Madison Living Magazine - September 2021

MADISON LIVING THE GUIDE • AROUND TOWN • CHAMBER CONNECTIONS • OUT & ABOUT • RICKY SHACK

September 2021 / $4.95 madisonlivingmagazine.com

A look at the new

Home Place Park

Lacrosse

One of America’s fastest growing sports has found a place in Madison schools

The Song Engineer Jarrod Barrier “engineers” songs from his unique style of writing

ALSO INSIDE From the Mayor Around Town with Lee Marshall Out & About Madison City Schools The Ricky Shack Chamber News Upcoming events and much more

Madison Living 1

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Madison Living 3

Alison James John Few

MADISON CONTRIBUTORS MADISON Gregg Parker LIVING LIVING Bob Labbe

EDITORIAL Richard George EDITOR Rebekah Martin Joshua Berry JohnJames Few Alison Erin Coggins John Few Lee Marshall CONTRIBUTORS Mayor Paul Finley Bob Labbe CONTRIBUTORS MaryGregg LynneParker Wright Parker MaryGregg Anne Swanstrom Erin Coggins Bob Labbe Joshua Berry Richard George Erica DeSpain MARKETING Joshua Berry MaryCounts Anne Donna Erin Coggins Swanstrom Lee Marshall Lee Marshall ADMINISTRATIVE Mayor Paul Finley Mary Lynne Wright Sierra Jackson Richard George Mary Lynne Wright French Salter Mayor Finley Mary AnnePaul Swanstrom

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by Madison Madison Publications, 4 Madison Living

4 Madison Living

and Dadeville, followed by a stop in Opelika before landing in north Alabama. She loves sharing the stories – and correcting the grammar of those stories – of the people and places that make north Alabama such a special place.

...

CONTRIBUTORS John Few, Editor Alison James, copy editor

John Few hasearned been in thebachelor’s field of newspaper journalism at and production for over 25 Alison James her degree in journalism Auburn University, years. Johninhas served staffher writer, editor and publisher for a variety of publications graduating 2012.

She as began career in community journalism in Alexander City in Alabama and Mississippi.

He was transferred 2009 toinbegin coverage of loves and Dadeville, followed by a stop in Opelika beforeinlanding northhis Alabama.

She Madison. covering thecorrecting City of Madison the past 10 years, John onplaces sharing theIn stories – and the grammar of those stories – ofhas the reported people and several key events, such as construction of the Hogan Family YMCA and James that make north Alabama such a special place.

Clemens High School. Over the years, as Madison has grown, John has been there to cover the news that has made Madison home. Together John and his wife, Lori, have seven children, ranging from 15-23 years old.

John Few, contributing writer Bob Labbe, contributing writer

Bob Labbe is abeen lifelong resident the Huntsville community.

He has beenfor innearly the local John Few has in the field ofofnewspaper journalism and production 25 news media for served 48 years, journalistTimes, in television, radio and print years.

John has as a multi-award-winning staff writer for The Demopolis the daily newspaper media. is a member of thefor Huntsville-Madison County HallGazette. of FameHe and has in West He Alabama, and editor the weekly newspaper theAthletic Black Belt was been nominated for to both the his Alabama Press Association Alabama of transferred in 2009 begin coverage of Madison.

Inand covering the Music City ofhalls Madison fame.

Bob hosted radio program, The Years,such for 29 on WLRH-FM the past 10 has years, Johna has reported onReelin’ severalinkey events, asyears construction of the Public Family Radio. He has also a local highHigh school basketball for 28 years andhas was Hogan YMCA and been James Clemens School.

Overreferee the years, as Madison a high school football 15 years.

Bob is anhas avidmade sportsMadison fan and home. collector of 45 grown, John has been referee there tofor cover the news that Together rpm records.

He once boxed Ali and was from the reporter who asked John and his wife, Lori, haveMuhammad seven children, ranging 15-23 years old. the famed Paul Bear Bryant his last question as coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide.

Gregg Parker, contributing writer Bob Labbe, contributing writer

A graduate Mississippi State Gregg Parker relocated to Madison with Bob Labbe isof a lifelong resident ofUniversity, the Huntsville community.

He has been in the local Intergraph Corporation 1990 with wife Brenda and son For radio 15 years news media for 48 years, ainmulti-award-winning journalist in Andy. television, andGregg print wrote for Spirit” “Limestone Spirit” sections in “The Times.” media.

He “Madison is a member of theand Huntsville-Madison County Athletic HallHuntsville of Fame and has His articles havefor been in numerous chamber of Alabama commerce publications, been nominated bothpublished the Alabama Press Association and Music halls of “Southern Family Magazine” and “Life on the Gregg considers a privilege to fame.

Bob has hosted a radio program, Reelin’ inWater.”

The Years, for 29 years onitWLRH-FM document Madison’s coming age high in hisschool hundreds of articles forfor “The Madison Public Radio.

He has also been aoflocal basketball referee 28 years and was andfootball “Madison Living” magazine.

Gregg spoiling his collector rescue dachshund, aRecord” high school referee for 15 years. Bob is an enjoys avid sports fan and of 45 rpm Francis He Underwood Parker; binge-watching Netfl series;and andwife records. once boxed Muhammad Ali and was theix reporter whovisiting asked Andy the famed Paul Saadia, bothhis physicians, in Nashville, Bear Bryant last question as coach ofTenn. the Alabama Crimson Tide.

Erin Coggins, Gregg Parker, contributing contributing writer

AErin graduate of is Mississippi University, Gregg Madison High with Coggins a scholasticState journalism adviser andParker historyrelocated teacher attoSparkman Intergraph in 1990 withand wifepublic Brenda and son Andy. ForHer 15 years Gregg School. SheCorporation is also a freelance writer relations consultant. writing muse is wrote “Madison Spirit” and “Limestone “The Huntsville Times.”

Worldfor War II war correspondent Ernie Pyle,Spirit” whom sections she fell ininlove with while a student His articles have been published in numerous chamberErin of commerce publications, studying communications at the University of Alabama. and her husband Jamie “Southern Family Magazine” and “Life on the Water.” Gregg considers it a privilege reside in Madison. to document Madison’s coming of age in his hundreds of articles for “The Madison Record” and “Madison Living” magazine. Gregg enjoys spoiling his rescue dachshund, Francis Underwood Parker; binge-watching Netflix series; and visiting Andy and wife Saadia, both physicians, in Nashville, Tenn.

Erin Coggins, writer Joshua Berry, contributing photographer

Erin Coggins a scholastic journalism adviser and teacher at Sparkman High Joshua Berryishas a degree in biology and works fullhistory time as an aquatic instructor for the School.

She is also aHe freelance writer public relations consultant.

Herdistances. writing muse is City of Huntsville. is also an avidand runner, ranging from short to long When World War II war correspondent Ernie Pyle, whom he sheenjoys fell in trying love with while a the student he’s not spending time with his wife and daughter, to capture perfect studying theowner University of Alabama.

Erin andhis heradvice husband Jamie momentcommunications on his camera. Asatthe of Everlong Photography, for beautiful reside in Madison. pictures is that nothing looks better than being confi dent in oneself.

Joshua Berry, photographer Joshua Berry has a degree in biology and works full time as an aquatic instructor for the City of Huntsville. He is also an avid runner, ranging from short to long distances. When he’s not spending time with his wife and daughter, he enjoys trying to capture the perfect moment on his camera. As the owner of Everlong Photography, his advice for beautiful pictures is that nothing looks better than being confident in oneself.

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15 THE SONG ENGINEER Jarrod Barrier is a mechanical engineer by trade, but he is also “engineers” songs from his unique style of writing

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33 LACROSSE One of America’s fastest growing sports has found a place in Madison schools

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7 The Guide 21 From The Mayor 24 Shopping 32 Around Town 44 Madison City Schools 46 Out & About 55 The Ricky Shack 60 MCC Connections

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THE GUIDE

Let There Be Music • Old Black Bear Brewery • Downtown Madison • Thursday nights starting at 6 p.m.

MVP and Madison Arts Council are collaborating to support the arts in Madison and to raise funds to help construction of a performance pavilion in Home Place Park, the new outdoor amphitheater. The ”Let There Be Music” concerts will be presented through September at 6 p.m. on Old Black Bear’s patio in downtown Madison, 212 Main St. The scheduled bands for September include: September 9 - The PMB, September 16 - Calypso Vision (above), September 23 - Bordertown, and September 30 - The Zooks.

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THE GUIDE

Madison City Farmers Market Madison City Farmers Market, open every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon, is the area’s original local, producer-only farmers market, founded in 2007. Everything sold at the market is grown or crafted by local farmers and craftspeople. The vendors provide a wide selection of the freshest local veggies, fruits, cheese, eggs, meats, milk, herbs, honey, jams, relishes, home-baked goods, plants and flowers. The Madison City Farmers Market is Located at 1088 Hughes Road, Madison at Trinity Baptist Church. Check online for more information and updates: www.madisoncityfarmersmarket.com

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Tribute Night for September 11 Join the Rocket City Trash Pandas at Toyota Field on Sept. 11 beginning at 2 p.m. for a special night as they honor our heroes, both locally and nationally. The USA Patriots Amputee Team returns for the Tribute Night softball game and fireworks on the 20th anniversary of 9/11. A postgame performance by Brandon Elder will follow the fireworks. Tickets are $10 per person. Go to www.trashpandasbaseball.com.

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THE GUIDE

Night Blooms • ALL MONTH • Huntsville Botanical Garden • www.hsvbg.org Enter Night Blooms: a botanical dreamscape where flowers glow from within, birds and insects flit across the night sky, and light transforms the landscape into a new world, waiting to be explored! Night Blooms will lead you on a one-mile walking journey through the Garden in the evening. As you make your way through the Garden, you will discover vignettes of botanical lanterns integrated into the natural surroundings. From poppies and orchids to turtles and spiders, Night Blooms will show you just how extraordinary a walk through the Garden can be. Come see the Garden in a new light and experience your environment like never before, only at Night Blooms!

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THE GUIDE

Crush Wine and Food Festival • September 25 • Big Spring Park East, Huntsville • www.crushwinefestival.com Huntsville’s seventh annual Crush Wine & Food Festival will be held Sept. 25. After taking off in 2020, the Crush Wine and Food Festival is returning to downtown Huntsville’s Big Spring Park East. The Festival from Homegrown Huntsville is a 2019 winner of Top Twenty Events from the Southeast Tourism Society. Its main event is a wine festival on Saturday evening that offers 150 wine labels for patrons to taste. You can hear local music playing on the stages all night. Food trucks will offer wine inspired menus for guests to purchase. Go to www.crushwinefestival.com for more information.

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MUSIC

THE SONG ENGINEER Jarrod Barrier is a mechanical engineer by trade, but he is also “engineers” songs from his unique style of writing STORY BY AVA MALONE PHOTOS BY JOSHUA BERRY

Madison Living 15

16 Madison Living

J

Jarrod Barrier is a mechanical engineer by trade, working in the space division of Dynetics. He’s also a writer of music where he “engineers” songs from his unique style of writing.

The 49 year old, Madison resident’s music has been inspired by artists like John Prine, Willie Nelson, the Bee Gees and the Eagles. Leaning toward Southern Rock, his compositions include “Crossing Dixie,” “Alabama Blues” and “Redneck Hippie,” all covered by the late country music singer, Wayne Mills.

Music is in his blood. Barrier’s grandfather was a musician, his father and uncle were also musicians so it appears that the artistic talent is passing from generation to generation. At age 12 he began paving his own way by learning to play the guitar by ear and writing songs by the time he was 19.

“I can’t read sheet music so, I take the songs and run through them over and over again until it feels right,” said Barrier. “It’s the repetition of playing my ideas that finally gets the song completed.”

Barrier’s sights weren’t only on creating music as he also pursued a career in mechanical engineering by earning a degree in 2003 from The University of Alabama. His hard work paid off and he was hired by Navistar Inc. as their senior manufacturing engineer and later went to work for

Mercedes (MBUSI) as a processing and manufacturing engineer. He’s now employed in the space division of Dynetics where he helps manufacture and build the products used in the space industry.

While in school, Barrier met his future wife, Miranda, and the two of them had three children together- Elijah, 21, Ian, 19 and Ellen, 15 who is currently a student and cheerleader at Bob Jones High School.

In 2013, after a battle with cancer, Miranda passed away and with his loss, Barrier’s perspective on life changed. His music took on a more melancholy tone. “I write what I feel and the important things in life became more apparent,” said Barrier. “After her passing, I opened up my feelings, started writing and recording more. Initially, it was grief type songs.

My songs have evolved through the years.”

Barrier has composed approximately 150 songs. Writing alone, the lyrics come to him from out of the blue. Many times he is inspired by what he sees as he travels saying he hums the tempo with the lyrics until he gets to his guitar where he completes his song. His technique is somewhat different as he can’t read music, thus relying on his own unique style.

For the last four years, Barrier has been devoting some of his time to helping Executive Director, Mary McDonald at

Madison Living 17

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Decatur’s Princess Theatre and when he’s not performing, he’s working with Technical Director, Penny Linville, as the sound engineer for the singer-songwriter series and according to Barrier, “If something needs to be fixed, I fix it.”

So, while Barrier works fulltime in the space industry, raises his three children as a single parent and assists at the Princess Theatre, his songs continue to rise from his soul and his life experiences and occasionally can be heard radiating from the second floor venue of the more than 100-year old River City structure… not just for his ears, but for all to hear.

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Madison Living 19

Barrier performs his music at a variety of venues around the Tennessee Valley including the Princess Theatre. Wherever there are lovers of music, willing to listen, Barrier will play the tunes and lyrics he has created in the hopes that it reaches the hearts and souls of those who listen.

Barrier takes pride in the fact that he writes alone. Of the numerous songs he has written, many have been lost over the years. He also added, “I don’t write with others very often but, I am open to their perspectives and ideas.” Occasionally, he performs with other songwriters at benefit concerts where they perform their songs together.

Spending time with his family is a priority so he can sometimes be found on a wake board, fishing or skiing on the Wilson Lake where his parents live. All in all, life is good. In his words, “I’m blessed and have had a great life with challenges.”

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Paul Finley Mayor City of Madison

Most families in Madison have fond memories at Kids Kingdom. I have personal appreciation for the park, as that particular volunteer project kickstarted my own civic involvement in our city. I remember community members and devoted parents giving their time and resources to make a welcome environment for kids to play.

Now, over twenty-four years after those memories, Kids Kingdom is due for some renovations. The goal is to not only renovate the park, but also create a universally

inclusive space to allow children to play, learn and grow together! Madison Visionary Partners along with the Madison City Disability Advocacy Board are heading up the project, and I want to encourage our residents to participate in a “win-win” activity.

The City of Madison is now teaming up with our area Fleet Feet to encourage a healthy community. A perfect way for you to engage and give back is to sign up for the Madison Mayor’s Challenge 5k/10k and 1

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Kids Kingdom today mile fun run. Proceeds from the Mayor’s community. This year serves as the inaugural Mayor’s Challenge race, Challenge will go directly toand we are excited to offer an wards upgrades to Kid’s Kingannual event that will support dom park. Participating in the service projects around the race offers benefits across the City for years to come. board as we prioritize health Registration for the Madias an initiative in Madison; son Mayor’s Challenge is now racers will feel a sense of peropen, with the race set for Sepsonal accomplishment, and also have a direct positive impact on our tember 26th at Palmer Park along the

Bradford Creek Greenway on a certified course. Interested participants can get more information at www.madisonal. gov, as well as the Huntsville/Madison Fleet Feet website and store locations.

Whether you choose to walk, run, or race during the Mayor’s Challenge…

Madison will be better with your participation!

-Mayor Paul Finley

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NEW PLACES

HOME PLACE PARK New park expands downtown’s scope with outdoor venue for fine arts and gatherings STORY BY GREGG PARKER PHOTOS BY WILLIAM AYCOCK

Madison Living 27

A

Adjacent to downtown Madison, an underused tract of acreage is transitioning into a public space that promises to broaden options for the performing arts.

The City of Madison approved renovation of Home Place Park, located south of downtown and west of Madison City Schools Stadium. The space formerly was the neighborhood park for Home Place subdivision.

With new amphitheater seating and other improvements, visitors will enjoy outdoor theatrical performances and other events. “This park is a connection from our historic downtown to our MCS Stadium and works to expand our downtown livability. It’s also adjacent to the new Avenues of Madison (upscale apartments),” Samantha Magnuson, the city’s Communications Specialist, said.

“Prior, the park was a grassy space with old playground equipment that wasn’t used frequently. The renovation project will provide walking paths, amphitheater seating, updated landscaping suited for concert space and other events,” Magnuson said. The park’s property covers 2.3 acres.

“Any downtown events, such as Madison Street Festival and Christmas parades, may also use the space to expand their events. The park will provide more green space for residents to walk and enjoy,” Magnuson said. “The amphi-

28 Madison Living

theater will seat up to 800, but our Planning Department expects upwards of 500 comfortably.”

“I’m excited about Home Place Park,” Connie Spears said. Spears represents District 2 on Madison City Council.

“Home Place Park is a wonderful expansion to our parks and recreation network.”

“The park will provide a new venue for performances and add more opportunities for outdoor activities within our city,” Spears said. “Its proximity to downtown is ideal. It offers opportunities to expand the Madison Street Festival and opens the door for even more.”

Karen Denzine, City Council member for District 6, is “thrilled Home Place Park will soon be bringing joy to our community! I envision the park being a place of family fun throughout the year.”

Denzine especially is anticipating the location of Madison Arts Council’s “Let There Be Music, Madison!” series of concerts with local vocalists and instrumentalists. “Attending these concerts always brings a smile to my face,” she said.

The Let There Be Music, Madison! concerts this year resulted from partnering between Madison Visionary Partners or MVP and Madison Arts Council to support the arts and raise funds for a performance pavilion in Home Place

Bailey Erickson, Tina Clark, Liz Brinton and Alice Lessmann having fun at the first Let There Be Music, Madison concert. More photos from the concert series is page 31.

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AMT Integrated Solutions has been a presenting sponsor in 2021 for Let There Be Music, Madison.

“MVP and MAC will continue to work together to support fundraising efforts for more arts and culture programming in the park,” MVP Executive Director Liz Brinton said. “We feel so grateful to the city for providing a wonderful place for these sorts of events to occur . . . in Madison without having to drive all the way to Huntsville.”

“Madison is about coming together as a community.

Home Place Park will be a great place for neighbors and families to come together and celebrate living in our great city,” Denzine said.

“I wish to thank everyone involved in the design and construction of Home Place Park,” Denzine said. “It’s so timely, given our current desire to gather safely outdoors whenever possible. The park will bring joy to our community for years to come.”

For more information, visit madisonal.gov or mvpmadison.org.

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Park. During park construction, Old Black Bear is hosting 2021 concerts on Thursdays through September.

“Other possibilities may include art festivals spotlighting the talent of our local artists and ‘A Taste of Madison’ event showcasing the culinary diversity of our local eateries,” Denzine aid. “Perhaps our schools and clubs could do outdoor theatre productions! The possibilities are endless.”

By mid-summer 2021, work crews needed three weeks of consistently dry weather to finish. That scenario would allow construction to have finished in late August, Magnuson said.

The city plans to improve the property with berms (some with wildflowers), open space and paths that connect to the Home Place neighborhood and to Madison City Schools Stadium, along with lighting for pedestrians. A small pavilion, 16 feet square, will have a water fountain.

South of Shorter Street, a parallel parking bay with electrical hookups and lighting will accommodate food trucks.

The project will be ADA-accessible. Individuals can walk or bike ride to the park because of its proximity to neighborhoods, downtown and new multi-family housing.

To build an outdoor pavilion in Home Place Park, the fundraising goal is $250,000. Philanthropy levels vary greatly: • Park Sponsor -- $200,000.

• Pavilion Sponsor -- $50,000.

• Concert Sponsor – A company or a family can sponsor a performance at the amphitheater for $1,500.

• Equipment Sponsor – Donations can help to purchase equipment or furnishings for the park, including the designation for Picnic Pavilion, $20,000; Picnic Table, $3,000; and Park Bench, $1,500.

• Patron of the Arts in Madison – For $300, a donor will see his or her name commemorated on a pathway in the park.

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....................... AROUND TOWN .......................

Kids to Love - a Licensed Child Placement Agency

...

Lee Marshall

Founder / CEO Kids to Love Foundation

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The very first thing Kids to Love set out to do 17 years ago was to find families for children living in foster care. Now we are fulfilling that promise in a new way.

We are excited to share with you that Kids to Love is now an approved Child Placement Agency, able to license foster families and match them with children who need a safe and loving home.

Why does this matter? Because at this minute there are 6,358 children living in Alabama’s foster care system and only 2,294 foster homes available. The need is significant. By becoming a child placement agency Kids to Love will be able to offer home – and renewed hope – to children who desperately

need it.

Here’s how: 1) Our Child Placement Agency will increase the number of homes ready to care for children living in the foster care system.

2) Our Child Placement Agency will reduce the number of children placed in group homes or facilities.

3) Our Child Placement Agency will allow Kids to Love to serve and support our children and families in more holistic and personal ways.

Kids to Love has always held a commitment to change the lives of foster children and families. This next step allows us to serve at a new level and we can’t wait to get started!

SPORTS

LACROSSE

One of America’s fastest growing sports has found a place in Madison schools STORY BY BOB LABBE PHOTOS BY JOSHUA BERRY

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“

The sport of lacrosse began by Native American Indians as “stickball” and is regarded as the oldest sport in North America dating back hundreds of years. Today, lacrosse is one of the fastest growing sports in America, especially in the South. The game is one of finesse, but very physical across the board of skills needed to play for both boys and girls.

“It’s a tough sport, but worth it,” said Lauren Merschat, a 15-year old sophomore at James Clemens High, which is home to the local girls lacrosse team in the immediate - Lauren Merschat Madison area. “It’s very physical. I carry my game bruises like battle scars.”

James Clemens is also home to a boys team while crosstown at Bob Jones is a boys squad led by 12-year head coach Paul Burke who founded the lacrosse program in 2010. All tually easier now to recruit players as more families have three squads are regarded as a club sport as lacrosse has grown up playing lacrosse. The biggest challenge is lacrosse yet to be sanctioned by the Alabama High School Athletic is a relatively new sport in the Madison area.”

Ashtyn Hiron is a familiar face on local TV as she’s a reAssociation. The team roster at Bob Jones consists of 44 boys on the varsity and junior varsity combined. In the just porter/anchor for WHNT-19 News. The Australia native completed 2021 spring season, the Bob Jones varsity was came to the United States to attend college at Jacksonville University of Florida where she earned a scholarship to 5-8 while the JV was a perfect 5-0.

“For most of our players lacrosse is a new sport and we play lacrosse. She was an All-Conference player and has use instructional style of coaching,” said Burke, 50. “It’s ac- played in three World Cups for the Australian National

It’s a tough sport, but worth it.

It’s very physical. I carry my

game bruises like battle scars.

”

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Team. She, too, understands the newness of lacrosse in the area as she’s the head coach of the girls team at James Clemens.

“I accepted the position as head coach this season after being the assistant coach a year ago,” said the 23year old Hiron. “I’m glad I did as I love to coach inexperienced players. Lacrosse presents to the players and I as a coach comradery, competition and friendships.

In girls lacrosse, the physicality is not as prominent as in boys action and the hardest thing for me to teach the girls is the aggressiveness it takes to play the sport well.

Many of the girls are not very aggressive.”

The James Clemens girls team is similar to the boys squad where players from different schools join the team where they carry the Jets’ banner in lacrosse. At last check, the team had 19 players on its roster. The recent season ended with James Clemens having a 3-11 record as most games were played in Birmingham and Auburn as part of the Greater Birmingham Youth Lacrosse Association.

For those who are familiar with the sport, a team fields 12 players on the field with the object of getting a rubber ball into the net or goal with each player using a stick with a net on the end. Players can run, carry, catch, shoot and pass the ball with the net of the stick.

The playing field is similar in size to football.

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Merschat plays both lacrosse and volleyball at James Clemens. Her parents looked for a secondary sport to be diversified in her athletic activities and saw on Facebook about the local lacrosse teams. She admitted she did not know the sport when she first approached the outdoor activity, but quickly fell in love with the overall makings of lacrosse.

“It’s a sport where you have to have eye-hand coordination and is physically demanding, but well worth it,” said Merschat. “I’ve always played team sports as we all motivate each other. We have fun. I remember playing in the snow during a game.”

Jessica Reese is a senior at nearby John Paul II High School and has played lacrosse since her freshman year.

She joined the James Clemens squad after moving to Madison and said, “Lacrosse has taught me about teamwork, facing adversity and friendship. I’m so thankful that I chose to play. Some of my happiest moments have been when I play in a game.”

Dwight Ware III is a recent 2021 graduate of Bob Jones and is now attending Auburn University where he plans on playing for Auburn’s club lacrosse team. He and his family moved to Madison from the Washington D.C. area two years ago where he played for an elite high school lacrosse

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team and now considers himself one of the more gifted players in Alabama.

“I’m drawn to the sport I’ve played for nine years by the uniqueness of the stick and use of the stick in playing,” said Ware, Bob Jones’ leading scorer and Alabama All-Star selection for 2021. “The spirit of the game is great. I tell others this is not a mainstream sport, but is fun fulfilled.

True athleticism is there. I highly recommend it for others to try.”

Ware’s father, Dwight II, said of the sport from a parent’s perspective, “It’s a sport you can play at different levels. Lacrosse gets our youth out onto the field and builds them physically and enhances character. Quick decision making is a key.”

The average cost of a playing stick is $100 and players wear protective equipment such as face goggles, helmets and a mouth guard. Hiron said they have hosted open come and play practices at James Clemens in an attempt to have more players involved.

“Everyone is welcome. I can teach you how to play and find a place for everyone,” said Hiron. “The sport is fastpaced, very athletic and a player must be versatile as the efforts require strength, agility, speed and endurance.”

PEOPLE

MARIAH GULLATTE Local designer chosen to design 2022 World Games costumes STORY BY ERIN COGGINS

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At her sixteenth birthday party, Harvest resident and Sparkman High graduate, Mariah Gullatte debuted her own clothing line, Princess Closet Design. This was normal for Gullatte who has made fabric, needles and thread the center of her life.

Fast forward a few years and Gullatte, an Auburn graduate with a bachelor’s in apparel design and product management and a master’s in hospitality management, is making her first mark on the apparel business.

Gullatte was chosen to design the mascot costumes for the upcoming World Games to be held in Birmingham in July 2022.

“I placed a bid on the World Games’ vendor site and showcased some of my designs,” Gullatte said. “They liked them and offered me the job.”

The first initial creative meeting took place via Zoom in December 2020. Gullatte was shown drawings of the Vulcan and his female companion, Vesta in order to get to the know the characters she would be dressing.

“We discussed some initial concepts in the meeting and as well as the ideas they were looking to see,” Gullatte said. “Next, I really got to know the characters by reading history, learning what they teach at Vulcan

Park as well as the history of the World Games.”

After understanding the history behind the Vulcan Gullatte knew that she wanted the costumes to reflect the time period of the mascots. She looked it the designs as representing a god and goddess in the times of forging steel. She also had to incorporate the games’ logo.

“I designed a linen A-line dress for Vesta. I wanted her to be feminine and have a family friendly design.

She created a faux apron for the Vulcan,” Gullatte said.

“I used natural products that they would have used in the times like leather, metal and linen. I will admit the leather was trying.”

Gullatte said the project culminated in the wee hours of July 7, just days before being presented at the World Games press conference.

“This project was everything that makes me happy.

Besides being a fun opportunity, designing these costumes was a great way to get my name out there as designer,” Gullatte said. “It helps career wise, especially when I want to start my own boutique one day.”

Designing the costumes may be Gullatte’s way of getting her name out to the fashion world, but her passion and study of fashion is constantly being nourished. She

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credits her mother first for teaching her how to sew.

“My mom has the same degree from Alabama A&M University,” Gullatte said. “She was always making something. When I was little I was always playing with fabrics.

When it came time to choose a degree, I said to myself ‘I love doing it, so why not do it.”

As a student at Auburn, Gullatte participated in the Viva Italia program where she spent three months studying the fashion and entertainment industry in Italy. This time abroad also allowed her to obtain a minor in human services.

“I got to see how the industry works in another country. We visited apparel merchants, buyers and designers,” Gullatte said.

“In America, we tend to use modern software to create and design. It was impressive to see the roots of seamstresses and designers and their construction of clothing—how they immerse themselves in fabric.”

Gullatte has established her esthetic and clearly expresses it in the title of her brand, Princess Closet Designs.

“I have always loved British royalty and my childhood nickname was princess,” Gullatte said. “I like to design clothes that make women feel royal, chic, modern, confident and a little sexy. I also like a lot of pink.”

She has ideas for making clothes more sustainable and environmentally friendly as well, reconstructing old garments from thrift stores to something new and fresh.

She also hopes to create a men’s wear line to feature in her online and future brick and mortar establishment one day.

“Designing is something I could do for free. I love it that much,” Gullatte said.

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....................... Madison City Schools .......................

Schools Superintendent Dr. Ed Nichols (far right) with PTA officers (L-R): Stephenie Walker and Terrie Regensburger (co-vice presidents), Heather Gjesvold (treasurer) Sarita Edwards (secretary) and P.J. Batchelor (president).

PTAs a driving force in the success of Madison City Schools

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Everychild. Onevoice is the motto of the National Parent Teacher Association (PTA).

It is also a guiding principle of PTAs for Madison City Schools, whose members put their hearts and souls in their schools so students can thrive.

The chief role of the PTA is to build strong working relationships among parents, teachers and schools in supJohn Peck port of students.

Madison City Schools PTAs are one of the cornerstones Public Relations to the storied success of Madison City Manager Schools. They were on the front lines of the movement to separate from Madison County Schools to become an independent school

...

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district in 1998. They also led the recent grassroots campaign for the 12-mill tax referendum to build new schools. And they remain a guiding force today.

With September being PTA membership month, now is a good time to join your school’s PTA if you have not done so already. Membership is generally under $10 and sends the message that parent involvement is valued at your school.

Every school in the Madison City School district has a strong PTA that remains actively involved. Each chapter is under the umbrella of the Madison City Council of PTAs, directed by president Patricia “P.J.” Batchelor. Other officers are: Stephenie Walker and Terrie Regensburger (co-vice presidents), Heather Gjesvold (treasurer), and Sarita Edwards (secretary).

Madison City Schools Superintendent Dr. Ed Nichols addressed the PTA officers at the beginning of the school year.

....................... Madison City Schools .......................

PTAs purchased touchless water fountains for several schools, including this one at BOB JONES. Principal Sylvia Lambert with junior Nathaniel Jasper.

PTAs routinely help with playground equipment replacements and spruce ups, like this mulch at Madison Elementary.

PTAs often do appreciation gatherings for teachers and bus drivers, like this thank you for bus drivers at Horizon Elementary and this schoolwide event at Columbia Elementary.

He said PTAs are vital to the success of any school system.

“This group does so much for our district that I am deeply grateful for. They play a key role in hosting events, supporting our teachers, informing the school community, raising funds…the list goes on. I encourage everyone in our school family to consider joining the PTA of your child’s school(s).”

The Madison City Council of PTAs incorporates these six standards of the National PTA. 1: Welcoming all families (example: sponsoring Meet The Principal Day for newcomers or helping with new student orientation).

2: Communicating effectively through newsletters, social media, websites etc., to keep parents informed and perhaps advocate with city leadership and the state Legislature.

3: Supporting students success through school supply drives, special school fund-raisers, student awards like the national Reflections Arts Contest, etc.

4: Speaking up for every child. PTA’s mission is to make

every child’s potential a reality. This is best done by engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children.

5: Sharing power – making people understand that everyone has a role to play, whether it be working the carline or duty free lunch, being a Kindergarten room mom, becoming a member, or giving financially. Any gesture of giving back counts.

6: Collaborating with community; reaching out to individuals and local businesses who want to help schools.

There’s an even new way to participate. If you desire to go the extra mile for Madison City Schools, consider joining ALL of the MCS PTAs as a Madison Mega Member. Community leaders, local businesses, and Madison residents can be part of the PTA story for a $100 membership fee that makes you a card-carrying PTA member at each school.

More details on the Madison City Schools PTA at www.mcspta.square.site.

Madison Living 45

OUT&ABOUT

GLOW RUN - The annual Glow Run 5K to benefit the Downtown Rescue Mission (DRM) was held Aug. 14 in Cummings Research Park. Together, the runners and sponsors raised over $80,000 for the Mission. “We were overwhelmed by the generosity of this community and the almost 1,600 people who signed up to participate. Some of our residents ran the race, and it meant so much to them to see how many people came out to share their love and support,” a social media post from the DRM said. Here are some photos shared by the DRM of the fun at the Glow Run. For more information about the Downtown Rescue Mission, go to www.downtownrescuemission.org.

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OUT&ABOUT

BACK-TO-SCHOOL ADVICE - With school back in session, these men and women at ChristyCare in Madison shared some wise advise for the younger generation. ChristyCare is a senior day care that enable seniors to socialize with others while still receiving needed care services. Fore more information, go to www.christy.care.

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OUT&ABOUT

TRASH PANDAS FAN EXPERIENCE - The Rocket City Trash Pandas have brought huge crowds to Toyota Field in Madison for their home games and special events this season. They are now in the final stretch of their first season. Here are some fan photos shared by the Trash Pandas. For more about upcoming games and events, go to www.trashpandasbaseball.com.

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OUT&ABOUT

MADISON STATION HISTORICAL PRESERVATION SOCIETY PICNIC - Madison Station Historical Preservation Society members enjoyed fellowship, barbecue and decadent desserts during their annual picnic on July 29 at the home of Dennis Vaughn on Front Street in downtown Madison. “For the first time in many years, the historical society cancelled the picnic in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, so we were excited to gather for our annual summer picnic again in person for 2021,” Acting President Debbie Overcash said. Pictured above are the Vaughn and Nichols families. You can read more about the Madison Station Historical Preservation Society at www.themadisonrecord.com.

Goodson, Smith, Nola and Johnson families

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Kids at the picnic doing what they do best -- having fun.

Debbie Overcash, President MSHPS with long time Madison resident, member of Historic Society and Commission and host, Dennis Vaughn

Sensenberger, Hall and Lemond families

Wroblewski, Campbell and McDaniel families

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AT THE RICKY SHACK

SEC Football Tailgating - Patio Style

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By Richard George @ricky_shack

Summer yard work is still a weekly and challenging event, deer-field conservation work continues at the deer camp, BBQ contests are in full swing across the nation.

With the end of summer approaching and the school year about to get into full swing, you might turn your attention to SEC Football.

So, let’s plan on a full day of fun, family, food and football. I have again enlisted my brother-in-law, Mike Strain (MLM June Fish Fry) to host our first 2021 Patio Style Family Fest. You can see in the photo his patio is not only family friendly but set up like the Ricky Shack for multiple cooking options. We enjoy visiting them and cooking together.

On an SEC football game day, it is not unusual to find our families bringing out the Mississippi State and Alabama serving pieces, glassware, napkins, and anything that represents our two teams. Our yard flags proudly fly win or lose!

We like to bring “Tailgating” that used to take place in front of Davis-Wade Stadium in Starkville, MS, to our respective homes and eat well!

Starting with Morning beverages:

Coffee You know somebody is going to want some coffee. Our

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Mike’s grandson’s Brooks and Davis Roberts like to get in on the grilling action. They agree that eating the finished product is worth the wait and is the best part.

with Hardin’s Original Seasoning and Pilleteri’s Rub-AButt. Mike prefers to place in a Hefty Aluminum Pan, cover with aluminum foil and refrigerate/marinate overnight.

Mike’s grill of choice for a Boston butt of this size is the Camp Chef Pellet Grill. Preheat the pellet grill at 5 a.m. to begin blending those wonderful aromas of cherry, hickory and pecan pellets at 220 degrees. At 6 a.m. increase the grill temperature slightly to 225 degrees.

Remove the Boston Butt from Hefty Aluminum Pan and Bloody Mary place it onto the grill for 2½ to 3 hours to begin smoke ab2 oz Vodka - your choice of brand sorption. Increase again to 250 degrees for the main cook, 4 oz Zing Zang Bloody Mary Mix ½ tsp. prepared horse radish. Stir in. Add to taste as de- which could be another 3 to 4 hours. Using your instant read meat thermometer, check periodically for the “stall” sired.

Add above mix to a 10 oz. tumbler filled with ice or con- or that period-of-time where the internal temperature never seems to increase. The stall is quite frustrating, be sider a Mason Jar (note: we married Mason girls!)

Garnish with celery stick and/or pickled okra as desired. patient.

At approximately 165 internal degrees, you can speed up Made in batches ratio is: 1 part vodka to 2 parts Zing Zang, be careful, making the batch too large can sometimes the whole cook, slightly, by removing the Boston Butt from the grill and placing back into the Hefty Aluminum Pan. allow the horseradish could get clumpy.

Cover the bottom with 2 to 3 cups apple juice, recover with foil and place back on grill at 250 degrees.

Boston Butt Time is a secondary reading; internal temperature is As an avid and seasoned Pitmaster, Mike starts his preparation with a roughly 7.5-pound Boston Butt, the night critical reading. It may take another couple of hours to before. Forget the fat trimming now. Slather with mustard, reach 205 internal degrees. This is the USDA optimal/safe inject all over with 1 to 2 cups apple juice, sprinkle liberally temperature level. choice is café Du Monde coffee and chicory, made in New Orleans, chicory from France. A shot of Kahlua can be added for that extra little something!

Mimosa 2 ½ oz of champagne… well chilled 2 ½ oz of orange juice… well chilled Stirred and served in a champagne flute. [1 to 1 ratio]

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At that magic 205 degrees, remove pan from grill, and allow the Boston Butt to REST and redistribute those wonderful natural flavors and juices throughout the meat. Place in a cooler or Cambro. I prefer an old igloo. Drop a couple of newspapers on bottom, wrap whole pan in a beach towel and wait. You can safely allow this butt to rest a couple of hours, but at least one hour!

Mike reminds me that not only does the Boston Butt get a rest, but his does also!

Final preparation is to remove and shred the meat. Many people use Bear Claws, insulated gloves or even a couple of large forks. Be careful because your meat is still hot.

Now you can enjoy this full day’s work. Mike keeps more Pilleteri’s Rub-A-Butt or other dry rubs and several sauces on hand in his collection. Try a vinegar-based Wicker’s or sweet heat Blues Hogg or a Sweet Baby Ray’s tomato-based sauce for your sandwiches or as a dip. All are wonderful.

Boston Butt on the grill -- smells so good!

Brent’s Sour Dough Breakfast Casserole Ingredients: • 1 Sourdough Round Loaf, baked • 1 lb. sage pork sausage • 7 large eggs • 12 oz cheddar cheese, shredded • 2 cups half and half • 1 tsp dry mustard • 1 tsp onion powder • ½ tsp salt • ½ tsp pepper • Nonstick cooking spray

Directions Preheat oven to 375. Prepare 9x13 baking dish by coating with nonstick cooking spray. Brown sausage in skillet. Next, drain sausage and set aside to cool.

Cut approximately ¾ of the sourdough round bread into 1-inch cubes. This should result in enough bread to fill a single layer in the baking dish.

In a large mixing bowl, combine eggs, half and half, 8 oz of cheese, dry mustard, onion powder, salt and pepper.

Spread cubed bread and cooked sausage evenly along bottom of baking dish. Add seasoned egg, cheese, and half and half mixture to baking dish.

Sprinkle remaining 4 oz of cheese evenly across casserole.

Bake for approximately 45 minutes or until the casserole is firmly set and golden brown to your preference.

Brent’s comments: I like to use a mix of cheddar cheese including mild and/or sharp varieties. I prefer a thicker cube on the bread to provide a chewy texture to balance against the soft egg and cheese filling. Regular sausage can also be used with ½ to 1 tsp of ground sage, to taste. Adding chopped or diced bell pepper is a great way to add some additional texture and flavor.

Ellie Roberts likes to help her Mimmie with the inside cooking.

www.railyardbbqfest.com

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Strain’s Potato Salad

Ingredients: • 2 lbs. Yukon Gold potatoes... (don’t use Russet baking potatoes... they are soft and crumble easily) • 1 tbsp apple cider (or white) vinegar • 2 eggs • ½ onion chopped finely • 3 stalks celery • 1 tbsp dill pickle relish • 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish • ¼ cup mayo • ¼ cup mustard • 1 tbsp salt & pepper Directions: Boil potatoes. Add 1 tbsp vinegar to potatoes after they have boiled and are sitting. Mix to coat. Add chopped up boiled eggs to the potatoes. Mix in to your taste as you add mayo, mustard, celery, onion, dill relish and sweet relish. No further cooking is needed. Place in refrigerator to chill before serving.

Mimmie’s Baked Beans Ingredients: 2 lg cans Bush beans (traditional) ¼ cup brown sugar ¼ cup mustard ¼ cup honey ½ onion chopped fine ½ bell pepper chopped fine 1lb. hamburger meat

on. Remove foil and cook for an additional 20 minutes, or until bacon is crispy and beans are bubbly.

Fried green tomatoes on the griddle Great to nibble on while enjoying the game Ingredients: • 4 green tomatoes • 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour • 2 eggs • ½ cup buttermilk (regular will do if you ain’t southern) • ½ cup cornmeal (yellow preferred but white will be fine).

• ½ cup Italian breadcrumbs • 1 tbsp Hardin’s seasoning • ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese • 1 ½ cups high smoke point cooking oil.

• Remoulade sauce Directions: Slice tomatoes between ¼ and ½ inch thick.

Place 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour in dredge plate. Combine milk and 2 eggs in second dredge plate. Combine cornmeal, bread crumbs, shredded Parmesan cheese and Hardin’s in third dredge plate. (You can substitute salt and pepper for Hardin’s). Place on platter while the griddle is warming up.

Cook on griddle Heat griddle to medium-low (about 375 to 400 F). Use high smoke point oil: Avocada, extra virgin olive oil or canola -- your choice. I prefer Avocado.

Cook on side one until you have a good golden-brown color. Drizzle cooking oil on uncooked side that is up. Flip over and cook other side to a golden brown (about 3 to 5 minutes Directions: Mix all ingredients (except hamburger) in large mixing per side). Cook until done but be careful not to overcook, bowl. Brown hamburger and drain. Mix hamburger with this makes them a little mushy.

Cook in batches. Place cooked tomatoes on the vacant mixture. Pour well mixed ingredients into a greased 13x9 Pyrex dish. Layer top with bacon and cover mixture. Cover side of griddle (preferably on a warming rack). They should stay warm while other batches cook. with foil.

Serve with remoulade sauce, or whatever you prefer.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cook for 30 minutes with foil

Editor’s note: Richard was home recovering from COVID, quarantined and progressing quite well after a few days in the hospital when working on this article. Thank goodness the Pfizer vaccines helped, he said. He also said he worked among tangling and restrictive oxygen tubes when writing. We wish him well and pray he recovers fully without any other issues.

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MADISON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CONNECTIONS

Madison Mayor’s Challenge 5K/10K and Fun Run

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The City of Madison is teaming up with Fleet Feet Madison to encourage a healthy community. Registration for the Madison Mayor’s Challenge 5k/10k and fun run is now open, and Fleet Feet is offering a training program to gear up for the event. The race is set for September 26th starting at Palmer Park.

Proceeds for the Mayor’s Challenge will go directly towards upgrades to Kid’s Kingdom park. The park was established 24 years ago and is in need of repair. The goal of community leaders is not only to renovate it, but also make the park universally inclusive to allow children to play, learn and grow together!

Participating in the Mayor’s Challenge will set reachable goals for a healthy community. Interested participants can get more information and register at the Huntsville/ Madison Fleet Feet website and store locations. For further questions, please contact suzanne@fleetfeethuntsville.com.

See page 21 for a message from Madison Mayor Paul Finley about the Challenge.

www.madisonalchamber.com

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PHONE 256-325-8317

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MADISON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CONNECTIONS

Congratulations to the following businesses for their ribbon cuttings, grand openings and ground-breakings last month.

You can follow the Madison Chamber of Commerce on Facebook to see more photos.

Ground-breaking for the new Southeastern Skin Cancer & Dermatology Center

Re-Grand Opening for Virtuous Realty Group

Grand Opening for First National Bank

www.madisonalchamber.com

60 Madison Living

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Linda Rickabaugh and Dave Rinker prepping for the Great Cycle Challenge. Photo by William Aycock

Linda Rickabaugh pursues Great Cycle Challenge to raise funds for Children’s Cancer Research

By GREGG PARKER Linda Rickabaugh hopes residents will join her quest with the Great Cycle Challenge to raise funds for Children’s Cancer Research Fund.

“I was intrigued by the biking aspect of it, but, when I investigated further, I saw all the kids’ faces who were impacted by cancer. I couldn’t say, ‘No,’” Rickabaugh said. “Plus, my husband lost a little brother when leukemia was almost a death sentence.”

In the campaign, “bike riding is a physical way of getting out and spreading awareness. It’s twofold: promoting advantages of fitness and the importance of the challenge, which is to raise money for cancer research,” she said.

Anyone interested in supporting the fundraising can visit GreatCycleChallenge.com and join.

Rickabaugh’s 2021 goal is $4,000. “Last year, I raised over $5,000, and I hope to do the same this year but at least $4,000,” she said.

She plans to ride 400 miles, an average of about 14 miles daily. “Some days I can’t ride; other days, I’ll do more,” Rickabaugh said.

“Children’s Cancer Research Fund does not dole funds

to individuals, but rather the money funds research to eradicate cancers in children, such as brain tumors and leukemia,” Rickabaugh said. “Some cancers are specific to children and not easily treated. Different groups address the treatment and funding.”

Alabama does not have any large research facilities that directly benefit from CCRF. “Certainly, we would benefit indirectly if an Alabama child were treated and ultimately cured because of knowledge and research that CCRF funds,” Rickabaugh said.

Active in volunteering, Rickabaugh has participated in outreach for March of Dimes, Knights of Columbus and her sister’s nonprofit to benefit 9-11 victims. However, her most extensive effort has been with the cancer fund.

“It’s important for individuals to give of their time and talents to benefit organizations in need,” she said.

A ‘byproduct’ of her fundraising has been bicycling’s healthy exercise. “You can definitely burn calories,” Rickabaugh said. She lost 15 pounds last year. She has enjoyed the adventure of discovering different bike baths and trails throughout Madison and Huntsville.

Individuals can donate through September to Rickabaugh’s campaign at greatcyclechallenge.com/riders/ lindarickabaugh.

Madison Living 61

Kevin Thomas heads up the barber shop located in the concourse beyond centerfield at Toyota Field during Trash Pandas games. The barber shop is full-service including haircuts and shaves for both men and women. Thomas here services patron Daniel Worsley. Photo by Bob Labbe

The best seat in the house

By BOB LABBE

bers who took the information to the Trash Pandas. Current general Manager Garrett Fahrmann contacted Thomas and actually What’s more fun than attending a Rocket City Trash Pandas visited Thomas’ home. Thomas added, “He saw the equipment I baseball game and having a hotdog, popcorn, your favorite bever- had in my garage and said, wow, you guys really do have it together. Let’s make it happen.” age and a haircut. What…a haircut?

“We strive to give our fans unique topics of conversation, What is thought to be the first of its kind in Minor League Baseball, a full-fledged, fully-stocked barber shop is located beyond whether it’s an on the field promotion or the barber shop,” said the centerfield wall at Toyota Field on the open area walk-around Fahrmann.

Fans can setup an appointment on line or call either Thomas or concourse. Opened to the public by appointments or walk-ins, the GBF Shops-Big 75 barber shop is open for business at each Trash Biffle. Those can purchase a ticket for the game and arrive for their haircut or shave or can just come for the barber’s cut and leave the Pandas’ home game.

The idea to have a barber’s chair and the necessary equipment stadium.

Daniel Worsley is one of those regular customers who sits in the to provide haircuts and shaves came in a co-idea by Kevin Thomas, 37, and Vince Biffle, 53, two longtime local barbers who also outfield barber chair. “I like it as I haven’t seen anything like it,” love baseball. When customers sit down for a quick, but expert said Worsley, 32, who works at Mazda Toyota.

Thomas and Biffle stand in unison on the endeavor and utilize trim and/or shave each has the best seat in the house.

“The outfield location is perfect as we had to show the Trash a couple additional barbers when needed. Thomas is CEO of GBF Pandas this was good for the park and they love it,” said Thomas. and Big 75 and is looking at possibly expanding to have a similar “Under our tent when it rains, people stop here and check us out location next season at the Birmingham Barons. He’s also looking as the beer station is right in front of our location. It’s the expe- at adding a location at Parkway Place. He’s indicated he’s looking rience, that’s what the people want to see what’s different at the at applying for a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records as a first in baseball. ballpark.”

“We service our clients, watch the game and take a picture of Moving to Huntsville from Birmingham to attend Alabama A&M, Thomas began cutting hair within the campus dorms even those who get a haircut and post on our website,” added Thomas.

“This idea was something that made me want to get up and come without any type of formal training. He said it was just something in his “artsy mind” that worked into something good and he just out here,” added Biffle. “When you love what you’re doin’, it’s fun.”

The clientele range in all ages with the youngest so far to sit in kept at perfecting his craft. His experience at being a barber now stands at 13 years with the last eight in Madison with his own bar- the chair was two years of age. Women have also dropped by to see what the banter is all about in centerfield. ber shop, Marvelous Cuts, located on Wall Triana.

“I cut a woman’s eyebrows one time,” said Biffle. Thomas addIronically, his first barber job came when he visited Biffle’s Better Days Barbershop in Huntsville and asked for a job. Biffle re- ed, “I cut a woman’s hair who was visiting from Florida.”

Thomas and Biffle are business partners at Toyota Field and are membered the day Thomas arrived, as he said, “He came in as a young guy and we had space available right beside me. When he best friends as well. The idea of setting up a barber shop with the came up with the idea of setting up a chair with the Trash Pandas Trash Pandas came in a dream and now reality, but the idea would I figured you just have to go for your dream. He wanted to be right have never happened if it wasn’t for a common love of cutting hair.

“I appreciate Vince giving me the opportunity of being the along with all the hype of the Trash Pandas.”

Thomas attended the groundbreaking of Toyota Field and asked greatest barber I could be,” said Thomas.

To get the best seat in the house, appointments can be made at about the possibility of having a barber’s location as it was his dream. He handed off a proposal to one of the City Council mem- gbfshops.setmore.com or by calling 256-581-5900.

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