Madison Living April 2016

April 2016

Winning family Introducing: the Ramseys, Family of the Year

On key Clarinet Choir makes beautiful music

Machine masters Students ex STEM skills through robotics

Enticing Easter Try out these recipes for an excellent Easter lunch

All about art

Mother daughter duo teaches art in MCS Madison Living 1

2 Madison Living

MANAGEMENT Alan Brown President & Publisher

22 features

EDITORIAL Alison James Editor Gregg Parker Staff Writer Jen Fouts-Detulleo Photographer MARKETING Kim Maracigan Marketing Consultant CUSTOMER SERVICE Tammy Overman Customer Service PRODUCTION Jamie Dawkins Keith McCoy Layken Gibbs Robyn Holm Design Madison Living P.O. Box 859, Madison, AL 35758 Advertising Inquiries 256.772.6677 Madison Living is published monthly by Madison Publications, LLC.

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MADISON FAMILY OF THE YEAR

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ARTS AND CULTURE MADISON CLARINET CHOIR

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EDUCATION ROBOTICS IS THE WORD FOR YOUNGSTERS

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LIMITLESS

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CHAMBER NEWSLETTER

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OUT AND ABOUT

home 4

HOME CLIFT’S COVE HOME PERFECTLY FITS THE MOORE FAMILY

food 10

LET’S EAT EASTER FEAST

Madison Living 3

HOME

4 Madison Living

Clift’s Cove home

perfectly fits the Moore family

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

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ush, green grass in an expansive, level backyard sold Dale and Tarrah Moore on their Clift’s Cove home in 2011.

The yard “is perfect for children to play a game of football or run with our dog. In the

summer, it looks just like a park,” Tarrah said. “The LEFT: Dale and Tarrah friends’ porch is so welcoming and a cool spot for Moore’s family gathers at their front door.

Popsicles when it’s warm out.”

A Master Gardener, Tarrah is happy with lawn projects. From the vegetable garden, their daughters can select cut flowers from rows of sunflowers, herbs and zinnias in summer. The Moores’ favorite plants are their hydrangeas, peonies and boxwoods.

Madison Living 5

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The Moores recently renovated their kitchen.

Seat cushions repeat the animal print of upholstered end chairs.

Custom wall art proclaims the six-member family as “super”.

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“The agapanthus (perennial known as ‘lily of the Nile’) are a treat when they bloom,” Tarrah said.

“We have beautiful maple trees that are stunning in the fall and offer much-needed spots of shade in summer.”

The traditional home of red brick has a Southern flair. The 18-room interior covers 5,103 square feet with detailed moldings throughout. “The house is large but very homey and warm,” Tarrah said.

The five-bedroom home has the master on the main floor. The master includes a sitting room with panoramic windows for optimum light and comfort.

Two of the children’s bedrooms have bookcases that open to reveal secret playrooms. “Each bedroom has lovely, unique features,” she said.

The Moores enjoy their renovated kitchen. “The kids like to cook with me, and it is spacious for us all. Since all appliances are stainless, we have a

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cabinet with a magnetic board for the children’s artwork,” Tarrah said. Their children are ages 14, 13, 6 and 1.

While mostly traditional, their furniture is an eclectic mix that they have collected over the years. Two oversized sofas in the family room allow the entire family to ‘hang out’ comfortably.

One daughter’s bedroom features a French, hand-carved armoire from the 1700s that Tarrah found in a Montgomery shop. “I have a French library table that was my grandmother’s that came from the Astor estate,” Tarrah said. “She had it 8 Madison Living

in her foyer for as long as I can remember, and it makes me happy to see it in my home.”

The Moores own a collection of leather-bound antique books from across England. “Sometimes, we find an old postcard or letter from the original owner tucked in the books – a fun glimpse into their lives and loves,” Tarrah said. They also own a respectable collection of original art from local artists and vacation locales.

Tarrah decorated the house with warm neutrals in browns, beiges and creams but jazzed with a punch of color for a fresh, light feel. All window

coverings and bedding are custom-made.

The family attends Trinity Baptist Church, where they volunteer; Tarrah teaches Sunday school. Dale has coached their sons’ sports teams for years. Tarrah volunteers at Huntsville Botanical Garden and the children’s schools.

The family enjoys traveling, hiking and riding mountain bikes and snow skis. The children stay busy with sports, dance and church activities.

Self-proclaimed “military brats,” the Moores can’t name a hometown. However, Tarrah has lived in Madison for 20 years and Dale for 16. Her

parents and sisters live in Madison, too. “We’ve loved living in Madison. You never go anywhere without running into a friend,” Tarrah said.

Dale works for Modern Technology Solutions Inc., as director of business development. The Moores are moving to Colorado Springs, Colo., with MTSI, where Dale’s responsibilities will expand as site lead. Tarrah is a consultant for Carlisle Collection, an exclusive, New York-based line of women’s apparel.

The Moore home is for sale and listed at hollymcdonald.com.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Tarrah Moore decorated the house with warm neutrals in browns, beiges and creams. The Clift’s Cove home has five bedrooms. Two of the children’s bedrooms have bookcases that open to reveal secret playrooms.

All window coverings and bedding are custommade. A zebra rug grabs attention in the foyer.

Madison Living 9

LET’S EAT

Easter feast WRITTEN BY MELISSA FRIDAY PHOTOGRAPHS BY MELISSA FRIDAY

“Melissa and Mike Friday own Woodland Homes of Huntsville in Madison, and they invite you to tune in to their television show Dream Home Cooking every Sunday morning at 9:30 a.m. on WAAY 31.”

10 Madison Living

COCA-COLA HAM 1 3-lb. boneless, fully-cooked ham 8 ounces Coca-Cola ½ cup yellow mustard 1 cup brown sugar Mix brown sugar and 1-2 tablespoons of Coke until it makes a paste. Place ham in a shallow baking dish and rub paste over ham. Pour Coke all around ham and bake 50 minutes at 350 degrees.

BLACK-EYED PEA SALAD ½ cup vegetable oil ¼ cup vinegar ¼ cup sugar 2 cans black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained 1 red bell pepper, chopped ½ onion, chopped 1 green pepper, chopped 2 fresh jalapeno peppers, seeded and chopped (I suggest wearing gloves when you do this) Place all veggies and peas in a bowl. Mix oil, vinegar and sugar together and pour over veggies and peas.

Refrigerate for four to six hours before serving. Stir well before serving.

Madison Living 11

MELISSA’S CORNBREAD SALAD 2 boxes Jiffy cornbread mix, baked according to directions 1 envelope Ranch dressing mix 1 cup sour cream 1 cup Hellmann’s mayonnaise 1 tablespoon Tony Chachere’s Creole Seasoning 2 cans pinto beans, rinsed and drained 2 cans whole kernel corn, drained ½ cup each of red bell pepper, green bell pepper and green onions, chopped 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese Mix up cornbread according to package directions and bake in a black skillet according to directions on the box. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.

Meanwhile, in a medium-size bowl, mix Ranch dressing mix, sour cream, mayo and Creole seasoning well. Using a whisk works well.

Now you are ready to layer! In a large bowl or a 13x9x2 pan, crumble half the cornbread and place it on the bottom. Place half the corn, beans and veggie mix on top of the cornbread. Carefully spread half of the dressing mixture over veggies using a butter knife and/or spoon. Top this with one cup of the cheese. Now, repeat a second layer ending with cheese.

It’s important to let this sit in the fridge for six to eight hours. Serve with a large spoon and dig deep!

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STRAWBERRY PRETZEL SALAD 3 cups pretzels, crushed 1 tablespoon sugar ¾ cup butter, melted 1 cup sugar 2 (16-ounce) containers of frozen strawberries, thawed 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, softened 1 (8-ounce) container Cool Whip 1 large box strawberry Jell-O 1 ½ cups boiling water In a 13x9 baking dish, stir together crushed pretzels, sugar and melted butter.

Press down and up the sides of the pan. Bake at 350 degrees for ten minutes, then let it cool completely.

While crust is baking, stir together cream cheese and sugar, and then stir in the Cool Whip until mixed very well. Spread this mixture over the cooled crust.

Next combine Jell-O and boiling water until mixed well. Stir in the strawberries, and pour this mixture on top of the cream cheese mixture. Cover and place in the fridge for about three hours or until Jell-O is set. Best after 24 hours.

Wellness at work

YMCA

YMCA plans Healthy Kids Day STORY AND PHOTO BY HEART OF THE VALLEY YMCA

S

ummer’s coming, and what’s a kid to do? There’s a summer full of enriching, active, healthy programs at the Hogan Family YMCA, and your family can learn all about them at Healthy Kids Day, April 30 from 9 a.m. to noon.

Summer is the time for kids to get up, get out and grow, but research shows children are more prone to gain weight and fall behind academically over the summer months if they are not engaged in activities that stimulate the mind and body.

Join us for active play and educational opportunities at

a free family event to inspire you to carry that spirit of fun throughout your summer.

Children will enjoy Kids’ Zumba classes and playing on inflatables. Indoors, families can find out about summer camps, sports, swim activities – including lessons and swim team – as well as join the Y and save $200 on a week of overnight camp at YMCA Camp Cha-La-Kee. Kim Keeton, director of Youth and Family Services, emphasizes the safety component of Healthy Kids Day. “The Y will have kid-friendly vendors from the Madison

City area, including the SARTEC Search and Rescue dogs, HEMSI and the Madison Fire Department,” she said. “We are inviting the Lunar Lodge in Madison to set up their child ID program on site to fingerprint children.”

Families can also register for door prizes and enjoy free smoothie samples from the Well-Blended Smoothie Bar. To learn more about Healthy Kids Day, visit ymcahuntsville. org/HKD or call 256-7059622.

Madison Living 13

Madison Family of the Year

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

ABOVE: The Ramsey family: Emily Womble, Kate, Matt, Lucy, Becky and Boone.

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T

he title of Madison Family of the Year for 2016 belongs to Matt and Becky Ramsey and their children, Emily Womble, Boone, Lucy and Kate.

When notified about Family of the Year, the Ramseys were surprised

and excited. “After reading bios of the other two families that were finalists, we were even more humbled to have been chosen,” Becky said. “There are so many amazing and deserving families in Madison. The things we do just feel like the norm to us.”

“Our family is truly thankful for

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Lucy plays soccer with Huntsville Futbol Club.

The Ramseys enjoy a skiing trip. Emily represented Mississippi State at a financial conference in New York City. Becky congratulates Emily at her graduation from Mississippi State. Boone and Matt try their luck on a jet ski.

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Matt and Becky enjoy a tailgate party for the Bulldogs. Sports play a major role in family life. Emily’s graduation at Mississippi State. The Ramseys take a whitewater rafting ride. Matt coached and Boone played for the Madison Maulers. Rainbow’s Pet Parade was a fun outing.

Kate, Lucy and Boone swim with Madison teams.

Emily, Matt and Becky are MSU graduates.

The Ramsey girls enjoy a day with friends on the Tennessee River.

16 Madison Living

the honor and will continue to do our best every day to be worthy representatives of the City of Madison,” she added.

Matt and Becky both grew up in small hometowns – Matt in Hernando, Mississippi, and Becky in Killen.

“Even then, both of us were very active in sports, school clubs and activities and went on to become leaders of clubs and fraternities in college,” she said.

Matt graduated from Mississippi State University with bachelor and master’s degrees in aerospace

engineering. In 2014 he won the NASA Distinguished Public Service Medal.

Becky earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting at the University of North Alabama and two master’s degrees (acquisition and contract management) from Florida Institute of Technology. “Both of us came to this area to start our careers and ended up working together,” she said.

Matt works as vice president, Space Launch System chief engineer and lead systems engineering

at Willbrook Solutions, founded by Kendell and Bonita Phillips in November 2006. He focuses on the NASA business area and is a subcontractor through Jacobs ESSSA contract.

Becky also works for Willbrook as contracts manager. “Willbrook supports the Department of Defense and NASA,” Matt said. The Huntsvillebased company has 70 employees, many living in Madison. Most employees work on Redstone Arsenal.

“Since 1996, Madison has been the ideal place for us to call home. We’re both just minutes from work and church, have excellent schools for the kids and lots of family-friendly activities and restaurants,” Becky said. “We also love the diversity and culture Madison has to offer.”

A member of Rainbow Elementary School PTA, she serves as vice president of fundraising. In the past 10 years, Becky and Matt have coached their children on numerous sports teams and assisted in Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. Matt is a member of the Adult Men’s Basketball Ministry at Asbury United Methodist Church.

Their daughter Emily Womble of Memphis, Tennessee, works for International Paper. Emily graduated with honors from MSU. The Ramseys’ three younger children attend

Madison Living 17

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Mayor Troy Trulock congratulates the Ramseys. The Ramsey girls enjoy a Scout picnic.

Matt studies intently on his next move against Boone in chess. Boone and his friends “tent camp.” Zip lining is another outdoors activity that they enjoy.

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Rainbow. Twins Boone and Lucy are 6th graders.

Boone is an accomplished chess player. Lucy plays with Huntsville Futbol Club. Kate plays basketball and softball; like her siblings, Kate swims for two Madison teams.

The Ramseys attend Church of the Highlands, where Matt and Becky volunteer as small group leaders. Previously, they attended Asbury UMC.

Two other families were 2016 finalists. Jay and Betsy Allison have four children – John, 9, Mark, 7, Sarah, 6, and Paul, 3. Dr. Sandeep “Sandy” and Amy Patel have two sons, Kieran and Connery.

In its 20th year, Madison Family of the Year recognizes diversity and richness of family life.

A volunteer committee reviews applications and interviews families.

Endless innovation

HEALTH

MCS introduces new course offerings to change with the times WRITTEN BY BY DR. DEE O. FOWLER, SUPERINTENDENT, MADISON CITY SCHOOLS

K

eeping curriculum responsive to changing demands is key to any school district’s strategy. We must remain relevant for our students to succeed in this rapidly changing global environment.

This will put things into perspective: We are preparing students for jobs that don’t yet exist, using technologies that haven’t been invented, to address needs that haven’t emerged.

Schools must cover the basics, but school systems must also continuously redesign curriculum.

Please allow me to French and Latin will share some exciting be offered in middle changes for secondary school, and Cyber instruction next year.

Security II is being Some came from input added in high school. from curriculum surveys.

Madison City Schools We are excited to is expanding its STEM Fowler increase our Advanced Academy at both middle Placement offerings to 28 with schools with the addition of a the addition of AP Computer medical detectives (forensics) Science Principles. Innovations offering. This nine-week classes are being added to the course has students playing secondary curriculum. That’s the role of medical detectives a projects-based class where in analyzing genetic testing students collaborate with to diagnose disease and study business and industry partners to DNA evidence found at a identify and pursue projects that “crime scene.” They’ll also solve are relevant to the community medical mysteries through and can benefit society. hands-on projects and labs

and learn all about the various body systems. This expanded forensics will provide a good pathway to the Biomedical and Health Sciences tracks in high school.

We’ve also got a Madison City Schools app developed by one of our students.

The new high school and middle school 2016-17 curriculum catalogs are on the Madison City Schools website under the news tab: www. madisoncity.k12.al.us. Check it out and learn also about our Options Open course offerings in Zero Block, Fifth Block, Online and Blended time slots.

Madison Living 19

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ARTS & CULTURE

Madison Clarinet Choir Keys to beautiful music

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

LEFT: Robin Cotton leads the Clarinet Choir through rehearsal. RIGHT: Learning finger positions for notes is a major challenge for a clarinetist.

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O

ne of the town’s newest fine arts groups, Madison Clarinet Choir focuses on beautiful harmonies of the woodwind instrument.

After about three months of planning, the choir first rehearsed in February 2015. Robin Cotton is director. From their 35-member roster, about 20 members regularly perform.

Orchestration of clarinet “voices” includes two bass, two contraltos, one contrabass, three alto,

about 12 Bb clarinets and one Eb clarinet. Many members can play multiple instruments and switch parts as needed.

Robin Cotton and husband Frank own Madison Band Supply, where they met with Sandy Weisner to conceptualize Madison City Community Orchestra. Cotton teaches clarinet at their store and saw “fantastic talent needing an outlet.”

Weisner, who directs the orchestra, plays Bb clarinet in the choir and assists Cotton with

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LEFT: Types of clarinets in the choir range from contrabass and bass, contralto and alto, Bb clarinets and one Eb clarinet. RIGHT: Embouchure, or correct control of lips and facial muscles, is critical to a clarinetist.

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conducting. Surprisingly, Weisner is the only “crossover” member from the orchestra.

“To me, there’s no more beautiful sound than a group of clarinets playing in harmony,” Cotton said. “In my view, clarinet players are the most interesting folks in the band. Who wouldn’t want to get them together?”

Even with like instruments, the choir has a diverse repertoire, including Glenn Miller, Adele, Scott Joplin, J. S. Bach and Mozart. Henry Mancini’s “Baby Elephant Walk” is a group favorite.

In addition, local composers have contributed original charts. “Ray Braswell has written and arranged several pieces just for us; ‘Celebration’ is one of our group’s favorites,” Cotton said. “Michael Johnson, a former Sparkman High School student now working on his musical performance master’s degree at Texas State University, has composed a piece that we’re working on right now.”

As director, Cotton strives for everyone to have a voice. “One student, a senior this year, is getting together a small group to play one of her favorite pieces, Frank Sinatra’s ‘Fly Me To The Moon,’” Cotton said.

Duets and trios are encouraged. “I love for them to volunteer for solos. One Bb player, Stephanie, created our logo. Dancy Castle, who can play all different clarinets well, has volunteered to do library duties,” Cotton said.

Madison Clarinet Choir does not require auditions. Prospective members are encouraged to have one year of playing experience and know all scales, but it’s not a requirement. The choir’s music can be challenging for inexperienced players; however, the group “is about the love of playing the clarinet, becoming a better player and camaraderie,” Cotton said. No membership fee is charged.

In summer 2015, Madison Clarinet Choir performed at Lowe Mill, Bridge Street Town Centre and the grand re-opening of Madison Band Supply. For Christmas 2015, the choir opened for Madison City Community Orchestra’s concert and played at Santa’s Village. The choir has applied to perform at 2016 Panoply Arts Festival.

The choir includes students from Liberty, Monrovia and East Limestone middle schools, St. John the Baptist Catholic School, Lionsgate Home School and Bob Jones, James Clemens, Sparkman

and Huntsville high schools. “We also have a parent and grandparent of school-age players,” Cotton said.

“I’m so proud of this group and how far they’ve come. We have a varied skill level but now can conquer more difficult music,” Cotton said. “They know each other’s strengths and will draw from each other ... switching parts if need be.”

Without prima donnas, members “play for the betterment of the group and not for their own ego. This group has so many outstanding players,” Cotton said.

Older and more advanced players mentor younger players, and everyone benefits. Cotton introduces different genres, from big-band sounds of Glenn Miller and George Gershwin for summer concerts to classical compositions by Mozart. Ragtime, swing, Broadway, pop tunes and video game music are on their music stands. “Being versatile is so important as a musician,” Cotton said.

The choir rehearses at Madison Band Supply Saturdays from 3-4:30 p.m.

For more information, contact Madison Band Supply, 1604 Hughes Road; call 256-325-BAND; email madisonbandsupply@gmail.com; or join Facebook/Madison Clarinet Choir.

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Madison Living 25

EDUCATION

ROBOTICS is the word

WRITTEN BY GREGG L. PARKER PHOTOGRAPHS BY JEN FOUTS-DETULLEO 26 Madison Living

R

obotics teams benefit from a sense of accomplishment by season’s end. Intimidation by hundreds of loose LEGOs yields to each child’s realization that no task is impossible.

That’s one reason sponsor Rachel Gibbs at Heritage Elementary School endorses robotics, along with project-based learning and student interaction.

“Students apply science, technology, engineering and math concepts, along with imagination.”

Heritage’s Robotics Team won Overall Best

Project to qualify at regionals and Best Research at Alabama FIRST LEGO League Championship.

FIRST abbreviates “For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology.”

For the theme Trash Trek, teams devised “innovative solutions to produce less trash,” sponsor Rachel Gibbs said. Heritage students talked with Covanta Waste-to-Energy employees and decide to focus on the cafeteria’s Styrofoam trays. They discovered a sugar cane tray as an alternative, more environmentally-safe and affordable.

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Students in robotics learn project management and the engineering design process. Industry experts and parents mentor robotics students.

Students design their robot’s schematics.

Judges appreciate simplicity in robotic design.

Madison Living 27

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The Mad Rockers team produced this robot design. James Clemens MATE Team won its division in the 2015 Northern Gulf Regionals.

Mentors for robotics include, from left, Gary Dillard, Tim Curry, Victor Tapia and Rick Schwarz.

For high school, the 2015 contest used a scenario with an abandoned mine.

28 Madison Living

From Horizon Elementary School, robotics teams ranked in top places at FLL Championship.

Wall-E LEGO Alliance Team of 5th graders won first place in robot design and second place in robot performance, robotics co-sponsor Beth Bero said.

Wall-E team members learned trees provide a habitat for many animals that help the environment. Team members planted a tree at Horizon to deter invasive plant species.

Horizon’s 6th grade Grossbusters claimed first place for research at state. Team members worked twice weekly and during fall break and weekends, robotics co-sponsor Rebecca Ellis said.

From Mill Creek Elementary School, Robo-Crew won first place in Innovation Solution at the FLL Championship and was selected as state nominee for the Global Innovation award in Washington, D.C., in summer 2016.

“What caught the judges’ attention was our solution’s simplicity and easy implementation.

It’s already making a difference,” sponsor Sharon Harris said. Using the slogan “Snack It – Don’t Trash It,” Robo-Crew’s campaign curbed waste in packaged snacks.

At James Clemens in 2012, engineering teacher Greg Ennis started coaching robotics because a student wanted to continue what he had learned in middle school with Marine Advanced Technology Education. About 10 James Clemens students participate in MATE, and about 30 participate in FIRST. MATE uses underwater robotics, while FIRST is land-based.

The James Clemens MATE Team won its division in the 2015 Northern Gulf Regionals. The FIRST team won the General Motors Industrial Design Award at the Bayou Regional, along with Gracious Professionalism Award.

Students in robotics learn project management and the engineering design process, Ennis said.

They choose a discipline – mechanical, electrical

or programming. “Students use hand tools and power tools. Some learn more advanced concepts, such as machining.”

At Bob Jones High School, the Robotics Team won honors at the Tennessee Valley BEST Robotics Competition at Calhoun Community College. BEST represents Boosting Engineering Science and Technology.

Bob Jones has a fall team for BEST and a spring team for FIRST, which engineering teacher Jeremy Raper sponsors.

Each September, teams receive materials for the six-week process for designing, constructing and testing the competition robot. The 2015 contest used a scenario with a mine, abandoned due to safety concerns. In the competition game, robots picked up “coal” and repaired air filters (foam board) and water systems (PVC piping), Raper said.

Team member Eric Black said the experience “definitely helps me narrow down the specific engineering major I want to pursue in college, which is computer engineering.”

Wendy Nguyen loves robotics “because it’s not just about making the robot, but functioning as a company. Participating in robotics is pushing me toward industrial engineering.”

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Madison Living 29

Limitless

EDUCATION

Lakso, Vaughn guide talent in Visual Arts

ABOVE: Kaitlin Runnels tries a stroke technique that Elizabeth ‘Liz’ Vaughn suggests. Vaughn teaches art at James Clemens High School.

30 Madison Living

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

H

ow do Robin Lakso and Elizabeth “Liz” Vaughn know when one of their students has distinctive talent in art?

“I would say that we don’t know … the student knows,” Vaughn said. Lakso agreed but also sees “promise in so many students when they give

art a chance.”

Coincidentally, Lakso and Vaughn are mother/ daughter. Lakso always wanted to teach art but “fell into this position at Bob Jones High School about 11 years ago, right about the time Liz was getting ready to graduate.”

Vaughn agreed her family “has a history of being artists. I’m humbled to follow in (Lakso’s) footsteps, but we’ve found our own paths to this destination.”

Lakso teaches at Bob Jones High School, while

Vaughn teaches at James Clemens High School.

They both teach Art II, III and IV, Advanced and Advanced-Placement Art Studio.

Also at Bob Jones, Jenny Norton teaches Art I and II. Mason Overcash teaches Art I at James Clemens.

“Talent exists in any school, but the education students receive in Madison City Schools lends itself to many talents, including visual art,” Lakso said.”

“Our students have a love of what they do and a great work ethic,” Vaughn said.

Each year, Madison students enter Scholastic Young

Artists and Writers competition – a state, regional and national competition for promising students. The awards’ top echelon is the Gold Key, followed by Silver Key and Honorable Mention. Past honorees include Robert Redford, Truman Capote and Andy Warhol.

Gold Key winners advance to national adjudication, with finalists honored at Carnegie Hall in May. For the Southeast region, only 16 gold portfolios were awarded, and five were Bob Jones students.

From Bob Jones, Scholastic regional winners for Gold Key are Kayla Buckelew, Abby Ford, Leah Hong,

LEFT TO RIGHT: Chappel Alex at Bob Jones shows her pastel design, “Smiles for Miles.” Sammy Shin’s “No Hope for the Wicked” has surreal and threedimensional aspects. Bob Jones’ Kayla Bucklew’s paintings here are “Coming Undone” and “Staring Down the Abyss.”

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Donald Rizzardi and Sammy Shin. Silver Key winners are Alex Chappell, Katie Bero, Chase Henderson and Mackenzie Porten. Dylan Desroches and Nikki Pruitt received Honorable Mention.

Winning for individual art pieces from Bob Jones are Leah Hong, Gold and Silver, painting; Chris Morris, Honorable Mention, drawing; and Katherine Reardon and Lamesha Russell, Honorable Mention, painting.

Honorees from James Clemens for Gold Key are Chryselle Alvarado, Sara Kim, Kaitlin Runnels and Kiersten Thorum. Silver Key winners are Chryselle Alvarado, Gillian Gormley, Jaekyong Kim, Abbigail Manning and Hannah Zbuchalski.

James Clemens’ Honorable Mention winners are Kylie Bolyard, Ella Engstrom, Emma Gould, Cailyn Guthrie, Daniella Langworthy, Bailey Lombardi, Farrah Sanders and Hannah Zbuchalski.

In other honors for Bob Jones, Sammy Shin won “Best in Show” for State Superintendent’s Visual Art Awards. Claudia Chu earned an Alabama Visual Arts Achievement Award at Huntsville Museum of Art during Youth Art Month.

From James Clemens, Chryselle Alvarado and Caprice Devore earned Honorable Mention in Congressional Arts competition. Place-winners in the Birmingham Southern Southeastern show were Chryselle Alvarado, Summer Crawford, Ella Engstrom, Kaitlin Runnels, Kirsten Thorum, Adriana Zarazua and Emily Petrucka.

One fallacy is that the arts are not “career-worthy,” Lakso said. Her former students are business entrepreneurs, in medical school and work as architects, engineers and teachers. The arts allow students to problem solve and think creatively – desirable skills to employers.

Another misconception contends that students in the arts aren’t as academically sound as others. “Our fine arts students historically have better grades and standardized test scores than the school at large,” Vaughn said.

“Every student should be able to find time in their day to have a class they enjoy, that relaxes them or is just fun. The arts offer so many opportunities that other classes cannot,” Lakso said.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: From left, Kiersten Thorum, Chryselle Alvarado and Sarah Kim were among Bob Jones’ Gold Key Award winners in Scholastic Art judging. Robin Lakso, seated at center, gathers with her students at Bob Jones. Students Sammy Shin, Lameesha Russel, Sarah Kim, Nourhan Sheta and Chryselle Alvarado pour passion into their artistic pieces. Liz Vaughn and Mason Overcash teach art at James Clemens. Art teacher Liz Vaughn points to a detail on a large portrait by Helen Lee and Kiersten Thorum.

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“Our fine arts students historically have better grades and standardized test scores than the school at large.”

- Elizabeth “Liz” Vaughn

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Madison Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

The Madison Chamber of Commerce looks to unite all public and private interests to support those activities that are broader than any single business or industry but that promote the welfare of our city and the area as a whole. The Madison Chamber of Commerce is a working partnership of business and professional people coordinating their efforts to advance the development of the community and free enterprise system.

The Madison Chamber of Commerce cannot succeed without its valued members, and the Chamber works hard to help members stay involved, connected and informed through events, activities, digital marketing and social media.

Join the Madison Chamber of Commerce: call 256-325-8317 or visit madisonalchamber. com for more information

The Chamber celebrates Specs of Madison Ribbon Cutting

Pictured at the Beyond Nail Spa Ribbon Cutting, from left to right, are owner Joe Mai, Mayor Troy Trulock and Madison Chamber of Commerce events and marketing coordinator Sherry Brukner.

The Chamber celebrates Beyond Nail Spa Ribbon Cutting.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MADISON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The December Ambassador Luncheon was held at Los Trojas.

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Madison Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Pictured at the Infinity Chiropractic Ribbon Cutting, from left to right, are Dr. Travis, Brock, Rylee and Dr. Heather McDermott.

A ribbon cutting was held for Nexus Energy at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.

The February Monthly Luncheon was held at the Best Western Plus. Mayor Troy Trulock, center, and featured speaker owner & CEO Andy Newton of Southern Light with the Southern Light Team were among those to attend.

The February Monthly Luncheon Sponsor was Progress Bank; pictured are assistant branch manager Larissa Moore, left, and Madison Market President Beth Richardson.

Business After Hours was held recently at Alabama Credit Union.

Pictured at the Statue Unveiling Ceremony at the Hogan Family YMCA, left to right, are YMCA President & CEO Jerry Courtney, Hogan Family YMCA Executive Director Daniel Kasambira, Ann Hogan and David Hogan.

Check presentation at the Huntsville Havoc game. Over $400 was raised for Secret Meals for Hungry Children. Pictured from left to right - Clay Coleman-Vice President Huntsville Havoc Hockey, Mayor Troy Trulock, MCC Board President Mary Lynne Wright, Huntsville Havoc Director of Ticket Sales Kline Thompson, Alabama Credit Union North Alabama Area Manager June Landrum and ACU Supervisor Brady Wakefield.

Taziki’s catered the food for the Nexus Energy Ribbon Cutting.

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James Clemens Theatre stages Disney ice skating

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As fundraising for their spring musical, “Beauty and the Beast,” James Clemens students in advanced production ice skated as some of Disney’s most beloved characters. They were dressed head-totoe in costume and in character as they ice skated alongside Madison children.

1. Anna and Friends 2. Rusty Hutt, Olaf and Kate Jackson 3. Pocahontas and Omar Maldonado 4. Kyle McCormick as Peter Pan and Emma Waldron as Wendy

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5. Britney Quach as Lilo 6. David Firth as Hercules 7. Jacquel Russell and Stacy Harris 8. Claire Amey

PHOTOGRAPHS BY LEXIE TUBELL

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3

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7

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9. Tad Hutt as Flynn Rider and Becky Protos as Rapunzel 10. Alex Walbom as the Prince and Kayla Braxton as Belle 11. Amanda Jackson as Elsa, Amy Patel as Olaf and Heyden Pearson as Anna 12. Carrie Gormley as Cinderella and Melanie Garcia as Pocahontas

PHOTOGRAPHS BY LEXIE TUBELL

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Madison Living 37

Floor Coverings International of Huntsville Solid foundations built on trust

A

t Floor Coverings International of Huntsville, the finest materials and longstanding durability provide impeccable flooring for clients’ homes.

In 2016, trends will continue for hardwood, both blonde and dark woods with mixed widths.

‘Natural’ is the top request for tile, carpet, bamboo and cork.

Flooring “is the foundation for the rest of the room in terms of paint and furniture,” Lisa Lacik said.

Owners John and Lisa Lacik and Design Consultant Beth Beatty love this business. “We can help our clients find the

38 Madison Living

perfect flooring, within their budget and on time with no surprises,” Lisa said.

“Being a local, family-owned business partnered with an experienced international flooring franchise allows us to have ‘customer delight’ as our core philosophy. We’re supported 100 percent by our franchise,” she said.

Their clients continue to like hand-scrapped hardwoods and Luxury Vinyl Tiles and Luxury Vinyl Planks. Many new products have outstanding warranties, such as 30 years or for a lifetime. Pet Protect carpet products are 100-percent material and labor replaceable if irremovable stains occur.

“We enjoy direct

relationships with major manufacturers such as Armstrong, Shaw, Daltile, Emser and U.S. Floors,” Lisa said. The direct connection and number of franchises allow us to offer great pricing. “In addition, we can find just about anything for any project through our distributors.”

A client with Floor Coverings International of Huntsville can schedule a free, no-obligation appointment for the mobile showroom to visit their home; appointments are available Monday-Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. In addition, customers can visit the showroom at 2506-B 5th Street

in Huntsville on MondaySaturday by appointment from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

“We have enjoyed relationships with many clients throughout Madison County,” Lisa said. “Having repeat clients and hearing compliments about us is very rewarding.”

For more information, contact Beth Beatty at 256-650-1200 or 256-5202126, email to beth.beatty@ floorcoveringsinternational. com or visit huntsville. floorcoveringsinternational. com.

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 MIXER TRUCK DRIVERS NEEDED Now hiring full-time CDL-qualified mixer truck drivers. Must have good driving record and pass drugscreening.

Benefits: •Highly-competitive pay •Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance •Matched 401K •Paid Vacation/Life Insurance Apply: 4200 Stringfield Road Huntsville, AL 35806 Caregivers & Nurses ALWAYS THERE INHOME 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 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 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!

Free book & bible study!

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 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 E 5’ Rhino Finish Mower: $800 New 4’ Deep-V Bush Hog: $750 New 6’ Titan Bush Hog:

$1,200 New 5’ Sunburst Box Blade: $450 256-565-8695 (no text)

Decatur, AL 35602 kdcpropertiesinc.com J. Wesley Cain, AL #286; TN #6499

Welder Training Coming Soon!

Short Term Licensing Call for Details 866-432-0430 ESDschool. com

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

•Mixed hay $5.00 per bale •$4.50 per bale for 100+bales Located In West Point Call 256-734-4202

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)

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.

KDC Properties, Inc. 256-355-9090 P.O. Box 987

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!

No experience necessary.

Full or Part-Time!

Own your own businesswhile making profit with a purpose.

For more information, email healthypetpro@gmail. com Burger King Hiring General, Assistant & Shift Managers Top Pay/Monthly Bonus/ Vacation/ Medical Benefits. 3yrs fast food experience required. Fax resume: 334-649-1112 or apply at: www.joinbkalabama.com 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 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 256332-9253 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 Become a Dental Asst. in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website capstonedentalassisting. com or call (205) 5618118 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

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Healthy legs help you enjoy life.

Our vein specialists use minimally-invasive techniques to treat: — Varicose veins

— Ankle swelling

— Spider veins

— Leg pain, aching, cramping or fatigue

— Bulging veins

— Leg ulcers, open wounds or sores

— Restless legs

— Burning or itching on the legs

New transilluminated powered phlebectomy (Trivex Vein Removal) Better cosmetic results, less incisions and easier recovery *Service available at Madison location only

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

8371 Hwy. 72 W., Suite 100 · Madison, AL 35758 40 Madison Living madisonALhospital.org/veincenter