Issuu

July 2017

Brennans find their

Happy Place

Toothy tranquility

Dennis James pursues

new ventures

features MANAGEMENT Randy Cox Publisher EDITORIAL Alison James Editor Gregg Parker Staff Writer Joshua Berry Photographer MARKETING Ashley Davis Marketing Consultant Customer Service Jessica Forshey Customer Service PRODUCTION Michael Kurov Art Director Ludmila Dyomina Irina Roina Design Madison Living P.O. Box 859, Madison, AL 35758 Advertising Inquires 256.772.6677 Madison Living is published monthly by Madison Publications, LLC.

home happy place

let’s eat baby’s first birthday party

Community needs versus wants

health Toothy tranquility

education Exploring new ventures

in the biz big green bus

CHAMBER NEWSLETTER

OUT AND ABOUT

Madison Living 3

home

Diane Brennan enjoys sharing the beautiful outdoor space husband Craig created.

Happy

WRITTEN BY GREGG L. PARKER PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOSHUA BERRY

place

Patio addition extends Brennansâ€™ outdoor life

bout 20 years ago, Craig and Diane Brennan built their new home in the Edgewater neighborhood. Over the years, they have refined their outdoor living space to transform it into a comfortable, attractive retreat. “My husband designed the house and has also designed and completed several of the updates and additions,” Diane said. “We have updated each room and added the back porch and outdoor kitchen.” The home’s exterior is built in Cape Cod style of architecture. The exterior is mostly brick. “My furnishings are a mixture of bargains and antiques – casual with a definite leaning toward my Italian heritage,” she said. Holding special significance, a pew was salvaged from a small country church in upstate New York, where Diane grew up. “Several other pieces have memories attached to them,” she said. “I am the decorator. It is what I love – to make a home for people to enjoy.” “Our favorite features are, indeed, the outdoor living spaces my husband has created,” Diane added. “I like to think of it as a place where we invite people to gather and share the beauty.” In recent weeks, the Brennans have hosted a baby shower, a large birthday party for family and a luncheon for all of the people enrolled in Diane’s yoga class at the YMCA. They can use their large outdoor combo of living room/

kitchen about ten months out of year in comfort. Solid, squared white columns with pediments support a raised ceiling of narrow planks with a muted, natural stain to contrast in color and add to the outdoorsy feel. A massive fireplace and hearth can warm the living space during chilly fall evenings and late winter mornings for coffee. The fireplace and nearby galley

ABOVE: The Brennans built their home about 20 years ago in the Edgewater neighborhood.

Madison Living 5

clockwise from top left: A massive outdoor fireplace warms the patio on chilly mornings. The Brennans invite guests for full-course meals cooked in their outdoor galley kitchen. The patio is a peaceful space. A cascading fountain beautifies the backyard.

right: Their outdoor living spaces are favorite spots for the Brennans.

6 Madison Living

kitchen are covered in stacked stone. The Brennans can prepare full-course meals with an oversized grill, stove and under-counter refrigerator, along with ample storage. A comfy rattan sofa and chairs allow guests to sit and view the ceiling-mounted television. Graceful fronds of Boston ferns add another natural element and soften the lines of stacked stone. In the back yard, a fountain built into a slope cascades on three levels with a formation of stacked stone, pavers, river rock and boulders. The garden slope has in-ground steps, rock features, earthen pottery and perennial plants like hosta, nandina and liriope and other various ornamental grasses. Snowball bushes boast large, white masses of blooms. Along with their summer flowering, crepe myrtles add textural interest in all seasons. Lantana, begonias, geranium and impatients add bursts of color in both sun and shade. Diane tends to the lawn and its flowers and shrubs. “It’s another enjoyable part of my life. The mowing and gardening are great ways to get outside and enjoy where we live.”

The Brennans both are originally from New York, “but my husband was raised here. When Craig was offered a transfer as an electrical engineer with General Electric, we knew it was right for us,” she said. Currently, Craig works for Dynetics. They have raised two sons and now enjoy their grandchildren. “My career has been at Madison Drugs for the past several years, and I own and operate Madison Christian Life Coach LLC,” Diane said.

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Let’s eat

Baby’s First Birthday Party Recipes to appeal to the adults at a milestone birthday or any special occasion

Joyce Giffin operates It’s Thyme to Cook cooking school. For more information call 256-527-2168, email joycegiffin@bellsouth.net or visit itsthymetocook.com. 8 Madison Living

Creamy Deviled Eggs Original recipe by Joyce Giffin INGREDIENTS: 12 eggs 2 ounces cream cheese, room temperature 1/3 to 1/2 cup Hellman’s or Duke’s mayonnaise 2 teaspoons yellow mustard 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon white pepper 2 teaspoons dill pickle juice or white vinegar 6 pimento-stuffed green olives (optional garnish) 1. Place eggs in a large saucepan or Dutch oven and cover with cold water to 2 inches above the top of the eggs. Bring to a boil, turn heat to low and simmer two minutes. Remove from heat, cover and let stand ten minutes. Pour hot water from eggs and run under cold water for two to three minutes. Cover with cold water and add two cups ice cubes. Let stand five to ten minutes. 2. Gently crack eggs and peel under the cold water. Dry with a paper towel. Cut eggs in half lengthwise with a sharp knife. Carefully remove yolks to a large plate and mash fine with a fork. Place egg white on an egg platter or a lettucelined serving plate. 3. In a medium mixing bowl, beat cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Add egg yolks, 1/3 cup mayonnaise, mustard, salt, white pepper and pickle juice

or white vinegar. Mix until smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings; add additional mayonnaise for preferred consistency, if needed. 4. Place egg yolk mixture into one corner of a gallonsize zip-top bag. Remove air from bag and zip closed; cut a small opening in the corner of the bag. Pipe the filling into egg whites. Garnish with 1/2 stuffed green olive, cut horizontally. Makes 12 servings.

Melon Kabobs with Spicy Lime-Mint Syrup

Cranberry Chutney

Original recipe by Joyce Giffin

Adapted from “Southern Living,” by Joyce Giffin

INGREDIENTS: 1 small cantaloupe, washed, halved and seeded 1 small honeydew, washed, halved and seeded 1/2 cup water 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper Zest of 1 small lime Juice of 1 small lime 1-2 mint leaves 12 (6-inch) wooden skewers 1. Make 1-inch melon balls with both halves of the cantaloupe and honeydew. Set aside. 2. Place water, sugar, cayenne, zest and juice from the lime in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil and boil for one minute while stirring or until sugar is dissolved. Reduce heat to low and simmer for five minutes. Remove from heat, add mint leaves and cool syrup completely. 3. Dip a melon ball into syrup, thread onto skewer and repeat, threading three melon balls onto each skewer, alternating with one cantaloupe in the middle of one pick and 1 honeydew in the middle of another pick. Arrange on a platter in alternating patterns. Chill and serve. Makes 12 kabobs, six servings.

INGREDIENTS:

2 (8-oz.) cans crushed pineapple, drained 1 (16-oz.) can whole-berry cranberry sauce 1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and fine diced 3 green onions, chopped 1. Stir together pineapple and next four ingredients in a small saucepan over medium heat and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring often, five minutes or until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in jalapeno and green onions. Remove to a small serving dish, cover and chill until ready to serve. Yield: three cups. Note: This chutney is delicious served with roasted chicken, turkey or pork tenderloin. Can be made in advance and lasts for several days in the refrigerator.

Madison Living 9

Herb-Butter Roasted Turkey Breast Sandwiches with Cranberry Chutney An original recipe by Joyce Giffin INGREDIENTS: 1 roasted turkey breast, (3-4 lbs., sliced) 1 recipe cranberry chutney 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, room temperature 12 slices provolone or Swiss cheese 12 red or green lettuce leaves 12 ciabatta rolls 1. Split rolls lengthwise to, but not through, the edge, leaving top attached. Spread top and bottom of roll with softened butter. Spread bottom with cranberry chutney; add turkey breast slices, cheese and lettuce. 2. Wrap sandwich in a parchment paper sleeve, leaving top open, and tie sandwich around the middle with kitchen twine, if desired, or serve unwrapped. Makes 12 sandwiches. Note: A good quality, deli-sliced turkey or sliced roasted pork tenderloin could be substituted.

Herb-Butter Roasted Turkey Breast Original recipe by Joyce Giffin INGREDIENTS:

1 skin-on, bone-in turkey breast, split in half (3-4 lbs.) 1/2 cup (1 stick) softened butter 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves 2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper 3 whole, washed carrots, skin on 3 ribs celery 1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Mix butter, thyme, rosemary and granulated garlic until blended. Gently loosen skin from turkey breast and rub butter under skin and all over outside of breasts. Season with salt and pepper. 2. Place carrots and celery side-by-side in a large, rimmed baking sheet and arrange turkey breast halves, skin side up, on top of the vegetables. 3. Roast turkey breasts, rotating pan halfway through cooking time, until skin is crisp and golden and instantread thermometer inserted into thickest part of breast reads 160 degrees, approximately 6075 minutes. If skin browns too quickly, tent with foil during roasting. 4. Remove turkey from oven, tent with foil and let rest 15-20 minutes. Residual heat should bring internal temperature to 165 degrees. Remove breasts from bone, slice and serve. Makes eight servings.

Pickles These are fresh sweet refrigerator pickles. Original recipe by Joyce Giffin INGREDIENTS: 1/2 cup cider vinegar 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon turmeric 1/4 teaspoon celery seeds 1 teaspoon pickling spice 2 teaspoons fresh dill 1 small clove minced garlic (optional) 2 medium Kirby cucumbers 1. Wash cucumbers and cut the stem end from the cucumber to the seed line. Thinly slice cucumbers. Set aside. 2. Combine first seven ingredients in a small bowl and mix well until sugar dissolves. Place cucumbers in a small glass bowl or quart-size zip-top bag; add vinegar mixture and toss to coat. Refrigerate three to four hours or overnight. Pickles hold well in refrigerator for three to four days. Makes two cups.

10 Madison Living

Celebration Cupcakes Adapted from Food Section, “Palm Beach Post,” by Joyce Giffin INGREDIENTS: Cake 1 (18.25-oz.) package plain white cake mix 1 cup whole milk 1 stick butter, melted 3 large eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla 24 medium cupcake liners Frosting 6 oz. white chocolate, coarsely chopped

1 (8-oz.) package cream cheese, room temperature 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter, room temperature 1 teaspoon vanilla 2 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted 1/2 cup seedless raspberry jam 1 tablespoon water or 1 tablespoon Liqueur Framboise (raspberry) 1 pint fresh raspberries, rinsed and drained

For cake: 1. Preheat oven to 350 degress. Line two muffin pans with cupcake liners. 2. Place cake mix, milk, melted butter, eggs and vanilla in a large mixing bowl. Blend with an electric mixer on low speed for one minute. Stop the machine and scrape down the bowl sides with a rubber spatula. Increase mixer speed to medium and beat two minutes more, scraping down bowl sides again, if needed. Divide the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tins and bake 18-20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into a center cupcake comes out clean. Remove to wire racks and cool in pans ten minutes. Remove cupcakes from pan to racks and cool completely. 3. Heat raspberry jam and water or liqueur in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and cool. Using a sharp paring knife, cut a small plug from the center of each cupcake. Spoon in 1-2 teaspoons of raspberry jam and reinsert cake plug. Frost cupcakes and top with a fresh raspberry.

For frosting: 1. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and cream cheese until well combined. 2. Melt the white chocolate in the microwave oven at 30-second intervals, stirring after each until completely melted and smooth. Cool slightly and blend into the butter mixture on low for 30 seconds. 3. Add the vanilla and confectioners’ sugar and blend on low speed for 30 seconds more. Increase speed to medium and beat until the frosting is fluffy, one minute more. Makes 24 cupcakes.

Madison Living 11

health

YMCA offers free membership to military families STORY AND PHOTOS FROM HOGAN FAMILY YMCA

Military life isn’t called “service” for nothing – many times, a family’s needs come second, while the needs of our nation come first. The Hogan Family YMCA recognizes the special stress on individuals and families that can occur because of frequent moves to unfamiliar towns, deployment and financial strains on the family budget. Often, military families seek out their local YMCA. The Hogan Family Y supports military families and individuals with programs that improve their well-being and provide opportunities to connect with others. “When their loved one is away from home, military families face many challenges,”

said Daniel Kasambira, Hogan Family YMCA executive director. “The Y has numerous ways we can help, whether it’s providing a place where kids can make new friends and have a sense of belonging or providing opportunities for adults to maintain a healthy lifestyle, have some much-needed time to themselves while the kids play in Child Watch or make new friends of their own.” Military families can receive free membership to the Hogan Y while a spouse is deployed. Qualified service members may receive free membership for themselves before and after deployment. Military serving locally may take advantage of special membership rates. Gifts

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12 Madison Living

to the YMCA Annual Giving Campaign fund the program. The Hogan Family YMCA offers scholarships for Y membership through its Military Outreach program. Redstone Federal Credit Union provides

funding as the Armed Forces Family Scholarship sponsor. To learn more about the Y and programming that supports military families, visit ymcahuntsville.org/military-outreach.

community

Written by

GREGG L. PARKER photographs BY

JOSHUA BERRY

The Clark family: (front, seated) Tina and William, (back, standing) Gerald and Phillip.

Needs versus wants Gerald Clark determines top concerns for city council

Madison Living 13

n representing District 6 on Madison City Council, Gerald Clark weighs the pros versus cons, benefits versus costs before making his final decision on city issues. Since the 1990s, Clark had been watching Madison politics during “a key time with issues that shaped the city’s growth and character. I wanted to make a difference with road improvements, economic development and the school system.” He was first elected to council in 2012. “Responding to calls, questions and comments from citizens was first and foremost the important issue,” Clark said. He said he believes a councilman must balance needs and wants for the city’s future betterment. District 6 covers the eastern perimeter of Madison. Builders developed these neighborhoods primarily between 1960-1990. To determine the Top Three needs for District 6, Clark listened to “voices of the citizens” and has found the following: • Economic development – City leaders are working to hire a person dedicated to this need, Clark said. • Traffic, which was “also an issue during the previous term. A transportation study is underway” for this concern. “The challenge will be in funding traffic issues that most benefit our city.” Clark said he hopes the city can tie traffic improvements to retail/ commercial enterprises.

14 Madison Living

• Relationship between mayor and city council, which is “much better than it was in the last term,” Clark said. At Auburn University, he earned a bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture. During high school, Clark studied forestry, fisheries and wildlife management in the Pacific Northwest. During his last semester at Auburn, he studied architecture in Europe.

ABOVE: An accomplished visual artist, Gerald Clark stands by one of his landscape paintings. bElow: Gerald and Tina Clark relax in the lush atmosphere of their back lawn.

ABOVE: Shiny gold koi swim in a pool in the Clark’s back yard. left: A stone alligator adds an ominous flair to the Clarks’ koi pond.

Tina serves as president of the Madison Arts Council. The Clarks’ church home is Madison church of Christ. When he finds spare time, Gerald skis, swims, fishes, gardens and searches for the perfect barbecue recipe. An accomplished visual artist, he has painted landscapes for Christmas Card Lane.

Gerald and wife Tina have always lived in Madison County. They moved to Madison in February 2009 for educational opportunities for their children, along with the town’s atmosphere and proximity to work, church and activities. From 1990-2003, he worked at Smith Engineering. He then started working for Civil Solutions and became a partner in 2005. “Civil Solutions sold to Goodwyn Mills and Cawood, where I currently work,” he said. He has worked 25-plus years with municipalities in successful ventures, along with the pitfalls. Clark said he has learned “to recognize opportunities and stay away from the less desirable ideas.” His wife works as a contractor, supporting engineering processes with Moseley Technical Services at DRS Technologies in Huntsville. “Tina and I have two sons, Phillip and William. Phillip, 19, is stationed at Fort Rucker with the U.S. Army and is training as a warrant officer and an aviator. William, 10, will be in fifth grade at Horizon Elementary,” he said. “I also have two sons, Alex and Chris, from a previous marriage. Alex is retired from the Army and lives in Georgia with his wife Shannon and our granddaughter Sadie; Alex is currently attending Kennesaw State. Chris is a sergeant in the Marine Corps and lives in California with his wife Chelsea and our granddaughters, Lily and Maddie.” Clark serves on Madison Utilities Board, Madison Beautification and Tree Board, Madison Municipal Cemeteries Committee, Madison Station Historic Preservation Commission and as city liaison to legal and court matters. In community involvement, he has participated in pop-up park builds and with political and professional organizations. Madison Living 15

page 17: A young patient helps Curtis with brushing the teeth of a dragon.

health

Dr. Kennon Curtis has designed Pediatric Dentistry of Madison to welcome children and allay fear of a dentist.

16 Madison Living

Toothy tranquility

WRITTEN BY GREGG L. PARKER PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOSHUA BERRY

Dr. Kennon Curtis calms young patients’ dentistry fears

r. Kennon Curtis has designed Pediatric Dentistry of Madison to welcome children and make them feel comfortable, while also allowing parents and older children to relax. Curtis located in Madison after his father’s friend offered to sell office space. “It was a great opportunity for me and my family. I quickly made the decision we were moving to Madison.” Pediatric Dentistry of Madison offers the gamut in education and prevention, including school-based programs; operative dentistry with sedation or as hospital outpatient; monitoring and modifying growth and development; and tongue/lip tie revisions. “In addition to laughing gas, we can do in-office conscious sedation or complete treatment in the hospital under general

anesthesia. For less severe cases, we commonly place children on an increased recall schedule. More trips mean more opportunities to establish trust to get to the root of their fear or anxiety. Once accomplished, special procedures often are not necessary,” he said. At times, laser dentistry allows Curtis to complete restorations anesthetic-free. Treating tongue and lip tie is a frequent occurrence for Curtis. “Many babies have trouble breastfeeding due to a small piece of tissue under the tongue or lip preventing proper range of motion,” he explained. He easily handles the problem in office with only topical anesthetic. “I love this aspect of my practice – to establish relationships almost from birth. We absolutely love having babies in our office.” Madison Living 17

Pediatric Dentistry of Madison offers laughing gas, in-office conscious sedation or complete treatment in the hospital under general anesthesia. Dr. Curtis works with new/expecting mothers to minimize bacteria transmission and reduce possibility of cavities. A smiling sock monkey dangles in a treatment room to give confidence to a young patient.

page 19: As a board-certified pediatric dentist, Curtis has specialized training to connect with children and deal with their specific needs in an easy, nonthreatening way.

18 Madison Living

Curtis works with new/expecting mothers to minimize bacteria transmission, as well. “Many people don’t realize that cavities are caused by a bacterial infection established within the first year,” he said. For parents who don’t pursue prenatal counseling, Curtis promotes American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry’s guidelines for scheduling a child’s first visit within six months after the first tooth’s eruption or first birthday. In addition, Curtis’ staff coordinates office visits when older patients are home from college. Curtis earned a bachelor’s degree in biology at the University of Mississippi and graduated with a D.M.D. from dental school at UM Medical Center in Jackson. For pediatric dental training, he worked

another two years in Jackson at Batson Children’s Hospital. He is certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. “As a board-certified pediatric dentist, I have specialized training to connect with children and deal with their specific needs in an easy, nonthreatening way,” Curtis said. He said he enjoys building relationships with the entire family. “Our practice is completely based around these relationships and accommodating each individual’s specific needs. From the warm smile greeting you at the door, throughout the office’s friendly environment, our goal is to ensure that you and your children have a pleasant and fun experience while visiting us.” Curtis is carrying on a family tradition. His father, a pediatric dentist, served as AAPD president. “I’ve had the good fortune to shadow pediatric dentists not only from around the country but from around the world,” Curtis said. Curtis has never met a pediatric dentist who regrets that career path. “I can’t say that about any other profession,” he said. It was early in his career that he recognized his passion for children – in his office, through organized dentistry and by pediatric dentists’ advocacy for children. “This passion was impossible to ignore.” Expanding the family tradition, his sister finished pediatric residency in June 2017. Office hours are Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The clinic’s address is 7771 U.S. 72 W. in Madison at the intersection with Hughes Road. For more information, call 256-325-6595, email pdofmadison@ gmail.com or visit pediatricdentistryofmadison.com or Facebook/ Pediatric Dentistry of Madison.

Madison Living 19

Education

Exploring new ventures

Dennis James retires from MCS and embraces new phase of life Written by GREGG L. PARKER photographs BY JOSHUA BERRY AND CONTRIBUTED

above: The James family: Patrick, Molly, Dennis and Mary Pat.

22 Madison Living

fter 28 years in education, Dennis James has retired from Madison City Schools. “Retirement” might be a misnomer because he has no plans to sit idle. James announced his retirement to Madison Board of Education in April 2017. Central Office colleagues and friends wished him well at a farewell reception at Blue Pants Brewery before his last day April 25.

For the past seven years, James has served as MCS director of student services. Previously, for nine years he taught math and coached at Bob Jones High School, where he founded cross-country and indoor track teams. He was assistant principal at Liberty Middle School and principal at Columbia Elementary School, both in six-year stints. Before entering the education field, he was an officer in the U.S. Air Force. After earning a bachelor’s degree at Athens State University, James earned a master’s degree

right: Dennis James and others at the Central Office collected toys for families in need.

in educational leadership from University of North Alabama and an educational specialist degree from University of Alabama. James said he believes each student has talents. “You have to take time to connect with each student, find what they’re passionate about and help them reach their potential,” he said. “Too many people get hung up on a grade. The important thing is to find a child’s talent and help them develop it … (so) they find happiness in life and where they’ll make a difference.” Efforts beyond classroom walls have shown students that educators care about them individually. “They are far more important than a test score.” He cited the We Care team for temporary assistance to student families in need, the backpack food program and expansion of counseling services and School Resource Officer program. “We’ve also tried to model servant leadership so students learn when they can help, they have a responsibility to help,” James said. “That’s how our partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital started.”

“We’ve also tried to model servant leadership so students learn when they can help, they have a responsibility to help.” — Dennis James

Dennis and Mary Pat climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa as a fundraising effort for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Madison Living 23

above: Guests at Dennis James’s bon voyage party at Blue Pants Brewery included Lauretta Viglianco, LaTisha King, Robby Parker and Latwan Lynch.

“Too many people get hung up on a grade. The important thing is to find a child’s talent and help them develop it … (so) they find happiness in life and where they’ll make a difference.” — Dennis James

James has led the district’s fundraising campaigns for St. Jude. Students have experienced real-life connections with peers. To raise money for St. Jude, he and wife Mary Pat climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa. Dennis and Mary Pat, who has worked as a legal secretary in Huntsville for 28 years, are moving to Memphis, Tenn., home of St. Jude. Mary Pat will lead volunteer efforts with St. Peter’s Church, and Dennis is collaborating with St. Jude to expand the hospital’s presence in American schools. Their son Patrick recently finished serving in the Air Force and has enrolled in college in Maryland. Daughter Molly teaches first-graders at Columbia. Dennis and Mary Pat are active members of St. Vincent de Paul through St. John the Baptist 24 Madison Living

Catholic Church. Mary Pat has delivered meals to homeless individuals. Dennis has served on United Way’s board. Most people don’t realize Dennis has flown solo in an Air Force jet and worked as pit master on a professional barbecue team, and at 18 years old, he was one of Alabama’s youngest reporters to win a press award. “In looking back, Mary Pat and I have such fond memories ... all centering around people, not a job or a place,” he said. “We’ve been blessed that our lives have crossed paths with so many wonderful people. It has been an honor to be a small part of their lives. “I will certainly miss so many people, but Mary Pat and I are very excited to tackle some new challenges in the next chapter of our lives.”

MCS revamps education for students with special needs

S Robert V. Parker Superintendent Madison City Schools

chool visits just aren’t the same in summer without the kids. They bring life to our campuses and joy to my heart. But don’t let those empty school parking lots mislead you. Summer is when we do a lot of renovations and repairs, in addition to staff planning and professional development. The work is often done around summer camps at the schools. One project I am really excited about is the work being done for our special needs kids. The Board approved major renovations at Rainbow Elementary and Columbia Elementary to serve a broader grade range of those students. Beginning in fall, we will

have one school serving elementary special needs students in east Madison (Rainbow) and one for west Madison (Columbia). Both schools will continue to serve the general population. Presently, kids with significant special needs attend three different elementary schools as they move up in grade: Mill Creek for K-1 students; Columbia Elementary for grades 2-3; and Rainbow for grades 4-6. Liberty Middle and James Clemens High School serve the secondary school developmentally-disabled population now, but plans are in place to expand programs to Discovery Middle and Bob Jones so there will be a true east and west elementa-

Education

ry-middle-high school feeder pattern for students with special needs. Consolidating into one elementary school on either side of town has multiple benefits. Fewer school changes means more time for students and school staff to develop relationships. Parents of children with special needs have told us frequent moves are tough on their children. They don’t get the same opportunity typical children get to form relationships with friends, neighbors and siblings at the schools. We love all of our students in Madison Schools. We especially love our special needs kids and try our best to help them in their journey through life.

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Madison Living 25

IN THE BIZ

n e e r BigG Bus Unique business stops for parties, playful exercise Written by GREGG L. PARKER photographs BY JOSHUA BERRY

ake a school bus. Apply imagination and playfulness. Plan exercise and games for party fun and building social skills. Add it all up, and you get Big Green Bus. Owner/operator Will Quincy opened Big Green Bus HSV for business in October 2014. He had worked as a warehouse manager, and wife LaDonna was an area sales manager for an auto finance company. Their demanding jobs required long hours. “We realized our children were quickly growing up. We wanted to spend more time together as a family. After a lot of praying and discussion, we decided it was time for a change,” Will said. In evaluating new careers, the Quincys wanted options that sparked their passions and were family-oriented. As high school and college instructors, they remembered the joy of teaching. As parents of pre-schoolers, they understood the need for

26 Madison Living

local options for birthday parties and extracurricular activities at schools. To fill both niches, the Quincys decided to start a family business to offer fun, exciting activities. Big Green Bus HSV accommodates different types of special events, such as birthday parties, school activities, church events and corporate gatherings. “We also support various nonprofit organizations, like Footprints Ministry and Project Sweet Peas,” Will said. Using experience as a competitive gymnast, Will currently offers a weekly gymnastics class at ten preschools with Big Green Bus. Year-round classes meet four times monthly for 40 minutes for children from 2-7 years old. The actual school bus, a 1987 Blue Bird, has an International 9.0 tractor engine. The space accommodates 12 children at a time.

The Quincy family: Will, LaDonna, Ella Jean and Allie Madison.

Madison Living 27

Gymnastics fundamentals are the basis of activities. “We want kids to have fun while enhancing their balance, coordination, strength, flexibility and agility,” Will said. Additionally, by interacting with peers, children learn to respect one another, be polite and take turns. Children will use gymnastic rings and bars, climbing ladder, rock wall and mini-trampoline. “The kids’ alltime favorite is to zip line into a ball pit. We’re constantly changing out equipment and coming up with innovative ideas,” Will said. “Kids love Mr. Will and often tell him how he’s the most fun person they know,” LaDonna said. “Mr. Will is just a big kid himself. Schools sometimes joke that he is their superhero.” Will’s hometown is Montgomery, and LaDonna is from Wetumpka. Both graduates of Auburn University, Will earned a degree in business management, and LaDonna, who was a majorette, graduated with a bachelor’s degree in apparel merchandising and business. “Like most people, we moved to Madison for a job opportunity in 2012. We have learned that God actually

from top: The Big Green Bus HSV can host birthday parties, school activities, church events and corporate gatherings. Allie Madison Quincy, 6, is a second-grader.

28 Madison Living

left: Will Quincy trained as a competitive gymnast. On the Big Green Bus HSV, children can have fun while enhancing their balance and coordination.

brought us here for another reason – to start Big Green Bus HSV,” Will said. “Our two beautiful daughters attend Madison Elementary School. Ella Jean is 8 and will enter third grade. Allie Madison is 6 and is an upcoming second-grader,” Will said. Both girls suggest new ideas for Big Green Bus, test

equipment and, as competitive gymnasts, are always eager to help with events on the Big Green Bus. Big Green Bus’ mailing address is P. O. Box 2293, Madison, AL 35758. For information, call 256-808-6178, email Will@ BigGreenBusHSV.com or visit BigGreenBusHSV.com or Facebook/Big Green Bus HSV.

due in

2017?

Tour Today! Exchange Place • 256.837.5437 Research Park • 256.382.7323 www.ccslion.com Due 2017 Ad 3.5x4.75 HSV.indd 1

Madison12/21/2016 Living2:05:56 29 PM

Madison Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

STORY & PHOTOS BY MADISON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Madison Chamber of Commerce has been busy celebrating Grand Openings, Ribbon Cuttings, Meet & Greets, Trains on Main participants, Taste the Spirit of Madison and much more. Thank you to all board members, ambassadors, volunteers and chamber members who always go the extra mile with a smile to help make the chamber great. For 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) to help keep up to date with whatâ€™s happening in our city.

Jewoong Jeong (left) and Nile Gaines (right) are awarded $1,000 Madison Chamber Scholarships, funded in part by Century Automotive.

Ribbon Cutting & Grand Opening for MCC Member EvaBank

Photographs By

Madison Chamber of Commerce 30 Living 30 Madison Madison Living

Trains on Main Participants enjoy the Chamberâ€™s downtown scavenger hunt

Madison Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Ribbon Cutting & Meet and Greet for MCC Member Kathleenâ€™s Bridal

Thank you MCC Member Avadian Credit Union for another fantastic Business After Hours

May MCC Ambassador Luncheon hosted by Hogan Family YMCA with lunch provided by Tedâ€™s Bar-B-Q

May 2017 MCC Monthly Luncheon sponsored by Avadian Credit Union with guest speaker Madison County Commission Chairman Dale Strong

Ribbon Cutting & Meet and Greet for MCC Member Mill Clothing Company

Madison Chamber of Commerce presented $500 from Taste the Spirit of Madison to the Culinary Department for Madison City Schools.

Madison Living Living 31 31 Madison

Out & About

1-3. The Madison Chamber of Commerce hosts a Business After Hours and Ribbon Cutting event at Merrill Gardens on Highway 72, a Kentucky Derby-themed event. 4-7. Madison area residents enjoy the 2nd Food Truck Rally held in Downtown Madison June 2. The downtown event brings out a variety of area food vendors and features live music in the outdoor patio area beside Old Black Bear Restaurant.

32 Madison Living

8-11. Area residents enjoy the weather, food and the music at the62nd Food Truck Rally in Downtown Madison. Area residents are encouraged to come out and enjoy the food and festive atmosphere. 12. Melissa Watts, community relations director for Merrill Gardens, stands with Madison Chamber of Commerce President Pam Honeycutt as she welcomes visitors to the Derby Days event. 13. Laurie White, director of sales and marketing for the Madison Holiday Inn Express & Suites, shows off her prize for winning the award for best Derby attire. 14-16. Chamber members and residents of Merrill Gardens enjoy the ribbon cutting and Derby Days June 1.

PHOTOS BY RANDY COX

Madison Living 33

Marketplace Madison Living • 256.772.6677

MIXER TRUCK DRIVERS NEEDED Now hiring full-time CDL-qualified mixer truck drivers. Must have good driving record 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” Child Care Director for Local Daycare Minimum Associates Degree. Child Development or Early Childhood Education w/one yr. daycare experience. MUST BE professional, organized, posses great communication skills. Send resume to: P.O. Box 5601 Decatur, AL 35601 CAGLE SOD FARM 419 Hybrid Bermuda • $1.35 sq.yd. Meyers Zoysia • $2.50 sq.yd. Empire Zoysia • $3.00 sq. yd. DELIVERY AVAILABLE 662-365-3152 www.caglesod.com Now Leasing HALLMARK CRESTMOOR APARTMENTS 1, 2 and 3 Bedroom Units Available W/D Hookups•

34 Madison Living

Pest Control Water/Garbage/Sewer Included 1060 Mountain View Road, Hartselle (256)773-7072 HUGHES NET • Gen4 High-Speed Satellite Internet Is Available Where You Live! FREE Standard Installation Limited Time Offer! Ask about FREE router! Call 800-266-4409 www.pbsinternet.com 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

Call 1-855-777-9785 & ask for Dale or Brandy. Nights/weekends, call Jeffrey: 334-372-5049 Ron: 1-850-454-4276 Richard: 334-492-0803 Carroll Fulmer Now Hiring Class-A CDL Drivers. Over-the-road positions Available. Dry vans. No hazmat. Must have one year over-the-road Experience and a clean MVR. Competitive pay and bonus Package. Good home time. Call 800-633-9710 ext. 2 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

Lenders’ New 1st Time Homebuyer’s Plan at Clayton Homes, Cullman. You can be APPROVED! 256-734-1930

Welder Training Coming Soon! Short Term Licensing Call for Details 866-432-0430 ESDschool.com

Wiley Sanders Truck Lines Inc $1,000 SIGN-ONBONUS Longevity-Bonus. Quarterly Safe-Driving AWARD. Competitive Pay Package. PAID Orientation. NEW Fleet of Trucks.

Box Trucks Needed A growing company needs independent contractors with vehicles to deliver office and Medical supplies all over N AL. Clean BG/MVR/drug test. Must be customer friendly!! Weekly settlements!

Call Shasta @ LSO Final Mile 256-461-0069 or email Shasta.Lanford@ lsofinalmile.com Glass Installers & Construction Laborers Experience preferred but not required. Starting pay between $10 and $15 per hour, depending on experience. (256)353-9181 STRAWBERRIES You Pick or We Pick VEST U-PICK-IT EVA, AL 256-796-2070 Caregivers & Nurses ALWAYS THERE IN-HOME CARE Immediate need, Flexible hours, Benefits available. Call for more information 256-539-1400 www.alwaysthereinc. com ANN’S ALTERATIONS 600 Limestone Street, Suite #6 Hartselle, AL 256-773-4213 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

Smith Motors Two locations on Hwy 31, Decatur Lot #1 256-350-9938 2 Lot #2 256-350-9937 smithmotorsautosales. com SERVICE TECH Accepting applications for service tech position. Experience, References, Clean MVR Required. Sunshine Homes, Inc. Call 256-356-4427, ext. #33 Town Hill Mini Storage 160 Units Vacancies All Sizes 256-332-9928 Great Jobs ARE Out There... If You Know Where to Look! AIDT recruits, screens and trains qualified applicants for outstanding jobs statewide. All at NO COST to you! Visit www.aidt.edu/ jobs today to view your opportunities! Become a Dental Assistant in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website capstonedental assisting.com or call (205) 561-8118 & get your career started!

Madison Living 1

Our physicians Marc Zelickson, Caroline Schreeder, Douglas Downey and Matthew Hunt

New name, same great service

We treat you like family. The team at Valley Surgical Associates treats patients of all ages with general surgical procedures. Common Procedures – Biliary/gallbladder disease – Hernia repair and abdominal wall reconstruction

– Small bowel/colon/appendix surgery for benign and malignant disease – Breast surgery for benign and malignant disease

Madison Medical I 1041 Balch Road, Suite 350 Madison, AL 35758

Blackwell Medical Tower 201 Sivley Road, Suite 330 Huntsville, AL 35801

– Skin and soft tissue surgery for benign and malignant disease – Vascular access surgery for chemotherapy

(256) 265-5951 | huntsvillehospital.org/VSA