Madison Living March 2016

Brews blast off

Rockleitc Repub

l launches brewery, b Tap Room T

Black Bear Foodie Old introduces full of tasty haven menu eats

Drink to that Old Black Bear offers popular brewery experience

g n i t a r Deconesse fi Mancuso Man family adds rich touches to Madison home

Raise your glass Blue Pants Brewery draws crowds with special events

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

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HOME IMPECCABLE STYLE LET’S EAT PUB GRUB EDUCATION

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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MONEY MATTERS

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TALE AS OLD AS TIME

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HEALTH BUNDLES OF ENERGY DRINK TO THAT

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HONING THEIR CRAFT

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ROCKET REPUBLIC

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ON TAP

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CHAMBER NEWSLETTER

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OUT AND ABOUT

Madison Living 3

HOME

Impeccable STYLE 4 Madison Living

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

Decorating finesse is hallmark of Mancuso home

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ony and Dr. Dawn Mancuso continually refresh and revitalize their home in Heritage Plantation with impeccable style and beauty.

The Mancusos have lived in the home since 1997.

“It was one of the first houses in the neighborhood.

We loved the location, curb appeal and the magnificent foyer and curved staircase as you walk in,” Dawn said.

“The overall floor plan worked for us at the time.” In addition, they were pleased with the large backyard.

The home’s architectural style follows traditional lines. The exterior construction uses red brick.

Statuesque Roman Ionic columns stand guard at the front entrance. Interior space covers 5,000 square feet with five bedrooms and 4.5 baths.

“We added a room to be used as a sunroom but use it for our breakfast room as it overlooks the pool and backyard landscaping,” Dawn said. “We also remodeled our master bath a few years ago and love the copper soaking tub.”

LEFT: Dr. Dawn and Tony Mancuso have lived in their home in Heritage Plantation since 1997.

Madison Living 5

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The magnificent foyer was definitely a selling point for the Mancusos. Subdued khaki tones for walls allow painted furnishings to “pop” with color. This fireplace mantle features heavily-carved supports to add architectural appeal. A baby grand piano serves as focal point in this room.

“Currently, we’re leaning toward a less formal decor yet more tailored than bulky,” Dawn said. “Our favorite piece, however, is our heavy mahogany carved bed we bought when we got married.”

The Mancusos have redecorated a number of rooms with assistance of Janet South and Tim Tolbert of Townhouse Galleries in Decatur. “Janet and Tim can come in and (decorate a room) in a flash,” Dawn said.

For flow throughout the house, the home’s prevalent color scheme consists of various shades of khaki with coordinating ceiling colors. “We have a number of unusual pieces but overall stay with a traditional look,” she said.

The Mancuso home has a number of original art pieces by several local artists. “We love especially those 6 Madison Living

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ABOVE FROM LEFT: The master bath’s copper soaking tub is perched between corner windows.

The Mancusos’ kitchen accommodates a quick snack after work.

For decorating advice, Dr. Dawn Mancuso calls on Janet South and Tim Tolbert with Townhouse Galleries in Decatur.

Custom artwork adds ambiance in the Mancuso dining room.

A large mirror anchors this bedroom.

An exceptional table holds a container of fresh tulips.

RIGHT: The Mancuso home has a number of original art pieces by several local artists, including their friend Carole Foret of Athens.

8 Madison Living

from longtime friend Carole Foret,” Dawn said. “We collect art from areas we travel and have several beautiful pieces from Greece and Italy.” They are especially fond of a vase from Venice and a mask from Greece.

In landscaping, the Mancusos have developed the backyard “into our small paradise with a Koi pond, pool with balustrade and entertaining area with curved stone seating area and fire pit ... perfect for lots of outdoor parties.” Dawn said.

She is a family physician at Heritage Family Medicine and recently started a concierge practice in the same building. She serves as medical direc-

tor at Gentiva Hospice of Huntsville and recently retired as medical director at Senior Health and Rehab in Athens. Tony is manager at the medical practice and owner/manager of West Madison Professional Plaza.

The Mancusos keep involved with Alabama Crimson Tide football because their daughters are enrolled at the University of Alabama. Allyson, 20, is enrolled in pre-law studies in the Honors College. Also a UA student, Camille, 18, earned a scholarship to study art.

Tony is active in barbeque competition with Kansas City Barbeque Society. He has assisted

with coaching girls’ lacrosse in Huntsville and Madison.

Dawn participates with local chambers of commerce and leukemia and lymphoma societies. Recently, she was nominated for “Woman of the Year” in fundraising competition. She serves on Madison County

Medical Society’s Board of Trustees and has worked with local schools. In her spare time, she enjoys planning the next interior design project for their home.

Dawn is a native of Athens. Tony grew up in Monongahela, Pennsylvania. They met in Birmingham and moved to Madison in 1997.

Madison Living 9

LET’S EAT

Pub grub Old Black Bear

offers

new dining experience

ABOVE: Local foodies are buzzing about Chicken and Waffles at Old Black Bear.

PAGE 11 CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Shawncey Smith is sous chef at Old Black Bear. Marci Mays is txecutive chef at Old Black Bear. Guests can order from a list of savory appetizers.

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

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long with introducing its own spin on craft beer, Old Black Bear Brewing Company has opened another option for dining in Madison’s historic district.

Co-owners Todd and Dawn Seaton have devised a tempting but not-run-of-the-mill menu for dining in downtown at 212 Main St. To whet your appetite, Dawn Seaton suggests starting with grilled artichoke hearts, spiked to taste with sriracha aioli, a seasoned sauce similar to mayonnaise. Cave City Beer Cheese with pretzel bites is a good taste on a chilly day.

The Potato Tornado with beer cheese takes the lowly spud to new heights. For an unusual sampling that’s the rage for “foodies,” order the pork belly, which is smoked and tossed in bacon vinaigrette.

Guests are giving rave reviews to the restaurant’s Smokey Pimento Cheese with baguette slices. This classic staple in Southern snacking goes to a new level at Old Black Bear with a creamy cheese highlighted with fresh pimento peppers and green onion tidbits. And speaking of pimento and cheese, Todd Seaton’s personal first-choice order on the menu is the Pimento Cheeseburger. “I don’t get to eat it nearly enough because I have to counteract it with at least three days of salmon and broccoli,” he said jokingly.

Salmon plank, grilled on a cedar slab, is one of Old Black Bear’s entrees.

“We sell twice as many burgers as anything else on the menu.

Our beef comes from Deer Valley Farms, just across the Tennessee

LANDSCAPE NURSERY AND GARDEN CENTER

Madison Living 11

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: A spear of pickled okra tops the Pimento Cheese Burger.

Salmon on a cedar plank is accompanied by broccoli and rice pilaf.

The Turkey on sourdough with cheddar, bacon, tomato and ranch dressing goes great with a pale ale.

border, and is one the highest quality beef that you can buy in the United States,” Seaton said. “We are quickly becoming known for having the best burger in town.”

“And to have the best burger, you have to get the best beef,” he said.

Other sandwich options are the Taproom Burger with certified Angus beef topped with a farm-fresh egg; turkey sourdough, dressed with cheddar, bacon, tomato and ranch dressing; and a tribute to Tupelo’s King, the “Elvis Impersonator” consists of peanut butter, banana, honey and bacon.

Entrees include Adult Mac and Cheese with chef ’s choice of vegetable. Wings by the pound are available in various levels of heat or flavor and served with piping-hot seasoned fries. A 10-inch all-beef corndog is another menu item.

The chicken and waffles dish is another crowd favorite. This order “combines the best of two worlds – spicy fried chicken and sweet Belgian waffles,” Seaton said. “To top off both of these great food entrees, you pair it with any of our quality beers, and you’ll come back every time.”

If a crisp, fresh salad is more to your liking, the restaurant prepares a house salad, classic wedge with bleu cheese dressing or the Caesar with a speckled trout dressing.

The Seatons didn’t forget about their youngest diners. Children can enjoy a grilled cheese on sourdough, a classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich or a Little Turkey with lettuce and tomato, also on sourdough.

Early risers can enjoy the OBB Coffee Shop on weekday mornings from 7-11 a.m. In the near future, Old Black Bear will open for breakfast/brunch hours on weekends.

For a complete look at the menu, visit oldblackbear.com/taproom. For more information, call 256-226-1032 or visit Facebook/Old Black Bear.

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Money matters

EDUCATION

School system accounts for expenditures DR. DEE O. FOWLER SUPERINTENDENT MADISON CITY SCHOOLS

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he Board and I strive to be good stewards of your hard-earned money.

That requires careful scrutiny of expenditures while keeping close tabs on revenues. If there are cost efficiencies to be found, we want to implement them to maximize the resources needed for instructional programs.

One major cost control is through wise energy management. Director of operations Patrick Conner and his team have been busy since summer overseeing the installation of energy efficient lighting in our buildings, parking lots and stadium.

The bulbs are in addition to mo-

tion-sensor light switchRight Solutions for Business es in several schools that and Industry.

Only months into operatrip lights off when not tion, the expenditure is already needed. paying off. The Tennessee Thermostat settings Valley Authority recently reare also being better bated Madison City Schools managed through inDr. Dee $98,678 from the purchase. house training, and plans Fowler A look at just two of our are in the works for enerelementary schools in Sepgy efficient chiller pumps on heating and air conditioning tember, October and November systems. The school district recent- shows substantial drops in kiloly hired an energy manager to help watt hours compared to the same months a year ago. Those two monitor and control utility usage.

The $461,369 lighting re- schools alone reduced their light placement involved the purchase bill by nearly $10,000 just over of 29,580 bulbs. The bulbs were those three months. Those savbought under a TVA energy ings appear consistent with other rebate program called Energy schools as well.

So simply switching from a standard 32-watt to a 12-watt energy-efficient bulb is driving down utility bills on a pace that could shave $250,000 from the district’s overall $2.7 million yearly utility expense. All without sacrificing lighting quality.

The retrofit wasn’t necessary at Bob Jones and Madison Elementary because the lightbulb replacement was done during extensive renovations to those schools.

The project will also reduce costs through less maintenance and replacement costs.

The more we spend on utility bills, the less we are able to spend in our classrooms. That’s never a bright idea.

This popular exhibit has been extended through early May!

Open O pen the the door door to to their their future future

“S “Science Science i Fiction, Ficti tion, i Science Sciience Future” Futture”” is an interactive adventure that demonstrates such future technologies as robotics, holograms, augmented reality and invisibility.

Call (256) 837-3400 or visit rocketcenter.com for more information.

RocketCenterUSA

This exhibition is created by Scitech Discovery Centre, Perth, Australia, and produced by Imagine Exhibitions Inc.

Madison Living 13

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

EDUCATION

AND CONTRIBUTED

Tale as old as time

James Clemens’ ‘BEAUTY AND THE BEAST’ entices with sets, costumes

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tale as old as time’ will be told when James Clemens Theatre presents “Beauty and the Beast” as the 2016 spring musical.

Director Amy Patel said James Clemens Theatre is proud of the diverse variety in their shows.

“Each year, we look at kinds of shows we haven’t 14 Madison Living

done (and) balance comedy with drama, or family-friendly with edgy,” Patel said.

Student Director Emma Waldron said the show will “showcase our work to families with younger children, exciting them to possibly join theatre and bolster our program. Our technical program has quite a challenge in set building, elaborateness of

“Each year, we look at kinds of shows we haven’t done (and) balance comedy with drama, or familyfriendly with edgy.”

— Amy Patel

LEFT: James Clemens Theatre will present “Beauty and the Best” on April 7-9.

ABOVE: Kayla Braxton portrays Belle, an innocent maiden who befriends the Beast.

Madison Living 15

costumes and makeup and transformation of various characters.”

Set in 18th-century France, the show tells about a selfish prince, cursed to become a hideous beast for his ugly actions. Belle, a sweet maiden, becomes his friend, Waldron said. The beast’s two transformations require strategic, logistical work.

“We’re working with a makeup designer to create the Beast’s mask and extensive makeup,” similar to a Hollywood experience, technical director Clint Merritt said.

The production involves 100-plus students with three student directors, two student choreographers, more than 60 actors and dancers, 30 techs and about ten student musicians performing with professionals in the pit.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: All members of the cast dance in this musical. Technical director Clint Merritt said his tech crew is doing college-level work. Production staff from James Clemens faculty includes, from left, Clint Merritt, technical director; Amy Patel, director; and Harris Gessner, who is music director along with Stuart Tankesley (not pictured). Lead actors are Kayla Braxton (Belle) and Alex Walbom (Beast).

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ABOVE: Director Amy Patel, center, gives notes to the cast during rehearsal.

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Music directors are Harris Gessner, who directs James Clemens Choir, and Stuart Tankesley, assistant band director. Kyle McCormick, Jessica Russ and Waldron are student directors. Carrie Gormley and Anna White are student choreographers. Newt Johnson is contracted for his piano and directing skills.

Lead actors are Alex Walbom (Beast) and Kayla Braxton (Belle).

Cast members include Tad Hutt (Gaston), Andrew Pharo (Lefou), Marcus Patton (Maurice), Hannah Rice (Lumiere), Ethan Brown (Cogsworth), Abigayle Williams (Mrs. Potts), Tucker Pearson (Chip), Becky Protos (Babette), Abbi Layman (Madame La Bouche), Matthew Bao (Monsieur D’Arque) and Amanda Jackson (Enchantress).

All cast members dance. Nine additional dancers, trained in ballet and lyrical dance, are featured.

Patel was surprised at the number of students who had never seen the movie/play. “It actually tackles mature concepts: value we place on outer beauty; societal rejection of things ‘different’; woman’s role in society; and the way hatred can create a hardness.”

The musical “has to look ‘Disney,’ which is a challenge from the start,” Merritt said. With many

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Madison Living 17

scenes and locations, the cast/crew must manage numerous props, lighting and costume changes.

“Our students are the designers. We’re also bringing in a professional designer to guide them and unify their ideas into real concrete plans,” Merritt said. “They design with professional-level software used in the industry.

“Makeup and costumes are ‘a beast’ themselves with so many actors. But we have a fantastic crew doing college-level work.

I have no doubt in them,” Merritt said.

“Madison City produces one fantastic musical. One year, it’s at James Clemens, and one year it’s at Bob Jones,” Patel said. “Talent in this city is staggering. Truly staggering. Over and over, I hear people say, ‘I forgot I was watching a high school show.’”

Patel points to evidence of that talent by both James Clemens and Bob Jones winning with their one-act plays at state Trumbauer competition.

“Theatre is not a competitive sport. In theatre, we are #onecity,” Patel said. When James Clemens students attend Bob Jones’ shows, “our students become better artists,” Merritt said. “I think Bob Jones students learn from ours, too.

It’s a win-win. When we look good, they look good – all of Madison City looks good.”

Elementary students — Emma Waldron can attend “field trip” shows April 6-7 at 9 a.m.

To reserve seats, email schoolshow.jamesclemenstheatre@gmail.com.

Performances are April 7-9 at 7 p.m. and a matinee April 9 at 2 p.m. Tickets are available at showtix4u.com and at the door.

“Our students are the

designers. We’re also bringing in a professional designer to guide them and unify their ideas into real concrete plans.”

18 Madison Living

ABOVE: Director Amy Patel, at right, said James Clemens Theatre is proud of the diverse variety in its shows.

Bundles of energy

HEALTH

STORY AND PHOTO BY HEART OF THE VALLEY YMCA

K

ids today live in a wired world, and it’s no exaggeration that youngsters spend an average of seven hours on the screens of electronic devices every day, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Studies show that excessive media use can lead to attention problems, school difficulties, sleep and eating disorders and obesity. Our kids crave connectivity, and there’s a better way to help them develop positive relationships with their peers and appropriate adult role models – send them to summer camp!

Two camp opportunities are available to children through the YMCA this summer, and the great news is, the Y makes camp affordable to any family via scholarships.

This summer at the Hogan YMCA in Madison, children in kindergarten through sixth grade can swim, participate in sports and games and take field trips to local attractions, express themselves through creative arts and stay active and happy without ever missing their TV or tablet screens.

Because they also crave variety, kids can shuttle to YMCA Camp Cha-LaKee from the Y for outdoor day camp.

Cha-La-Kee sits on the waterfront at Lake Guntersville, and kids can stay cool playing water sports including swimming, kayaking, canoeing, banana boating and “blobbing.” On land, they can enjoy zip lining, archery, rifles, pony rides and games under a shaded pavilion. Cha-LaKee offers overnight camp, too.

Summer camp begins May 29 and is offered Monday through Friday through July 30 from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Children may attend three or five days per week. To register, visit ymcahuntsville.org/CAMPS or call 256-705-9622.

Madison Living 19

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AND CONTRIBUTED

Honing their craft Blue Pants Brewery offers special events A

passion for craft beer and the craft brewing community led to the founding of Blue Pants Brewery.

“Having traveled to other locations where there is a thriving craft brewing scene, I wanted to bring that to our home town of Madison,” Michael Spratley said.

Michael Spratley, co-owner of Blue Pants Brewery, draws a craft beer.

22 Madison Living

Owners Michael and Allison Spratley got hooked on craft beer while living in Seattle.

“When we moved back to the Southeast, there was a dearth of craft beer, so Mike started brewing,” Allison said. “It’s our first bar/restaurant business experience.”

Customers at Blue Pants relish the friendly atmosphere “that is all about the beer and the edu-

cation. Our regulars come back because they know they’re getting some really unreasonably good beer, and they’ll have the opportunity to have a conversation about it,” Allison said.

What are the Spratley’s favorite tastes? Michael is a big fan of the hop bursted IPA, or India Pale Ale. Allison prefers the Amber brew. The most popular beer with customers is “probably Weedy’s Double

ABOVE FROM LEFT: Blue Pants’ facility formerly served as warehouses for cotton.

The most popular beer with customers is likely Weedy’s Double IPA.

Madison Living 23

IPA, though our seasonals are always really popular, like our Oktoberfest and our upcoming Pilsener,” Allison said.

On Tuesday nights, Blue Pants customers can relax at some happy hours with half-priced pints. On Friday, some cocktail specials are available.

As far as the typical crowd at Blue Pants, Allison ABOVE: Seasonals are said they have a diverse mix. “Typically after work, always popular at Blue we see business professionals, and later in the eve- Pants. ning see a wide range of people for the live music and food trucks,” she said.

Food trucks at Blue Pants have a following all their own. The Spratleys try to rotate through the

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The brewery frequently hosts special events. Michael Spratley and wife Allison first appreciated craft beer while living in Seattle. Sausage Fest is one of Blue Pants’ annual special events. Customers can learn about the brewing process at Blue Pants.

24 Madison Living

trucks to offer guests a range of food choices and flavors. Fire and Spice, Belly and Neon Lilly visit Blue Pants often.

The brewery frequently hosts special events. On Fridays, guests can listen to live music, take numerous classes or show up just for fun.

One major annual event, Sausage Fest has local teams vying for bragging rights for the best-tasting grilled recipe. A judges’ panel awards cash prizes to the most popular tastes, and the partygoers can vote for People’s Choice.

The Pinstripe Fest is “a celebration of all things stout at the taproom,” Michael said. One past Pinstripe Fest featured variations of Blue Pants’ export stout, including Brown Sugar, Pumpkin Spice Latte, Chai, Dark and Stormy, Dry Hop, Banana Pepper, Samoa, Peanut Butter and Jelly and Andes Mint.

“People are impressed with the amount of flavor we pull out of all our beers. Everything that we brew is rich and complex but balanced and incredibly smooth,” Michael said.

The Spratleys believe Madison “is a great town and has a lot of potential. Our site in Madison is exceptional ... old cotton warehouses that speak to the way Madison used to be but are still relevant,” Allison said.

In past years, Madison Chamber of Commerce has nominated Blue Pants for Small Business of the Year.

Blue Pants’ address is 500 Lanier Road in Madison.

The brewery opens on Monday through Saturday at 3 p.m. For more information, visit bluepantsbrew.com, Facebook/Blue Pants Brewery or Twitter @bluepantsbrew.

ABOVE FROM LEFT: Allison and Michael Spratley are co-owners of Blue Pants.

The amount of flavor in the brews impresses Blue Pants’ customers.

Madison Living 25

DRINK TO THAT

t e k c o R lic b u p Re

Catering to customer tastes

in everything from brews to music

A

fter searching almost a year, Rocket Republic owners landed in Madison with a building that has infrastructure required for a production brewery and suitable zoning.

John and Lynn Troy and Eric and Tatum Crigger own Rocket Republic Brewing Company Inc. 26 Madison Living

“We incorporated in March 2013 and launched in September 2013 as a contract brewery,” Eric Crigger said. “In March 2015, we opened our Madison production facility at 289 Production Avenue near FedEx and the airport.”

More than a decade ago, Crigger started brewing beer with a Mr. Beer Kit and then progressed

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

to larger batches and more complex methods. He completed a course at The Siebel Institute in Chicago – beer school – and worked at Olde Towne Brewing Company in Huntsville.

“I learned a lot about business operations and amount of work that goes into a production brewery,” Crigger said. He then “formulated a business plan to eventually open a brewery of my own, well before the boom the craft beer industry is experiencing now.”

Rocket Republic’s building with 10,000 square feet is entirely open. The manufacturing area is integrated directly into the Tap Room, allowing customers a close view of production. People have

an immense curiosity about brewing beer. “Having access to where and how it’s made is a great experience,” Crigger said.

That sprawling space, rocket motif and steampunk theme draw many customers, along with the beer. “Steampunk speaks the language of the people as Rocket Republic’s beer inventions do,” Crigger said. “People don’t really know what steampunk is until they see it but immediately identify with it. Our area is all about reinventing the past to create a more forward-thinking future.”

What is Crigger’s favorite brew? That’s a frequent question, he said. “My preference depends

ABOVE: Eric Crigger, shown here, and wife Tatum, along with John and Lynn Troy, own Rocket Republic Brewing Company Inc.

Madison Living 27

ABOVE: Rocket Republic’s name pays homage to the area’s history in space technology.

BELOW FROM LEFT: Rocket Republic’s address is 289 Production Ave, which is in the vicinity of FedEx and Huntsville International Airport.

The Madison location of Rocket Republic opened in March 2015.

28 Madison Living

on lots of factors. Right now, I’m drinking our seasonal scotch ale, Scotch Rocket. As far as yearround, I’ll generally gravitate to our award winning IPA, Mach 1.” IPA abbreviates India Pale Ale. “There’s a beer style for every occasion. My favorite is largely dependent on where and why I’m having a beer,” Crigger said.

Vapor Trail Cream Ale, their “gateway beer,” was launched into craft beer from mass-produced pale lagers. Also in September 2013, they launched AstroNut Brown Ale, a dark and malty beer.

“From there, we introduced our hoppy Mach1 IPA and then our Belgian Tripel, Terrestri-Ale,”

Crigger said. Mach 1 IPA, their best-selling beer, won Beer of the Year at Rocket City Brewfest 2015.

“If you visit our Tap Room today, you’ll find over a dozen different beers on tap, including one experimental batch,” along with Coffee Cream Ale and Peanut Butter Astronut. (rocketrepublicbrewing.com/beers) On Sunday through Wednesday, guests get $2 off a flagship year-round beer. For the Tap Room schedule, visit rocketrepublicbrewing.com/taproom.

“Craft beer is blind to stereotypes,” Crigger said.

“Our customers range in age, race, gender and

marital status. It’s refreshing to see older couples enjoying craft beer and fun to see groups of younger people socializing or playing cornhole, darts or other games.”

“There’s a strong social and community aspect to the experience,” he said. “There’s no typical customer.”

Several different food trucks offer concessions.

Each staff member has a favorite. Customer feedback guides the schedule for “trucks of the month” and gives varying food tastes at each visit.

On Friday and Saturdays, bands and solo artists perform – usually smaller groups or acoustic shows.

“Our intent is to provide entertainment but also allow guests to talk and socialize without having to yell over music,” Crigger said.

For a Toys for Tots fundraiser, customers dressed in “Star Wars” costumes and previewed movies.

Their entertainment lineup is available online.

“We’re proud to be in the City of Madison.

Lots of our customers work outside Madison but live in Madison. Our Tap Room gives them a place to have fun without having to travel out of their city,” Crigger said.

Rocket Republic is adjacent to I-565. “From our parking lot, we’re less than 15 minutes from

downtown Huntsville and even closer to Redstone Arsenal,” Crigger said.

Rocket Republic’s hours are Sunday, 3-8 p.m.; Monday-Wednesday, 4-9 p.m.; Thursday, 4-10 p.m.; Friday, 4-11 p.m.; and Saturday, 2-11 p.m.

For more information, visit Rocketrepublicbrewing.com, Facebook/RocketRepublicBrewing, Twitter/ RRBeer, Instagram/rocketrepublicbrewing or Google Pages/RdIwa3.

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Madison Living 29

DRINK TO THAT

On

tap

Downtown taps a winner with Old Black Bear WRITTEN BY GREGG L. PARKER PHOTOGRAPHS BY JEN FOUTS-DETULLEO

PAGE 31: Old Black Bear has a large patio area, which faces Martin Street.

Regulars pack the bar at Old Black Bear.

30 Madison Living

Y

et another new chapter in downtown Madison’s story unfolded when Old Black Bear Brewing Company opened at 212 Main St. “Madison is a great tight-knit community.

We’ve had a ton of support so far, and it doesn’t show signs of stopping,” Old Black Bear President Todd Seaton said. His wife Dawn Seaton is vice president of finance.

“We also wanted to be on the front end of the revitalization of downtown Madison. There are big plans for downtown, and we want to help shape those plans to make downtown a destination,” Todd Seaton said.

The taproom, coffee shop and kitchen occupy the former site of Bandito Burrito. The adjacent storefront, formerly the site of Western Auto hardware, houses the brewing equipment.

For the Seatons, brewing beer started as a hobby, “much like all the other brewers in town. As we’ve grown the business, my focus has turned to being more of a manager, which is why we hired

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MUSICOLOGY

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WHICH WICH Madison Living 31

For most customers, Cave City Lager is the most popular beer.

ABOVE FROM LEFT: The staff at Old Black Bear.

Todd and Dawn Seaton own Old Black Bear.

32 Madison Living

two well-schooled brewers,” Todd said. “I had no previous experience in the restaurant/bar industry, but we’ve put a team together that makes up for any shortfalls we may have.”

Like on “Cheers” where everybody knows your name, customers have a sense of home when they visit. “We achieve that through hospitality, seeing your favorite waiter or waitress, bartender or chef.

We’re all a family. That vibe gets passed on to our guests through the food and the atmosphere,” Todd said.

For most customers, Cave City Lager is the most popular beer. The new 256 Extra Pale Ale is quickly gaining popularity. “Just released are Old Black Bear’s Delight, a nine-percent Coffee Stout and our Whooping Crane Red Ale that benefits the International Crane Foundation to help its conservation,” he said.

Demographics are varied for Old Black Bear’s crowd. Most diners are families with young children. “Young professionals from nearby contractors dominate lunch,” Todd said. “We’re pleased with the diversity that we see so far.”

“We also wanted to be on the front end of the revitalization of downtown Madison.”

— Todd Seaton RIGHT: Sales of Whooping Crane Red Ale benefits the International Crane Foundation.

Distressed, wooden letters spell out the brewery’s name.

With the promise of spring, guests soon will enjoy bands on the back patio for outdoor music.

Old Black Bear is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. The kitchen closes daily from 2-4 p.m. to prepare for dinner service. Currently, Coffee Shop hours are 7-11 a.m. on weekdays, with plans to open on weekends soon.

Old Black Bear originally opened at 201 East Side Square, Suite 11, in Huntsville. Their company slogan is “Hard work has its reward.”

For more information, call 256-850-4639 or visit oldblackbear.com, Facebook/drinkmorebear, Twitter @oldblackbear and Instagram/oldblackbearbrewing.

Madison Living 33

Madison Chamber of Commerce NewsletterCity

Connect 2016, Mayor Troy Trulock’s Madison State of the City Address presented

by Frank Williams Landers McLarty, took place Jan. 29. “We would like to be the Key to Connecting the Community” was the theme for the evening.

Mayor Troy Trulock delivered his State of the City Address at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in front of a crowd of 600 people that included business leaders, dignitaries and residents of Madison. Connect 2016 was a celebration of the city, the residents, area businesses, local government and Madison City School students. Scholarships were raised for students who display commitment to education and serving the community. Connect 2016 gave everyone a look into the promising future that lies ahead.

Mayor Troy Trulock gives his State of the City Address under the Saturn 5 Rocket.

Mayor Troy Trulock highlights growth in the City of Madison.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY

MADISON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

34 Madison Living

The Frank Williams Landers McLarty Team stands next to an Alfa Romeo.

Madison Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Attendees celebrate connections.

(From left to right) Connect 2016 emcee Jerry Hayes from WHNT News 19, Dana Trulock and Mayor Troy Trulock.

James Clemens Army JROTC.

A Madison Belle welcomes guests to Connect 2016.

Mr. Jon Randel, senior manager, Army Missile Defense Programs at Lockheed Martin, introducing Mayor Troy Trulock during the Mayor’s Reception sponsored by Lockheed Martin.

Bob Jones Ambassadors helping with coat check at Connect 2016.

Twilight Sponsor Port of Huntsville speaker Jana Kuner with other Connect 2016 attendees.

Connect 2016 presenting sponsor Frank Williams Landers McLarty, along with his wife Mary Williams.

Madison Living 35

Citizens of Madison gather for State of the City

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Jan. 29, the Davidson Center at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center was filled with invitees to Madison City’s State of the City Address.

1. Phil Bentley, Betty Bentley and John Richard 2. Carol Madry Bell and Tim Holcombe 3. Stuart and Lillie Whitaker 4. Ed Semmes and Carlton Brewer 5. Margrit and Robert Moore and Crickett Lemasters

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6. Pam Williams and Garrett Coker 7. Hanu and Vidya Karlapalem 8. Rick and Denice Sullivan

PHOTOGRAPHS BY LEXIE TUBELL

AND TUCKER PEARSON

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9. Camillia and Al Stanley 10. Tim and Stacy Stone 11. John and Tammy Wright and Marie Arighi 12. Kay Deal and Danny Justin 13. Vickie Fields and Maryanne Andrews 14. Matt and Becky Ramsey 15. Johnand Terri Bryson 16. Taron Thrope and Sgt. Maj. Samuel McCray

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PHOTOGRAPHS BY LEXIE TUBELL

AND TUCKER PEARSON

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17. Brain Weems and Grace and John Lo

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18. Nick Hanson, Janet Hanson and Paul Agarwal 19. Mark and Ronda Garver 20. Lindsey Wilson and DJ Jennings 21. Vicki Morris and Tammy Thrope 22. Del and Andrea Beilstein 23. Jewel Loper and Natalie S. Curier 24. Erich Brukner and Sherry Brukner

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PHOTOGRAPHS BY LEXIE TUBELL

AND TUCKER PEARSON

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Marketplace Madison Living • 256.772.6677

JOBS IN ALABAMA!!

AIDT assists employers throughout AL by identifying qualified applicants by recruitment, screening & training services. Visit www.aidt. edu/jobs for latest jobs & training! $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 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 CAGLE SOD FARM 419 Hybrid Bermuda $1.35 per square yard Meyers Zoysia $2.50 per square yard Empire Zoysia $3.00 per square yard Delivery available 662-365-3152 www.caglesod.com 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 THE MEADOWS Luxury Apartments Ground floor patio apts., Upgraded Appliances, Ceramic Tile, Ceiling Fans, Individual Alarm Systems & More.

1540 Lawrence St. East, Russellville 256-398-8818

Soon The Mark Of The Beast Will Be Enforced!

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In God We Trust Ministries P.O. Box 171 Samantha, AL 35482 (205)339-4837 HOMES FOR SALE Financing Available (wac) Low Down Payments Sheffield, Hackleburg, Town Creek, Courtland, Moulton & Falkville Call Matt 1-855-847-6808 EDWARD E. BLAIR, ATTORNEY DIVORCE, CUSTODY, CRIMINAL DEFENSE, PERSONAL INJURY Serving Hartselle, Madison, Decatur and most of North Alabama.

CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION TODAY (256)534-9995 blairinjuryattorney.com Welder Training Coming Soon!

Short Term Licensing Call for Details 866-432-0430 ESDschool.com First South Farm Credit Poultry House Financing for: • New Construction • Refinancing farms • Expansion • Updating facilities Muscle Shoals 256-381-0721, Moulton 256-974-1124 firstsouthpoultry.com Equal Housing Lender •Mixed hay $5.00 per bale •$4.50 per bale for 100+bales Located In West Point Call 256-734-4202 We repair any appliance!

We Pick up Used Appliances & Riding Lawn Mowers!

Hallmark Appliance Repair 256-773-1192 Come Home to Holiday Plaza Apartments (Behind Foodland) Equal Housing Opportunity 256-332-2960

A wonderful opportunity is waiting for you. Life is too short for the wrong job. Get a job that not only allows you to help other but makes you feel great aboutdoing it. We are looking for YOU! Help seniors in their own homes with simple things around the house and also with their personal needs. Flexible hours and ongoing training opportunities plus take advantage of our great benefits we have to offer.

2 BONUS OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY UPON HIRE! Apply today at: www.homeinstead. com/250 or call 256-883-3080.

Glass Installers & Construction Laborers Experience Preferred but Not Required Pay w/o Experience $10.oo Per Hour Higher Rates for Experienced Installers (256)353-9181 (Decatur, AL)

KDC Properties, Inc. 256-355-9090 P.O. Box 987 Decatur, AL 35602 kdcpropertiesinc.com J. Wesley Cain, AL #286; TN #6499

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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Marshall’s Concrete Driveways, Sidewalks, Patios, Slabs, Pressure Washing **Free Estimates** **Licensed & Insured** **Commercial & Residential** 256-227-9118

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

THE MORTGAGE OUTLET, INC. •Offering Purchase/ Refinances w/CREDIT SCORES 580+ •100% CashOut & Purchase Programs •FHA Streamline–No Appraisal/Closing Cost •FHA/CONVENTIONAL/ USDA/VA Call Glenda Popwell 205755-4577 or 1-800-365-9016 GJP@ moneyoutlet.com NMLS #7371/AL#50594

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

We Buy ATVs Motorcycles & Utility Vehicles Motorsports Superstore 888-880-2277 Hamilton, AL

Quality Correctional Health Care has several nursing opportunities in Moulton. For more information and to apply, please visit http://qchcweb. applicantpro.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 256-4125392 Mon-Fri. 8am-5pm, Sat. 8am-12pm TED MILLS Heating & A/C Service & Change out $65 Summer Service Free Estimates 256-412-5408 Town Hill Mini Storage 160 Units Vacancies All Sizes 256-332-9928 MANUFACTURED HOMES MOBILE HOMES with land.

Ready to move in. Owner financing with approved credit. 3 bdrm., 2 bath. No renters.

1-205-289-8899 VMFhomes.com Become a Dental Asst. in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website capstonedentalassisting. com or call (205) 561-8118 and get your career started!

Full Time & PRN Positions Available for LPNs & RNs, 12 hour shifts with every other weekend off! Rewarding career.

Excellent Healthcare Benefits. 401K. EOE. Apply in person!

Woodland Village Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center 1900 Olive St. SW, Cullman, AL 35056 256-739-1430

Madison Living 1

Take a stand for healthier legs Our vein specialists use minimally-invasive techniques to treat: — Varicose veins

— Leg pain, aching, cramping or fatigue

— Restless legs

— Leg ulcers, open wounds or sores

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— Burning or itching on the legs

We now offer sclerotherapy to treat spider veins.

Call (256) 265-VEIN for more information or to schedule an evaluation.

Visit us at our convenient new location!

8371 Hwy. 72 W., Suite 100 · Madison, AL 35758 madisonALhospital.org/veincenter