Madison Living July 2018

SAVORY AND SWEET ● OF PRINCIPAL IMPORTANCE ● HEALING DANCE

MADISON LIVING July 2018 | $4.95

FARMHOUSE STYLE WATTS MODERNIZE THEIR 1990S HOME

MADISON LIVING EDITORIAL Rebekah Martin Alison James Gregg Parker CONTRIBUTORS Joshua Berry Dr. Heather Donaldson Sue Esslinger Bob Labbe Stephanie Robertson Dylan Schrader Mary Anne Swanstrom MARKETING Jan Bromley Ashley Davis Tori Waits ADMINISTRATIVE Kayla Taylor Harrison Daniel Holmes

••• CONTACT US Madison Publications, LLC 14 Main St., Suite C P.O. Box 859 Madison, AL 35758 Phone: 256-772-6677 Fax: 256-772-6655 Madison Living is published monthly

by Madison Publications, LLC. A one-year subscription to Madison Living is $24.99 for 12 issues per year.

Single copies are available at select locations throughout the Madison area.

To advertise or to get more copies, call 256-772-6677.

Copyright 2018

by Madison Publications, LLC 4 Madison Living

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HOME & STYLE 11 Tastefully updated

SCHOOL & SPORTS

IN EVERY ISSUE: 6 The Question 7 The Guide

19 Where the journey begins

38 Out & About

FEATURE

40 Chamber Connection

25 Great times for all

42 Marketplace

FOOD & DRINK 30 Savory and sweet

ARTS & CULTURE

35 Stars Dancing for HEALS

Madison Living 5

THE QUESTION

What are you most looking forward to doing/seeing in Madison this summer?

Since I am new to the area, I am looking forward to meeting people. We enjoy the concerts in the park and the festivals. We also want to enjoy our serene patio with guests for a BBQ or a tasty beverage. We would be fans for almost anything in this gorgeous part of Alabama.

Honestly, what I look forward to seeing this summer is neighbors outside. Whether it’s mowing grass, morning/afternoon walks, or sitting in lawnchairs - I enjoy smiling faces, friendly waves, and streetside chats.

-Shrail Heinrich

-Kim Rouleau

Hearing James Clemens HS band practice for football season! Living close to the school does have its advantages!

Back porch private concerts.

I’m looking forward to more evening trips to Frios and catching a Gazebo concert or two.

-Jenny Mitschelen

-Vicki Morris

I am looking forward to Fit4MOM- MadisonStroller Strides and Stroller Barre!! Love working out with my daughter, and connecting with other moms and their littles!

-Crystal Huddleston 6 Madison Living

I’m looking forward to more concerts in the park on County Line!

-Zoey Freda (3 years old)

THE GUIDE

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY BRANDEN WATTS Madison Living 7

THE GUIDE

ROCKET CITY SUMMER FEST

May 29 - Aug. 3 HOGAN FAMILY YMCA

Summer Day Camp

MONDAY-FRIDAY, 7 A.M. TO 6 P.M. Summer Day Camp is an opportunity that will last a lifetime. Qualified and welltrained staff will lead children in themed activities that include arts, sports, games, swimming, field trips and much more. The camp is open to rising kindergarteners through rising sixth-graders. Space is limited to 150 spots per week for the fiveday camp and 50 for the three-day camp.

BEST SUMMER EVER Summer Day Camp HOGAN FAMILY YMCA MAY 29-AUGUST 3 Summer Day Camp is an opportunity that will last a lifetime. Qualified and well trained staff will lead children in themed activities that include arts , sports, games, swimming, field trips, and much more. 

Monday-Friday 7:00am-6:00pm (Camp does not operate on Memorial Day or Independence Day)



Rising Kindergarteners-Rising 6th graders



Space is limited (150 spots per week for 5 day camp & 50 for 3 day camp)



Members ($25 non-refundable deposit required for each week; due upon registration)



Non-Members $25 non-refundable deposit required for each week; due upon registration)

5 Day Weekly Fee (per child): $135.00 3 Day (TuWTh ONLY) Fee (per child): $95.00

(less your deposit) (less your deposit)

5 Day Weekly Fee (per child): $185.00

(less your deposit)

3 Day (TuWTh ONLY) Fee (per child):$120.00

(less your deposit)

HOGAN FAMILY YMCA 130 Park Square Lane Madison, AL 35758 256 705 9622 www.ymcahuntsville.org 111237 04/12

June 1 - Oct. 31

Gardens of Myth

HUNTSVILLE BOTANICAL GARDEN A Kappa and a leprechaun, as well as goblins, trolls and other fantastic folk took up temporary residence in the Huntsville Botanical Garden June 1 as part of the Gardens of Myth exhibit.

This series of sculptures – handmade and painted by Kendall R. Hart – is sure to delight visitors of all ages. Ranging in size from the tiniest fairies to an impressive 25-foot dragon, each piece is accompanied by a sign detailing interesting facts about the creatures, including country or region of origin, habitat, lifespan and character. The display will continue through Oct. 31.

June 28 - Aug. 4

Athens Lions Club Kiddie Carnival

309 E. FORREST ST. IN ATHENS THURSDAYS-SATURDAYS FROM 6:30-9:30 P.M.

The Athens Lions Club 2018 Kiddie Carnival will be open June 28 through Aug. 4 on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Children can enjoy a small Ferris wheel, rocket ships, swings, carousel, train, roller coaster, parachute rides, bigger swings and the scrambler. There will also be bingo and concessions are available, including sandwiches, French fries, popcorn, sno cones, cotton candy, funnel cakes and drinks. For updates and additional information about Kiddie Carnival visit Athens Lions Club Kiddie Carnival on Facebook.

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JULY 12 9 am - 5 pm Rocket City Summer Fest is an annual three-day celebration at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center meant to bring together our community of Camp alumni and their families from all over the world. This event allows them to reconnect with friends and applaud the accomplishments of fellow alumni.

Start planning for the fun now!

Tickets: Early Bird $110 General Admission $130 Schedule: THURSDAY, JULY 12 4:30 p.m. Biergarten 5:30 p.m. Pass the Torch Space Camp Hall of Fame FRIDAY, JULY 13 12:00 p.m. Lunch at the Lake This event is exclusive to Rocket City Summer Fest All-Access Pass holders.

7:00 p.m. Hall of Fame Dinner SATURDAY, JULY 14 10:30 a.m. Town Hall Brunch 1:00 p.m. Behind-the-Scenes Tour of Space Camp This event is exclusive to Rocket City Summer Fest All-Access Pass holders.

2:30 p.m. Top Gun Tournament Simulated Orion Mission Underwater Astronaut Trainer (UAT) Experience Afternoon on the Ropes Course 5:00 p.m. Pool Party 7:00 p.m. “Party of the Year” Concert

THE GUIDE

BUSINESS EXPO & KIDS DAY

Saturdays in July

Madison City Farmers Market 8 A.M. TO NOON, TRINITY BAPTIST CHURCH

Madison City Farmers Market 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.

July 3 - Aug. 1

Kids Movie Summer Camp TUESDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS, 10 A.M. TO NOON, CINEPLANET 15

JULY 28 10 am - 2 pm Hogan YMCA Calling all Lords and Ladies of the Realm!

The Madison Chamber proclaims July 28th a day of fun and celebration of Madison at the Hogan YMCA! Visit our 60+ booths and learn more about the amazing goods and services Madison offers!

Our favorite food trucks will be on hand with delicious fare throughout the event.

Kids of the kingdom will enjoy FREE activities include: • Face painting • Rock painting • Balloon animals • Inflatables • Courtyard games with prizes There will be tours of the HEMSI ambulance and Madison fire truck, and SARTEC will bring their highly-trained rescue dogs to interact with attendees.

The MCC Business Expo & Kids Day is FREE to the public and draws thousands of attendees each year.

Come to our Castle and Slay Dragons with us!

Cineplanet 15 will hold Kids Movie Summer Camp for $1 admission, featuring the following schedule: July 3-4, “Minions;” July 10-11, “The Secret Life of Pets;” July 17-18, “Sing;” July 24-25, “Alvin and the Chipmunks;” and July 31 and Aug. 1, “Ferdinand.” Movies will be shown from 10 a.m. to noon.

July 11 and 18, 2:30-5 pm

Children's Wednesday Matinee MADISON PUBLIC LIBRARY

Madison Public Library invites all children to watch a movie and enjoy free popcorn. July 11 will be “Lego Batman,” and July 18 will be “Paddington 2.”

July 13 and 27, 7:30-10 p.m.

Date Night Movies at Madison MADISON PUBLIC LIBRARY

Join other couples at the Madison Public Library for your next date night. This free movie series is intended for audiences 17 and up. Bring a picnic blanket or chairs and join movie-goers on the outdoor patio. Movie begins at sunset, so come early and grab a good spot. Popcorn will be served. July 13 will be “The Omen,” and July 27 will be “Alien.”

July 17, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Tuesdays on the Trail:

Art and Archaeology at Rainbow Mountain RAINBOW MOUNTAIN NATURE PRESERVE

It’s a picnic at Rainbow Mountain! Bring a sack lunch and start this event off with lunch in the pavilion. From there, archaeologist Ben Hoksbergen will guide visitors through some of the iconic limestone formations that have made Rainbow Mountain (almost) famous.

The day will finish with an archaeology-inspired art project led by Sarah Hart. For more information call 256-534-5263.

Madison Living 9

s re 8 i xp 01 e r ,2 ffe 16 O ly Ju

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HOME& STYLE

FARMHOUSE STYLE The Watts revamp their Madison home WRITTEN BY GREGG L. PARKER PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOSHUA BERRY Madison Living 11

BEFORE

A

After buying their home in Homestead in October 2017, Mike and Amira Watts have been working nonstop to renovate the entire house.

“We have two small children, so we get to do projects after bedtimes and on weekends,” Amira said. “We were actually still laying down our new flooring the day I went into labor with our son.

“Our home was built in 1993 – definitely a traditional home for the time,” Amira added. “Our renovation goal was to brighten and modernize everything. We would consider the style now a modern farmhouse style.”

They painted the exterior’s wood siding “Alabaster White” from Sherwin Williams. For brick on the front and bottom perimeter, Rick

12 Madison Living

and Amira decided to “lime-wash” the brick to brighten up their home and give it that farmhouse style.

“We removed the old front porch railings and added a porch swing,” Amira said. “We plan to replace the front porch columns, wrapping them in cedar for a contrast against the white.”

With 1,859 total square footage, the house has three bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. The living room is the family’s favorite spot and focal point, with a tall vaulted ceiling, large windows and updated fireplace. “We love having an open living space. You can see everything from the main floor,” Amira said.

The Watts have painted every single inch of the interior and exterior.

Madison Living 13

All by Sherwin Williams, the main interior paint color is “Mindful Grey,” the master bedroom is “Sea Salt,” and their daughter’s room is “Intimate White.” The master bedroom has a shiplap ceiling.

“The entire house was still covered in original carpet, so we ripped it all out and laid antique-style laminate flooring throughout,” Amira said. “The kitchen had a different style of laminate that we also took out. We painted the kitchen cabinets and are currently in the process of changing countertops. We have scraped popcorn ceiling in almost all the rooms.”

The entry still has original hardwoods, but Amira said they plan to replace those with tile eventually. They converted the formal dining room into their children’s playroom. In the main living area, the Watts removed tile from the fireplace and substituted marble tile in a herringbone pattern.

“We plan to add a ceiling beam and shiplap to complete our farmhouse feel,” Mike said. “We are also currently redoing our staircase.” After removing carpet, the couple stained the stairs and replaced the spindles.

14 Madison Living

“We’ve replaced almost all light fixtures and doorknobs to oil-rubbed, bronze finishes,” Amira added. “We took out several door casings and plan to refinish those.”

For the bathrooms, the formerly dark brown grout is now gray. All bathroom cabinets are repainted and have new hardware. “We chose the color ‘Wrought Iron’ by Benjamin Moore,” Mike said. “We changed our front door from light blue with a gold kick plate to ‘Wrought Iron’ and oil-rubbed bronze door handles.”

Most of their furniture and accessories are antiques they found at yard sales or antique shops, along with family hand-me-downs. “We love repurposing items,” Amira said.

Mike grew up in Harvest. Amira is a Madison native. “We love this area,” she said. “That’s one reason we wanted to fix up an older home.”

Mike works as a senior sales executive at Digium in Cummings Research Park. Amira is a registered nurse. Their 3-year-old daughter, Emerson Grace, will enter pre-school this fall, and their son, Dayton James, is 6 months old.

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Ask the experts Do you need help making Madison your home?

These leaders in the community, business, finance and real estate have answers to all your questions.

Jan Wells Realtor 12181 County Line Road, Suite 180, Madison, AL 35758 Phone: 256-337-2400; email: jan.wells@knology.net A Madison resident since 1986, Jan has been active in the business and real estate communities as well as city government. Whether chairing committees for the Huntsville Area Association of REALTORS, serving as the first President of the Madison Chamber of Commerce, or leading the city as Madison’s Mayor from 2000-2004, Jan has enjoyed meeting the many diverse residents who call Madison home. The experience gained through that service has given her a unique insight into life in Madison. A licensed REALTOR since 1989, Jan now enjoys representing former clients as well as their sons and daughters. That continuity of service is especially gratifying.

Jan says that the trust implied by these referrals is her greatest compliment and the many new friends she continues to meet are the greatest reward.

Ronnie Colvin, M.S. ColeFP Financial Planner 250 Sun Temple Drive, Suite C-3, Madison, AL 35758 Phone: 256-617-7189; email: ronnie@colefp.com Ronnie was born and raised in Huntsville and has lived in Madison since 2000. He spent 30 years working in technology before changing careers to financial planning, with the goal of helping the high-tech workforce in North Alabama take control of their financial lives. Ronnie takes great pride in the fact that his firm is a strict fee-only advisory, meaning that they sell no investments, insurance, or other financial products, so their client can be sure that the advice they receive is as objective and free from conflict of interest as possible.

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SCHOOL& SPORTS

WHERE THE JOURNEY BEGINS Brian Givens provides guidance as Rainbow principal WRITTEN BY GREGG L. PARKER PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOSHUA BERRY Madison Living 19

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After several years as an administrator, Brian Givens recently finished his first year as principal at Rainbow Elementary School.

“The role of a principal during your first year brings a number of surprises,” Givens said. “I’m an organized person but found myself early on adjusting to the daunting task of improving my overall daily scheduling routine … to stay on top of calendar events from weekly appointments/meetings to school events, professional development training and more.”

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Givens’ journey as an educator began with teaching physical science and chemistry at Central High School in Lauderdale County Schools in January 2008. He then taught world history at Hazel Green High School and coached from 20082014.

In administration for Madison City Schools, Givens has worked as assistant principal at both Columbia Elementary and Bob Jones High schools. He was Patriot athletic director.

“I fell in love with elementary school while working at Columbia. I loved my time at Bob Jones with so many amazing students and staff, but in my heart I wanted to return to where the journey begins for our children,” Givens said. Rainbow especially attracted him because the campus has welcomed additional students with special needs from MCS’ eastern side.

His educational philosophy is built on the foundation of teaching by using relationships. “We remember the connections and relationships we established with teachers. Do you recall lesson plans from your elementary teachers? Do you remember tests or assessments?” Givens said. Rainbow teachers and Givens strive to connect before they correct, Givens said.

Givens earned a bachelor’s degree in secondary education and social sciences at the University of North Alabama and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Jacksonville State University.

From his career, Givens said he especially remembers Billy Randolph – his football and baseball coach at Wilson High School – for his unprecedented work ethic and success with players and students. Randolph’s history classes motivated Givens to study that field.

“The energy and enthusiasm he brought on a daily basis was inspirational,” Givens said. “Mr. Randolph pushed me to my limits, but this made me a much stronger student and athlete. He taught me to expect a high standard from others while also having good relationships.”

As MCS faces the next decade, Givens said he hopes for smaller class sizes. He also endorses Superintendent Robby Parker’s vision for Spanish classes in elementary schools and beyond. “As our global workforce changes, we always need to be aware of how this should, in turn, impact our schools and the opportunities we offer our students,” Givens said.

In 2017 the Givens family bought a home in Madison. “We have loved living in Madison and

Madison Living 21

We have loved living in Madison and look forward to the future as our family grows in this wonderful city.

– Brian Givens

22 Madison Living

look forward to the future as our family grows in this wonderful city,” Givens said.

After working at Huntsville Hospital as a cardiologist registered nurse, his wife Jana Givens is raising their 7-monthold son Mitchell. Jana plans to return to school to pursue a nurse practitioner or nurse educator position. In August, their 5-year-old son Owen will enter kindergarten at Rainbow.

Brian and Jana volunteer frequently for their church community, particularly Shop With a Hero, which works with at-risk children. The youth meet “heroes,” such as church volunteers, firefighters, police officers, educators and nurses, who help students spend a $100 gift card from Walmart. “It’s very humbling to see so many students receive items at Christmas, despite their situation or circumstances,” Brian said.

A born competitor, Brian said he plans to join an adult baseball or flag football league. In his spare time, he likes to travel; watch college football, especially the Auburn Tigers; read leadershipbased books; and create memories with his family.

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EDUCATION

Going beyond traditional school with creative course offerings

Dr. Heather Donaldson

MCS Chief Academic Officer www.mcsinstruction.com

Summer break is half over and I cannot wait for students to see the exciting opportunities we have for them when schools reopen Aug. 7.

With Superintendent Parker’s vision and work from the district instruction team, school staff and Board, we have developed a dynamic curriculum that will help all students thrive.

The biggest change for 2018-19 is the 6th grade move to middle schools.

As Superintendent Parker has emphasized, the purpose for this transition is academic. It provides students more opportunities to elective courses, academic advancement, and stronger middle school connections.

Last school year, I led a broad-based committee to explore all options of the transition. They convened for months to brainstorm ideas, study model systems, and develop the framework that was ultimately adopted.

The 6th grade transition brings exciting renovations to Liberty Middle and Discovery Middle, but the new course opportunities will also pique students’ interest. Rising 6th graders can now take advanced Mathematics and Language Arts in addition to 24 elective courses ranging from Chess to Scholars Bowl to Fine Arts to Greenpower Racing. They’ll take at least one World Languages course with options including Latin, German, French, and Mandarin Chinese. Curriculum revisions extend to 7th and 8th grade with new STEM courses such as PLTW Energy/Environment and PLTW Magic of Electrons, and the expansion of others such as Theatre and Visual Arts.

We continually work to ensure a viable curriculum for 21st century learners that also aligns to workforce demands.

I’m excited to share that our elementary

Spanish program is being expanded to now include all k-5 grades, and we’re adding an advanced 5th grade math opportunity along with expanding curriculum resources for elementary math teachers.

For high school, we’ve added new options that complement our 30 AP course offerings and the vast number of elective courses. Examples: Accounting and PLTW Digital Electronics for students interested in learning more about how digital circuits found in devices such as video games and digital cameras are used in automated equipment.

Over the years, we have tried to think beyond traditional school, and 2018-19 brings another opportunity with an Integrated Modern US History and AP Language course that will challenge students to refine their awareness of language and also to consider the ways in which literature reflects American politics and society.

â—?

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GREAT TIMES FOR ALL

Topgolf brings golf, food, fun to Madison County WRITTEN BY DYLAN SCHRADER PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOSHUA BERRY Madison Living 25

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Even on a Thursday at 6 p.m., Topgolf is bustling.

On a quick walk around the bays – what Topgolf calls the areas where golfers tee off – participants will see children hitting golf balls with their parents next to older men in golf polos and shorts working on their golf games. In the lounge, guests might find a group of young corporate types next to a table full of students having dinner and drinks amid the din of music and voices.

The energy of the place does not feel like earlier, archaic types of games/drinks/food establishments – in other words, this is not your father’s bowling alley. This is not the place to get nachos with fake cheese and cheap pitchers of Pabst Blue Ribbon. Topgolf is, somehow, a place for the family and the fraternity, the engineering student and the factory worker alike. Amid the lights, organized chaos and laughter, anyone can have a great time.

When walking around the restaurant and bar area, it is clear there is no divide between servers, upper-level employees or guests. “The people are a critical and crucial part of what we do,” Topgolf marketing manager Wiley Belew explained. “Topgolf encourages people to come out of their shell and think outside of the box. They use individual personalities to their advantage.” Employees are encouraged to interact with guests, even if that means stopping what they are doing and hitting a golf ball with them, Belew said.

According to Belew and platinum sales manager Alison Collins, Topgolf chose the Huntsville/Madison area because it was such a rapidly expanding market with a lot of potential. Additionally, Belew and Collins said there is a lot of technology involved in Topgolf – for example, by the end of next year, all Topgolf balls will have Toptracer sensors installed,

26 Madison Living

allowing customers to track the flight, trajectory and loft of all shots – which makes Topgolf a good fit for the engineering crowd in Huntsville.

Topgolf is not unique simply because it is a cool new place to hit golf balls with friends and family. Instead, it is an anomaly because of the thought put into every aspect of the experience. For example, rather than forcing homogenous corporate food onto guests, Topgolf has in-house chefs.

The business even gets Topgolf chefs to compete against each other in a contest every year, and the best dishes are later used as limited-time offers throughout all Topgolf locations. “This is not your typical bar food,” Collins said.

Sure, customers will still find burgers, wings and cheese fries on the menu, but they will also find

spinach and goat cheese salad as well as a prosciutto, artichoke and olive flatbread sandwich. Even the grilled cheese sandwich gets the specialized touch, made with smoked barbecue brisket, pepper jack and cheddar cheese on toasted artisan bread.

Topgolf also partners with local businesses.

The Huntsville location collaborated with Rocket Republic, a Madison brewery, to create a beer exclusively for Topgolf in Huntsville called Six Iron Blonde.

The best word to describe the Topgolf experience might be “immersive.” According to Collins, Topgolf sends employees to Disney leadership training to help them learn how to create an interactive guest experience. Topgolf has ’90s trivia night every Thursday from 7-9 p.m., when the employees – both servers and upper-level associates – go around the dining area and lounge quizzing quests on ’90s trivia. A live band entertains the last Thursday of every month, covering popular ’90s songs that range from Britney Spears to Oasis. Associates hand out slap bracelets, headbands and sunglasses to get guests into the experience.

“Topgolf really empowers our associates to feel like they can be themselves,” Belew said.

Topgolf also caters to individual groups, accommodating graduation parties, anniversaries, corporate events, bachelor and bachelorette parties, proposals and birthdays. Belew and Collins said they have even host a baby gender reveal party. Belew said they set the lights to change to pink when the family made the announcement. “It was great because it got everybody around them into what was going on,” Belew said.

From 5 p.m. to close on Mondays, the rate is $45 per hour for up to six people. Topgolf estimates one person can play five to six games per hour, and six people will be able to complete a game together in about an hour. The price for two bays Monday through Saturday during PrimeTime hours, or 4:30-11:45 p.m., is $660.

This is called the PrimeTime Flex package, which counts $300 of the cost toward food and beverage purchases and comes with two hours of unlimited play.

Topgolf also offers group membership plans, such as the Family Fun Pass, which is valid from Memorial Day to Labor Day and costs $199 for up to six people during the weekdays until 5 p.m.

Platinum Memberships are also available for $250 per month plus a $125 initiation fee. These plans include unlimited play for up to six people during certain hours, Callaway Club upgrades and discounts on food and private events. Corporate Platinum Memberships are also available.

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Madison Living 27

YMCA

Soaring to success as power scholars

Helping parents Character in kids

BY MARY ANNE SWANSTROM

CULTIVATE

FIND OUT HOW

www.ccslion.com/character

Huntsville Locations

Exchange Place - 256.837.5437 New! Jones Valley - 256.382.7323 ®

covenant classical ® schools & daycare

Cultivate Character 3.5x4.75 HSV.indd 1

28 Madison Living

1/31/2018

You might expect Madison Elementary’s halls to be silent during summer as kids are at camp, on vacation or chilling at home.

But this summer once again, the school’s classrooms are filled with the happy-chatter children speaking 15 languages including Spanish and Russian, Cantonese, Tamil and Haitian Creole.

It’s the English Learners annual summer camp that targets students whose native tongue is not English. The camp supports academic and language needs, helping students to avoid summer learning loss as they strengthen their language and cultural awareness skills. This year’s camp has 85 kids and is a growing partnership between Madison City Schools, the Community Foundation’s SAIL (Summer Adventures in Learning), and the Heart of the Valley YMCA. “This new partnership with the YMCA takes our camp to a higher level, offering students opportunities we were not able to provide before,” said Dr. Natalia Dooley, Federal Programs Coordinator for Madison City Schools. “While addressing the summer learning loss, kids with the generous support of the YMCA are able to swim, attend Camp Cha-La-Kee and learn ways to build a stronger community.”

At MES this year, the halls are decorated with kids’ favorite super8:44:38 AM heroes. They are all there to learn more English and receive enrichment in reading and math in the Power Scholars Academy program supported by Heart of the Valley YMCA, BELL University, Madison City Schools and SAIL. BELL (Building Educated Leaders for Life) is a non-profit organization that offers resources and expertise to deliver Power Scholars Academy to children in grades K-8.

“The goal of this Power Scholars Academy is to help with language acquisition,” said Lamont Singleton, Heart of the Valley YMCA Director of Youth Development and Social Responsibility. “We have a wide range of families we are serving, from highly educated professionals to children from families of little financial means, but they all receive value from their children learning English in a positive, non-judgmental classroom.”

The EL students are smart kids, and this isn’t summer school. But children from non-English speaking homes are at a special disadvantage come fall if there is little exposure to English during summer vacation. Without summer learning activities, studies show that children tend to lose reading and math skills, gain weight and face increased risks of negative social behavior. Power Scholars Academy is the Y’s evidence-based answer to summer learning loss.

The English Learners Power Scholars Academy is one of five PSA sites in Madison and Marshall counties.

Children are learning English around their peers, and “they are not intimidated if they don’t use exactly the right English word, and that’s huge,” Singleton added.

Madison City Schools is a very diverse school system with more than 50 languages spoken at homes throughout the district.

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MADISON HOSPITAL

Tiny gowns made with love

BY SUE ESSLINGER A wedding dress from 1990 that had been gathering dust in a closet is helping parents in Madison cope with the unexpected loss of a baby.

A few months ago, Shari Crowe, Madison Hospital’s Director of Perioperative Services, Obstetrics and Materials Management, donated her wedding dress to be turned into tiny bereavement gowns for stillborn babies.

Local seamstress Lorrie Brown created 11 ornate, custom-made satin gowns from the dress. Madison Hospital recently gave away the first gown to a couple who lost a child.

“Parents who lose a baby unexpectedly often don’t have special clothing for the baby to wear to the funeral home or to be buried in,” said Renee Colquitt, CRNP, Madison Hospital’s Manager of Perinatal Services. “With these gowns, we now have something beautiful to give to grieving parents.”

A growing number of U.S. hospitals have bereavement gown programs to help support families who have just lost a baby. The gowns — which often contain intricate beadwork and delicate lace — are typically used for final pictures and burial, and are given to the parents at no charge.

Brown said she and two friends from a Madison United Methodist Church sewing group, Alice Mockingsturm, and Debbie Whitaker, previously made 42 “angel dresses” for Madison Hospital using store-bought fabric.

“I would say a little prayer for God’s guidance on making each one,” Brown said. “I hope the dresses allow those mothers (who lose a baby) to realize that others share in their grief.”

After making 11 tiny gowns from the train and skirt of the donated wedding dress, she used some of the leftover fabric to create a ring bearer’s pillow as a gift for Crowe who hopes her sons will use the pillow on their wedding day.

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Madison Living 29

FOOD& DRINK

SAVORY AND SWEET Fire up the pizza and cool down with gourmet pops WRITTEN BY GREGG L. PARKER PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOSHUA BERRY AND CONTRIBUTED 30 Madison Living

T

Tina Ford and Stan Stinson started small in the food industry, established a niche and now own Earth and Stone Wood Fired Pizza, along with Frios Gourmet Pops.

About five years ago, they started with a wood-fired oven on a trailer and vended at local farmer’s markets and breweries as they developed their business. They also owned Fire and Spice food truck, which developed quite a following at Blue Pants Brewery in Madison.

“We sold the truck to the young couple that was operating it for us when we opened our first pizza restaurant at Campus 805 in Huntsville inside Yellowhammer Brewery,” Tina said. Stan’s experience in managing Cracker Barrel restaurants 20-plus years ago helped their ventures.

In choosing a location for Earth and Stone, Tina and Stan had been searching sites for a couple of years for their locally-owned business. They narrowed the

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search to Madison for its vibrant, growing atmosphere.

“We opened Earth and Stone in late October 2017 in the shopping center just west of Target on U.S. Highway 72. We are in the same center as Taziki’s and Dunkin’ Donuts,” Stan said.

“Madison has welcomed us with open arms,” Stan added. “Earth and Stone continues to grow as more residents discover that we’re here and experience the quality of our food. Our new Frios Gourmet Pops store on County Line Road opened with a bang and continues to do very well.”

Earth and Stone’s most popular pizza is the Patriarch, named for Stan’s father. This pizza includes pepperoni, Italian sausage, bacon, red onions, red bell peppers and fresh mushrooms. “It’s a classic ‘supreme’ pizza that highlights the quality meats and freshest of vegetables,” Stan said.

The key advantages of cooking pizzas in a wood-fired oven versus an electric or gas oven, Stan said, are taste and speed. “We cook around 850-900 degrees. The high heat allows the pizza to cook in a little less than two minutes with a light, airy crust, highlighted by a little char for flavor.”

At Earth and Stone, guests can imbibe local craft beer on tap while enjoying a pizza. Options from Yellowhammer Brewing, Salty Nut Brewery and

32 Madison Living

Blue Pants Brewery are available, along with a number of local canned beers.

Frios Gourmet Pops was Tina and Stan’s choice in franchises “because they make pops the way we make ice cream at Earth and Stone,” Tina said. “The quality of the ingredients and care to ensure each pop is absolutely delicious is what sets them apart from mass-produced popsicles found in supermarkets.”

Most of their fruit pops are organic and contain only natural sugars found in the fruits or juices that they use to make the frozen treats. Frios pops don’t contain an abundance of artificial flavors and syrups.

“We carry 37 flavors at present and have a large assortment of fresh, fruit-based pops, as well as ice creambased pops with exciting flavors,” Tina said. “Two of our

Madison Living 33

presents

BUSINESS EXPO & KIDS DAY 2018 among the

Drag ons

&

tles s a C

JULY 28 * 10am - 2pm HOGAN YMCA

FREE TO ND ATTE

60+ businesses showcase their products & services!

Fun activities for kids, including:

The key advantages of cooking pizzas in a wood-fired oven versus an electric or gas oven are taste and speed.

– Stan Stinson

* Face Painting * Bounce House * Courtyard Games * Dunk Tank * Rock Painting

www.madisonalchamber.com (256) 325-8317 34 Madison Living

best sellers are Caramel Sea Salt and Blackberry Ginger Lemonade.”

Stan grew up in Zephyhilles, Florida, and graduated from Mercer University in Macon, Georgia. Tina’s hometown is Hokes Bluff.

Earth and Stone Wood Fired Pizza is located at 107 Brookridge Drive, Madison. For more information call 256-830-8358 or visit earthandstonepizza.com or Earth and Stone Wood Fired Pizza on Facebook.

Frios Gourmet Pops is located at 12181 County Line Road, Suite 200, Madison. For more information call 256-390-9212 or visit friospops.com/location/Madison.

●

ARTS&CULTURE

STARS DANCING FOR HEALS

I

WRITTEN BY STEPHANIE L. ROBERTSON PHOTOGRAPHS CONTRIBUTED

It takes a lot of courage for local Stars to perform at the Stars Dancing for HEALS (Health Establishments at Local Schools) performance.

“The HEALS mission, quite simply, is to provide healthcare to under-served children by providing clinics at their local schools and to make it as easy as possible for them to access healthcare,” explained Earl Reed, HEALS board president and Madison resident.

Stars Dancing for HEALS began 12 years ago to help raise funds for HEALS, Reed said. Based on the popular television series, “Dancing with the Stars,” the local Stars team up with local dance instructors to choreograph and perform a dance routine.

Starting in May, participants commit to raising at least $20,000 for the gala, which takes place every November at the Von Braun Madison Living 35

Blake Bentley

Carmelita Iglesias

Del & J. Renae Smith

Ashley Bullock

Kevin Fernandez

Douglas Downey

Kristina Barbee (KB)

36Stephanie MadisonHendon Living

Bob Broadway

Center. The stars have six months to fundraise and perfect their dance routines.

The public can vote for a favorite Star by mail or on the HEALS website. Each dollar raised counts for one vote. The Star who raises the most money receives an exquisite mirror ball trophy and is named the Top Champion for Children. On the night of the gala, the audience will vote on a Crowd Favorite, who will also receive a trophy. Sometimes a dancer/ instructor team wins both.

“It’s been a very rewarding experience for me, personally,” said Reed, who has danced in the event. “The mission kind of drew me in to wanting to get more and more involved to help the children.”

Dr. Douglas Downey, a surgeon who serves the Madison and Huntsville community, said HEALS provides “an opportunity for children within the community to receive medical care who wouldn’t have healthcare accessible due to financial constraints.”

“It’s a wonderful organization in that regard,” Downey added. “I’ve been to the event a few times with Dr. Waples, and he was the one who suggested that I participate in it.”

Ginger Harper, a board member and previous Dancing for HEALS Star, recruited Kevin Fernandez, a local business man who has several clients in Madison. “I was extremely nervous about it – not for the fundraising part, because I know it’s a great cause, but for the dancing in front of so many people,” Fernandez said. “That’s not something I’ve ever done.”

Nonetheless, Fernandez agreed to participate. “I attended an event last year,” he said. “I saw how much fun it was, but more importantly I saw how powerful the event was. They raised almost $400,000 last year through this event, and HEALS is such a great cause. I’ve seen the kids that they help.

Without HEALS, these kids would not be able to get their basic healthcare needs met.”

them – and give back to Huntsville/Madison community – than to invest in their health at this young age,” Barbee said.

Traci Romine, owner of Madison Ballroom Dance Studio and HEALS instructor, explained the process for working with her Star. First, she discovers the Star’s favorite dance style and music genre.

Romine said even experienced dancers can be nervous when dancing in front of a large crowd, so designing a routine around their preferred music and dance style can help ease the nerves. “I want my students to feel comfortable with what they’re doing and have fun,” (Front row, left to right) J. Renae Smith, Kristina Barbee (KB), Carmelita Iglesias, Ashley Bullock, Stephanie Hendon, (back row, left she added. to right) Del Smith, Kevin Fernandez, Douglas Downey and Blake Bentley, along with (not pictured) Bob Broadway make up the 2018 Stars group.

Romine has won a couple of trophies with previous partConnie Carnes and Ginger Harper recruited Madisonian David ners, Lynn Collyar and David Bier. “It is an amazing outreach,” she Bier. Bier admitted he didn’t know how to dance, and the idea of said of HEALS. “Happy, healthy kids will grow into happier, healthdancing in front of a group of 400 people was daunting. He said he ier adults.” couldn’t imagine raising $15,000, and he didn’t consider himself a local Star, but Carnes and Harper convinced him otherwise.

“I was super-nervous,” said Bier, who decided to take the challenge.

“It was probably one of the best decisions I made. I mean, it was just this defining moment in my career, professional life and community involvement that just really turned the corner of me being here in the community versus being actually engaged in the community. It was just an incredible experience, and I’ve met so many great people.”

Another participant, Kristina Barbee, is mother of three children in the Madison City Schools system. Barbee grew up dancing and was asked to participate by her good friend Lynn Proy – a long-time supporter of HEALS. “It was a very easy yes,” said Barbee. She said she was driven to Dance instructors include (front, from left) Marianne Zollar, Kathy Mohr, Makennah help the children served by HEALS, knowing many of them will be Morring, Traci Romine, (back from left) Roberto Dextre, Christopher Dawson, Hal community leaders one day. “I can’t think of a better way to prepare Reid and Aaron Greer, as well as (not pictured) Gabriela Gonzalez.

●

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Madison Living 37

OUT & ABOUT

BASEBALL IS BACK IN NORTH ALABAMA! PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOSHUA BERRY

The City of Madison, in partnership with BallCorps, held a community groundbreaking event June 9 for the new Minor League Baseball stadium and multi-use venue. The community celebration signified the beginning of construction on the state-of-the-art facility slated to open late 2019 in time for the 2020 baseball season. Community members enjoyed games, face painting and a “name the team� contest during the event.

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Madison Chamber of Commerce CONNECTIONS

CALLING ALL LORDS AND LADIES OF THE REALM! The Madison Chamber of Commerce proclaims July 28th a day of fun and celebration at the Hogan YMCA! This FREE, family-friendly event will take place Saturday, July 28th at the Hogan YMCA from 10am – 2pm. We will have over 60 booths representing the varied businesses in

Town Madison groundbreaking ceremony

our area at this Chamber signature event; visit each booth and learn more about the amazing goods and services our area offers! Our favorite food trucks will be on hand with delicious fare throughout the event.

Kids of the kingdom will enjoy FREE activities include rock and face painting, balloon animals, an inflatable, dunk tank, courtyard games and prizes! There will be tours of the HEMSI ambulance and Madison fire truck, and SARTEC

Town Madison - everyone enjoyed the Baseball Inflatables

will bring their highly-trained rescue dogs to interact with attendees.

While you are at the event, visit with Mayor Paul Finley and City Council Members to learn more about the City of Madison. Meet with a Hogan Family YMCA representative to find out more about their amazing facility. LifeSouth Community Blood Center will also be onsite with their Blood Mobile.

Great turnout for the new ballpark groundbreaking in Town Madison

The MCC Business Expo & Kids Day is FREE to the public and draws thousands of area attendees each year. Come to our Castle and Slay Dragons with us!

Visit www.madisonalchamber.com for more information. If you would like to participate as a vendor, please contact our office at 256-3258317. The Madison Chamber of Commerce is located inside the Hogan Family YMCA at 130 Park Square Lane, Madison AL 35758.

40 Madison Living

130 PARK SQUARE LANE

Another view of the crowd at the new ballpark groundbreaking in Town Madison

MADISON, ALABAMA 35758

Ambassador of the Quarter - Richard Alexander

Beautiful and Rustic Monte Sano Lodge

Business After Hours at MCC Member Monte Sano State Park and hosted at the beautifully rustic Monte Sano Lodge

Ribbon Cutting & Meet and Greet for MCC Member Beignet Cafe

256-325-8317

MCC Quarterly Luncheon featuring Speaker Commissioner Steve Haraway

Ribbon Cutting & Meet and Greet for MCC Member Murphy Home

WWW.MADISONALCHAMBER.COM

Madison Living 41

Marketplace Madison Living • 256.772.6677

Caregivers & Nurses ALWAYS THERE IN-HOME CARE Immediate need, Flexible hours, Benefits available.

Call for more information 256-5391400 www.alwaysthereinc. com BLISS SKIN SPA Part-Time Licensed Massage Therapist Wanted Please Call 256-656-5527 or Send Resume to blissskinspabb@gmail. com Carroll Fulmer Now Hiring Class-A CDL Drivers. Overthe-road positions Available. Dry vans.

No hazmat. Must have one year overthe-road experience and a clean MVR. Competitive pay and bonus package. Good home time. Call 800633-9710 ext. 2 Now Hiring Drivers.

Carry Transit. Decatur, AL Good Pay • Excellent Benefits & Home Time.

Must Have 18mos OTR Experience & Class A-CDL w/Tanker Endorsement. Apply: www.CarryTransit.com Lenders’ New 1st Time Homebuyer’s Plan at Clayton Homes, Cullman. You can be APPROVED! 256-734-1930”

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Economic Solutions & Services • Concrete Work Stained Concrete, Driveways, Patios, Sidewalks and much more!

256-309-9035 *Free Estimates!* Your Vision - Our Team Great Projects -

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•Vintage shotguns •Riffles•Pistols•AR platforms •Kysek Coolers Best selection of affordable outdoor equipment! “Where Technology and the Outdoors intersect”

Round Hay 5x5 (in shed, under cover) Mixed hay. $45/ roll. Square bale.

Mixed Hay. $5/roll or $4.50/100. Located in West Point ALABAMA 256-734-4202 Come Home to Holiday Plaza Apartments (Behind Foodland) Equal Housing Opportunity 256-332-2960 Come work with us as a Caregiver or CNA! Competative wages, Shift premium for weekends, Flexible Schedules, Friendly Staff, Endless Opportunities, Apply today at www. homeinstead.com/250 or call 256-883-3080 Box Trucks Needed A growing company needs independent contractors with vehicles to deliver office and medical supplies all over N AL. Clean BG/MVR/ drug test. Must be customer friendly!!

Weekly settlements!

Call Shasta @ LSO Final Mile. 256-4610069 or email Shasta.

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Now Booking!

Spring, Summer, and Fall. Estate, Antique, Farm Equipment and Real Estate Auctions.

Call Auctioneer Chris McNatt • ASL#1474 • TSL#5074 • Firm 2652 • 256-874-3786 Glass Installers & Construction Laborers. Experience preferred but not required. Starting pay between $12 and $15 per hour, or higher, depending on experience. (256)3539181 Soon the Mark of the Beast Will Be Enforced. Free Book & Bible Study. PO Box 171 • Samantha, AL 35482 205-339-4837 Lake and Pond Fish Stocking: Bass, Bluegill, Shell Cracker, Grass Carp, Catfish, Minnows & more!

Aerators & Fountains.

CALL FOR PRICES! WE DELIVER! 615-9770752

Smith Motors Two locations on Hwy 31, Decatur Lot #1 256-350-9938 Lot #2 256-350-9937 smithmotorsautosales. com Town Hill Mini Storage 160 Units Vacancies All Sizes 256-332-9928 Rock Bridge Canyon Equestrian Park 4D Barrel Race January 6th Free, Donations Only! Practice Run 12:00 Event starts at 2:00 Call for info 205935-3499 Become a Dental Assistant in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website capstonedental assisting.com or call (205) 561-8118 & get your career started!

WARRIOR MET COAL NOW HIRING Located in Brookwood, AL Immediate need for experienced: •Underground Miners •Electricians •Maintenance Foreman •Supervisors Apply online: www.warriormetcoal. com WCA • Roll Off Drivers needed for our Alpine, AL location.

Class A or B CDL is required along with one (1) year of verifiable equivalent commercial truck driving experience.

Must have a valid and safe driving record. We offer competitive wages & a comprehensive benefits package

which includes: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k, Life Insurance, Short & Long Term Disability, Paid Holidays and PTO. Please apply through our website at www. wcawaste.com EOE M/F/D/V DRIVERS Hanna Truck Lines is seeking Professional Flatbed Drivers. 53 cpm No surprises: Starting pay (all miles): 51 cpm, 52 cpm at 6 months, 53 cpm at 1 year.

100% Outbounds loads Pre-loaded & Tarped. 75% Inbound No Tarp. Late Model Peterbilt Trucks. Air Ride Trailers. Home weekends. Low cost BCBS Health & Dental Ins. Matching 401K. Qualifications: 18 months Class A CDL driving experience with 6 months flatbed; Applicants must meet all D.O.T. requirements.

Contact recruiting at 1-800-634-7315 or come by HTL office at 1700 Boone Blvd, Northport. EOE Opies Transport, Inc. NOW HIRING Class A Truck Drivers. Needing to find a home? We are it. Apply today!

800-341-9963 or opiestransport.com

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We are

adored.

As the region’s only Baby Friendly hospital, you’ll find our services are designed for mom and baby. Making your birth experience as unique as you.

Erin and Emma, 4 months old (256) 265-2012 | madisonALhospital.org