have truly prepared me to be a principal,” he said.

22 Madison Living

....

In his first teaching assignment, at Discovery he taught special education classes and coached.

Then at Liberty Middle School, Terrell was head football and basketball coach and a special education teacher. “Following Liberty, I went to Bob Jones High School as a special education teacher, head ninth-grade football coach and assistant head coach for varsity football,” he said.

Eventually, Terrell worked there as an assistant principal.

After assisting in James Clemens’ opening, he served at the new school as an assistant principal and athletic director. “Now, I have come full circle as the principal at Discovery,” he said. “Discovery will always have a high commitment to academics and a high expectation to exceed academically.

ABOVE: Principal Eric Terrell answers a question from students at Discovery Middle School.

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“Discovery will always

have a high commitment to academics and a high expectation to exceed academically. I want to pair that same expectation in developing the whole child/student.”

— Eric Terrell I want to pair that same expectation in developing the whole child/student.”

Terrell said he believes Alabama’s major needs in education are funding and reversing a negative perception of public education.

That perception and the funding challenges have caused a decline in students pursuing education degrees. “The perception that the profession of education is unattractive has to be changed,” Terrell said. “Students need a strong bond between family, school and community, as well as skilled teachers who hold high expectations. Teachers need tools and professional development to personalize learning in the classroom and the support to continuously improve their practice.”

During his career, Terrell recalls one student he helped to graduate over a five-year time frame. “The student faced many obstacles, such as failing classes, suspension, trouble outside school, not wanting to come to school and a feeling of no self-value,” he said. However, “we eventually made it, and the student received his diploma. About four years later, the student called me and apologized for all of the problems he caused while in school but thanked me for not giving up on him.”

The student told Terrell, “‘Because of you I have a job, a house and a little girl that I’m able to take care of because you believed in me and wouldn’t let me fail.’ That was a very special moment in my career,” Terrell said.

LEFT: The family includes Eric and LaTerra Terrell and their children, 7-year-old Kelsey and 4-year-old Kylee.

24 Madison Living

Terrell earned a bachelor’s degree in secondary education at Alabama A&M University and a master’s degree in educational administration from Grand Canyon University. He grew up in Hamilton.

A Huntsville native, his wife LaTerra works for a federal information technology contractor.

Their daughters are 7-year-old Kelsey, a second-

grader at Horizon Elementary School, and 4-year-old Kylee, who attends pre-kindergarten.

The Terrells attend New Life Christian Praise and Worship Center in Huntsville. When he has free time, Terrell works on computers and watches movies. “My family loves game night and traveling,” he said.

ABOVE: Eric Terrell believes Alabama’s major needs in education are funding and reversing a negative perception of public education.

Madison Living 25

GIVING BACK

Dr. Marilyn Salda-Ligon with North Alabama HomeCare gives personal, attentive care to elderly individuals.

Dedicated doctor

Dr. Marilyn Salda-Ligon volunteers locally, internationally

D

r. Marilyn Salda-Ligon with North Alabama HomeCare gives personal, attentive care to elderly individuals. Along with her medical practice, Ligon devotes time and financial support to help those people in need.

North Alabama HomeCare is a primary-care medical group practice of physicians and nurse practitioners who provide onsite, medical care to 26 Madison Living

homebound residents and those in senior-living communities throughout North Alabama.

NAHC’s staff has specialists in geriatrics, internal medicine and family medicine. Patients who suffer from cognitive impairments benefit from in-home care by remaining in their own familiar environment.

As NAHC medical director, Ligon specializes in family medicine and completed residency at

As NAHC Medical Director, Dr. Ligon specializes in family medicine and completed residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB).

WRITTEN BY GREGG L. PARKER PHOTOGRAPHS BY JEN FOUTS-DETULLEO Madison Living 27

28 Madison Living

the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She is board certified with American Board of Family Medicine.

Volunteering for others is an important component of Ligon’s life. Along with her work as a physician, Ligon volunteers for worthy causes as close by as Madison and Huntsville, along with assistance to charities worldwide. She supports the Medical Outreach Missions Foundation Inc. in the Philippines. Also, she endorses the Noble Ligon Medical Foundation in the Philippines that awards a medical scholarship to a worthy recipient to study in the field of medicine.

In addition, Ligon currently serves on the Infectious Disease Board at Crestwood Medical Center. She is an active supporter for American Cancer Society.

In outreach for her patients, Ligon completes courtesy visits for in-patients and communicates important details and facts to patients’ relatives or caregivers.

Experienced, board-certified clinicians have gained special expertise in caring for patients with cognitive impairment. “On every patient visit, they spend as much time needed to diagnose and treat medical problems, support the patient’s fam-

ily and preserve quality of life – for patient and caregivers,” Ligon said.

Doctors and clinicians keep a direct line of communication with families and thus eliminate any chance for miscommunications. Likewise, families can consult physicians about a patient.

“Family satisfaction increases by having direct access to their loved one’s physician,” Ligon said.

North Alabama HomeCare offers comprehensive in-home exams with acute care visits and annual physical exam. Employees will review medications and monitor refills, along with coordinating Home Health referrals. NAHC patients can receive vaccines for flu, pneumonia and shingles.

NAHC coordinates ancillary services, including labs, X-rays and specialist referrals. NAHC also offers optometry care by a board-certified optometrist.

NAHC serves as medical director for Merrill Gardens of Madison and backup physician at Morningside of Madison. Ligon’s private clinic, North Alabama Family Medicine, is located in Madison.

LEFT: Ligon completes courtesy visits for in-patients and communicates important details and facts to patients’ relatives or caregivers.

For more information, new patients can call 256-348-5147, email northalabamahomecare@gmail.com or visit northalabamahomecare.com

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Explore the forces of energy and nature through a variety of activities, including feeling the vibrations and sounds of an earthquake!

The exhibit also includes a working storm shelter and the Rocket Center’s new Magic Planet® interactive, spherical display where guests can see hurricanes in motion, airplanes navigating the globe and the Earth’s climate at work.

Summer Smart Play is a preview of a brand new science and engineering gallery coming in 2018 to the main museum!

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RocketCenterUSA Madison Living 29

ART & CULTURE

Haope nd

happiness

Layne Johnson: A smile that precedes her

WRITTEN BY

GREGG L. PARKER PHOTOGRAPHS BY

JEN FOUTS-DETULLEO AND TAMMY MILLER

Layne Johnson has played guitar since she was seven years old.

30 Madison Living

L

ike thousands of fellow Madison millennials, Layne Johnson embraced her college years and is launching a career. Yet, few peers have dealt so gracefully with a traumatic loss in life.

“I want my life to be full of life and love and laughter and family and music. Even though I don’t know what that looks like now, I’m trusting in the Lord to lead me there,” Johnson said.

In 2012, she graduated from Bob Jones High School. Arts and math/physics classes prepared her well for college, as did marching band with director/mentor Keith Anderson. “Calculus with Kyna Schutzbach and physics with Greg Duvall prepared me for the technical side, giving me a small taste of fast-paced college classroom,” she said. Mary Davis and Dwayne Craft’s drama instruction helped her step from her comfort zone.

LEFT FROM TOP: Layne has the beautiful smile of her late mother, Tammy Miller.

“I want my life to be full of life and love and laughter and family and music,” Layne said.

Madison Living 31

Layne has sung and played acoustic guitar with youth ensembles and worship teams at local churches and at Mississippi State University.

32 Madison Living

Choosing a college further “forced me to step out of my comfort zone,” Johnson said. Most fellow Bob Jones graduates enrolled at Auburn University and University of Alabama. “At Mississippi State University, I only knew one other person when I started as a freshman.”

“I completely fell in love with MSU’s atmosphere and sense of community. I couldn’t wait to join that family as a student. I wanted to go somewhere off the beaten path,” she added.

With her engineering major, Johnson served as publicist for Society of Women Engineers, managing social media, photography and advertising. She also volunteered as a mentor for freshmen in electrical and computer engineering and advised during introductory classes ... “or something as trivial as Starkville’s best restaurants.”

With an MSU Maroon Band scholarship, she continued playing mellophone, as she did three years at Bob Jones. During concert season, she switched to oboe.

Never will she forget her first pregame show in MSU band. “I was so overwhelmed by how many people were in the stadium and by the incredible journey I had taken to get there,” Johnson said. Also, her cowbell fell off its harness during pre-game.

While at MSU, Johnson faced the traumatic death of her mother, Tammy Miller. “I was devastated. She had been so sick so long, I had accepted whatever the Lord was going to do,” she said. “I wasn’t angry, but I did miss her like crazy. I still do,” Layne said.

“Sometimes, I would question why something like this would happen to the most incredible person I’ve ever known. But I’ve been able to see how much her life has touched those around her.”

Johnson said Miller “loved the people around her so fiercely, even unto death. Mom was also so open with her struggle ... never once did her faith waver,” helping people face their own fears. “She was so popular. Many people knew of her illness and watched her go through ups and downs of her cancer.”

“If I can make it through life with even half the amount of strength that Mom had, then I’ll be set,” she said. “But the best part ... it wasn’t even her strength. It was all Jesus. We all have the opportunity to tap into that same strength.”

Johnson embraces her mother’s legacy in music.

“I’ve played guitar since age seven,” Johnson said. “I learn things on my own or pick up from friends or my stepdad Bobby Miller.”

She has sung and played acoustic guitar with youth ensembles and worship teams at CrossPointe Church, Asbury United Methodist Church, Storehouse House of Prayer and MSU Wesley Foundation.

RIGHT: Layne earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering at Mississippi State University.

She led worship at Starkville retreats and entertained for fraternity parties and local bars.

Her father is Clay Johnson; her brother Preston attends Bob Jones. Her stepfather Bobby Miller and step-siblings Audrey and Morgan live in Madison.

Her stepmother is Gwynn Johnson. “My other sister is Kristin and my other step-siblings are Jill and Danny.”

With an MSU Maroon Band scholarship, Layne continued playing mellophone, as she did three years at Bob Jones.

For a few months, she has dated Caleb, a MSU senior. They met in a Wesley praise team. “So we’ve just started doing the long-distance thing.”

She has accepted a job at Dynetics and has chosen to live in downtown Huntsville for “a change in scenery from Madison,” her lifetime home.

For now, she will build a career and perform with Church of the Highlands’ worship team. In 20 years, she hopes to have a family and work as an engineering manager.

“I really just hope that I’m happy – whatever that looks like,” Layne said.

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Madison Living 33

Madison Chamber of Commerce NewsletterCity

Madison Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

STORY & PHOTOS BY MADISON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Madison Chamber of Commerce has been on the move celebrating Grand Openings & Ribbon Cuttings, Business After Hours and the Monthly Luncheon.

We were also proud to be a part of the Mayor’s and the Chamber’s Scholarship Programs, providing college funding to four deserving local High School Seniors.

For more information on chamber events, membership or sponsorship opportunities, visit madisonALchamber.com or call 256-325-8317. Visit the Chamber on Facebook at Madison Chamber of Commerce (MCC) or on Twitter @MadisonALcc.

Homewood Suites at the Village of Providence on their Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting.

Pujan Patel accepting his scholarship at James Clemens High School.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY

MADISON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting at Hilltop Ridge-DSLD Homes.

Madison Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Madison Chamber Executive Director Pam Honeycutt and $1000 Award winner Tristan Guy.

The Homewood Suites Team with Mascot Lewis the Duck.

Madison Chamber of Commerce May Luncheon Sponsor Amazing Meet the team at Legacy Chapel Funeral Home! Visit Lash Studio. Pictured is Missy them at16 Hughes Road in Madison.

March.

Madison Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours at Madison Chapel Executive Director Pam Funeral Home. Pictured are owners Kevin and Honeycutt and Homewood Shannon Marsh.

Suites Mascot Lewis the Duck.

Lockheed Martin Mayor’s 2016 $5000 Scholarship Winner Bob Jones High School Senior Jayla Crump.

Mayor Troy Trulock, Lockheed Martin and the Madison Chamber of Commerce presenting scholarship money to Pujan Patel and Tristan Guy at James Clemens High School.

MCC 2016 $1000 Award Winner Bob Jones High School Senior Xavier Fitzgerald.

Madison Chamber of Commerce May Luncheon at Cork & Crust Pizzeria + Wine Bar with guest speaker Daniel Kasambira, Executive Director for the Hogan Family YMCA.

Madison Living 35

Food Truck Rally kicks off summer

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Hosted by Madison City Parks and Recreation, this weekend’s Food Truck Rally in downtown was a huge hit among the locals. With everything from lobster to Mexican cuisine, there were both food and fun for the whole family.

Record Photos / Tucker Pearson 1. Melina, Joelle, Makayla and Randy Lilavois 2. Brayden Lond, Marley Goree, and Leslie Long

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3. Matthew Parkes and Breeanna Bennett 4. Suzanne, Stephanie and Amanda 5. Adithi Madhwesh, Vatsal Patel, Manishkumar Bhagat

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PHOTOGRAPHS BY TUCKER PEARSON

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6. Cynthia Pellet and Jennifer Jackson

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7. Caitlynn Mills, Chelsea Alvarado, Kelly Johnson and Gayle Milam 8. Wesley Caissie, Bernoulli Caissie, and John Didio 9. Sarah Turbe and Julie Blair 10. Lexi Wagner and Branwen Apgwilym 11. Amy and Pamela 12. Alex Miller and Argenia McGennis

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PHOTOGRAPHS BY TUCKER PEARSON

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13. Brooks, Alexandra and Micha

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14. Lorianna Fortenberry and Josiah Mullins 15. Daniel Driven and Hannah Farmer 16. Tiffany and Jeff Sinclair 17. Timothy and Tekeyla Burton 18. Chris and Sierra Humphrey 19. Noah Sandstrom and Kiersten Thorum 20. Rachel, Coulter and Preston

PHOTOGRAPHS BY TUCKER PEARSON

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Marketplace Madison Living • 256.772.6677

AFFORDABLE CONCRETE •Driveways & Sidewalks •Patios, Porch’s & Garages •Pea Gravel •Decorative Concrete •Concrete Stamping & Staining •Pressure Washing & Sealing •Repairs & Restoration References & Photos upon request 256-244-6192 $25 OFF SPRING TUNEUP with this ad! $59 Service Calls FREE 1st & 2nd Opinions Military/Senior Discounts Alabama Comfort Experts, LLC Call 256-469-2415 www.al-ace.com ANN’S ALTERATIONS 600 Limestone Street, Suite #6, Hartselle, AL 256-773-4213 Welder Training Coming Soon!

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Greg Privett Agency of Horace Mann greg.privett@horacemann. com 256-301-3199 We repair any appliance!

We Pick up Used Appliances & Riding Lawn Mowers!

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In Hartselle, AL 410 Main St. W, Suite D 256-778-3244 Check us out on Facebook!

From around the house clean-up to large scale waste service. We provide a complete range of waste services at competitive rates.

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FREE Standard Installation Limited Time Offer!

Ask about FREE router!

Call 800-266-4409 www.pbsinternet.com Smith Motors Two locations on Hwy 31, Decatur Lot #1 256-350-9938 Lot #2 256-350-9937 smithmotorsautosales.com SURVEILLANCE CAMERA MONITORED 24 HOURS A DAY STORAGE BUILDINGS For Rent, All Sizes.

Russellville, AL. We Accept Credit Cards. Call Jerry 256-332-9253 or 256-412-5392 Mon-Fri. 8am5pm, Sat. 8am-12pm Town Hill Mini Storage 160 Units Vacancies All Sizes 256-332-9928 Become a Dental Asst. in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website capstonedentalassisting.com or call (205) 561-8118 and get your career started!

HOMES FOR SALE Financing Available (wac) Low Down Payments Sheffield, Hackleburg, Town Creek, Courtland, Moulton & Falkville Call Matt 1-855-847-6808 Come Home to Holiday Plaza Apartments (Behind Foodland) Equal Housing Opportunity 256-332-2960 KDC Properties, Inc. 256-355-9090 P.O. Box 987 Decatur, AL 35602 kdcpropertiesinc.com J. Wesley Cain, AL #286; TN #6499 New 6’ PowerLine Tiller: $1,600 New 4’ Deep-V Bush Hog: $750

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MIXER TRUCK DRIVERS NEEDED Now hiring full-time CDLqualified mixer truck drivers. Must have good drivingrecord and pass drug-screening.

Benefits: •Highly-competitive pay •Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance •Matched 401K •Paid Vacation/Life Insurance Apply: 4200 Stringfield Road Huntsville, AL 35806 Caregivers & Nurses ALWAYS THERE IN-HOME CARE Immediate need, Flexible hours, Benefits available.

Call for more information 256-539-1400 www. alwaysthereinc.com American Proteins, Inc. Hiring Drivers Home Daily, Great benefits package (including: health/ dental/ vision insurance), paid vacation and holidays, 401K retirement plan. Need Class A CDL with tanker endorsement, one year verifiable driving experience.

Contact Jamie Sewell: 256-970-6133 or Ronnie Demonia: 256-970-6109 EOE

Now Hiring Drivers Carry Transit • Decatur, AL Good Pay • Excellent Benefits & Home Time Must Have 18mos OTR Experience & Class A-CDL w/ Tanker Endorsement Apply: www.CarryTransit. com Caregivers & CNAs: Want a job you Love?

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DRIVERS WANTED •Experienced Class-A CDL Drivers •Safe & Clean Driving Record Required •Competitive Salary Package Call 205-935-8668 Love Pets? Love People?

How would you like to educate pet parents about customized pet nutrition and other fun pet products?

We are looking for positive and motivated people who love pets to open up the Alabama area!

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Full or Part-Time! Own your own businesswhile making profit with a purpose.

For more information, email healthypetpro@gmail.com Burger King Hiring General, Assistant & Shift Managers Top Pay/Monthly Bonus/ Vacation/ Medical Benefits.

3yrs fast food experience required. Fax resume: 334-649-1112 or apply at: www.joinbkalabama.com NOW HIRING HVAC & Electrical technicians. Competitive pay and great benefits.

Experience required.

Email resume to wendy@shoalsmpe.com or stop by to fill out an application. 15891 Hwy 43, Russellville, AL 35653 SERVICE TECH Accepting applications for service tech positions. Experience, References, Clean MVR Required.

Call 256-356-4427 Ext. #33 Sunshine Homes

NOW HIRING! •Cooks •Servers •General Manager Apply in person: The Gridiron 103 2nd Ave. SE, Downtown Decatur Hiring Installers for Decatur Location!

Responsibilities: Install according to work order and guidelines, Follow all OSHA and Company Safety policies/procedures.

Requirements: HS diploma or equivalent, Valid DL, 18+ years old, Overtime/ weekends as required, Outof-town travel as required, 0-6 months experience in Construction/Insulation/ Trades/etc., 1-3 years construction experience preferred, Pass drug/ background screenings.

Come Join Our Team Apply online: www. truteam.com or in person: 241 Beltline Drive Decatur AL 35601 OTR DRIVERS WANTED 24 years or older. Hazmat preferred but not required. Full benefit package available.

Pneumatic tank equipment.

Dry bulk hauling. $500 SIGN-ON BONUS HOME EVERY OTHER WEEKEND Apply Online: vernonmilling.com 800-753-1993 A New Career Starts Today RN & LPN Positions Available Full Time or PRN, 12 hour shifts with every other weekend off, Excellent Benefits. EOE. Apply in person!

Woodland Village Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center, 1900 Olive St. SW, Cullman, AL 35056 256-739-1430 Now Leasing HALLMARK CRESTMOOR APARTMENTS 1, 2 and 3 Bedroom Units Available W/D Hookups•Pest Control Water/Garbage/Sewer Included 1060 Mountain View Road | Hartselle (256)773-7072

Madison Living 1

Special moment.

Special care.

Featuring

– Golden Hour Skin-to-Skin for vaginal and c-section deliveries – Continued breastfeeding support after discharge – New Labor and Delivery suites

Babies and their families are our passion. Before you even check into your room, we are preparing to make your birth experience the best it can be. Your nurses, obstetrician and pediatrician carefully plan for all of your needs and wishes. Your motherbaby team at Madison Hospital delivers special care for your special moment.

– Hugs security system

Call for a tour (256) 265-7296 Visit madisonALhospital.org/services/maternity for more information on how we make birth days special.

Proud Partners with Madison OB Associates and Madison Clinic for Women