HUNTER GOFFINETT • CHAMBER CONNECTIONS • BOB HANNAH
MADISON LIVING March 2020 | $4.95 madisonlivingmagazine.com
PASSION AND PERSEVERANCE DARWAN SALAAM INSPIRES YOUNG ATHLETES
GOODLAND
NEW RESTAURANT PUTS SOUTHERN TWIST ON CALIFORNIAN GASTROPUB
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MADISON LIVING EDITORIAL Rebekah Martin Alison James John Few CONTRIBUTORS Gregg Parker Bob Labbe Richard George Ranae Bartlett Joshua Berry Erin Coggins Lee Marshall Mayor Paul Finley Mary Lynne Wright Mary Anne Swanstrom MARKETING Tori Waits ADMINISTRATIVE Sierra Jackson
••• CONTACT US Madison Publications, LLC 7734 Madison Blvd. Suite 115 Huntsville, AL 35806 Phone: 256-772-6677 Fax: 256-772-6655 madisonlivingmagazine.com 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 2020 by Madison Publications, LLC 4 Madison Living
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CONTRIBUTORS Alison James, copy editor
Alison James earned her bachelor’s degree in journalism at Auburn University, graduating in 2012. She began her career in community journalism in Alexander City and Dadeville, followed by a stop in Opelika before landing in north Alabama. She loves sharing the stories – and correcting the grammar of those stories – of the people and places that make north Alabama such a special place.
John Few, contributing writer John Few has been in the field of newspaper journalism and production for nearly 25 years. John has served as a staff writer for The Demopolis Times, the daily newspaper in West Alabama, and editor for the weekly newspaper the Black Belt Gazette. He was transferred in 2009 to begin his coverage of Madison. In covering the City of Madison the past 10 years, John has reported on several key events, such as construction of the Hogan Family YMCA and James Clemens High School. Over the years, as Madison has grown, John has been there to cover the news that has made Madison home. Together John and his wife, Lori, have seven children, ranging from 15-23 years old.
Bob Labbe, contributing writer
Bob Labbe is a lifelong resident of the Huntsville community. He has been in the local news media for 48 years, a multi-award-winning journalist in television, radio and print media. He is a member of the Huntsville-Madison County Athletic Hall of Fame and has been nominated for both the Alabama Press Association and Alabama Music halls of fame. Bob has hosted a radio program, Reelin’ in The Years, for 29 years on WLRH-FM Public Radio. He has also been a local high school basketball referee for 28 years and was a high school football referee for 15 years. Bob is an avid sports fan and collector of 45 rpm records. He once boxed Muhammad Ali and was the reporter who asked the famed Paul Bear Bryant his last question as coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide.
Gregg Parker, contributing writer
A graduate of Mississippi State University, Gregg Parker relocated to Madison with Intergraph Corporation in 1990 with wife Brenda and son Andy. For 15 years Gregg wrote for “Madison Spirit” and “Limestone Spirit” sections in “The Huntsville Times.” His articles have been published in numerous chamber of commerce publications, “Southern Family Magazine” and “Life on the Water.” Gregg considers it a privilege to document Madison’s coming of age in his hundreds of articles for “The Madison Record” and “Madison Living” magazine. Gregg enjoys spoiling his rescue dachshund, Francis Underwood Parker; binge-watching Netflix series; and visiting Andy and wife Saadia, both physicians, in Nashville, Tenn.
Erin Coggins, contributing writer Erin Coggins is a scholastic journalism adviser and history teacher at Sparkman High School. She is also a freelance writer and public relations consultant. Her writing muse is World War II war correspondent Ernie Pyle, whom she fell in love with while a student studying communications at the University of Alabama. Erin and her husband Jamie reside in Madison.
Joshua Berry, photographer Joshua Berry has a degree in biology and works full time as an aquatic instructor for the City of Huntsville. He is also an avid runner, ranging from short to long distances. When he’s not spending time with his wife and daughter, he enjoys trying to capture the perfect moment on his camera. As the owner of Everlong Photography, his advice for beautiful pictures is that nothing looks better than being confident in oneself.
11 33 FOOD & DRINK 11 GOODLAND
23
New restaurant puts Southern twist on Californian gastropub
17 Smokin’ Good Time @ the Ricky Shack
SCHOOL & SPORTS
23 PASSION AND PERSEVERANCE Darwan Salaam inspires young athletes
ARTS & CULTURE
33 GALLANTLY STREAMING
Local teen brings people together through the American flag
IN EVERY ISSUE: 7 The Guide 10 #MadisonLife 40 Out & About 44 Chamber Connections 46 Madison Restaurant Guide Madison Living 5
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FROM THE EDITOR
W
What’s one thing Madison people have in common? I say it’s pretty clear most folks who call Madison home want to see the city grow and prosper – become an even better place to live, work and play. It’s an honor to play a small role in sharing the stories of interesting people in Madison, and I love every single story in this issue of Madison Living. If you’re looking for new eats, I recommend giving Goodland Pour House a try. The scratchkitchen is new to the city, and owners Nathan and Paige Simandle brought the Goodland all the way from California to Madison when they opened in November. It’s a treat for even the most eclectic palates. As far as eats go, don’t forget to also turn to page 17 to see what our contributor Richard George is cooking up for us at the Ricky Shack.
HUNTER GOFFINETT • CHAMBER CONNECTIONS • BOB HANNAH
MADISON LIVING March 2020 | $4.95 madisonlivingmagazine.com
PASSION
AND PERSEVERANCE DARWAN SALAAM INSPIRES YOUNG ATHLETES
GOODLAND
NEW RESTAURANT PUTS SOUTHERN TWIST ON CALIFORNIAN GASTROPUB
We also feature a student at Sparkman High School in this issue. As an Eagle Scout project, Hunter Goffinett built a flag retirement pit in the downtown Madison Park. Goffinett comes from a long line of veterans, and he knew that he wanted his project to be influenced by that. Finally, we feature Darwan Salaam who, among other things, is an athlete and owner of a fitness incubator on Highway 72 in Madison. Salaam played football at Alabama and in an indoor league in Sweden before returning to his roots. It’s there where he encourages, inspires and trains young athletes to follow their dreams. As you can see, this issue is chock full of feel-good stories about our friends and neighbors in Madison. Thanks for reading,
ON THE COVER Darwaan Salaam is a graduate of Sparkman High School and a college athlete turned trainer and coach. Photo by Joshua Berry
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rebekah.martin@madisonlivingmagazine.com
THE GUIDE
MARCH 7 10:30 A.M.
BLAST OFF BOOK FESTIVAL
The Guide is sponsored by
The Madison Public Library is excited to announce this second annual author event for children. This year’s guest is New York Times best-selling author and illustrator Jarrett Krosoczka. His titles include several picture books, the wildly popular “Lunch Lady” graphic novels and the “Platypus Police Squad” middle-grade novels. He also recently launched a new story arc in the Jedi Academy series with “Star Wars Jedi Academy: A New Class.” Krosoczka’s latest book, “Hey, Kiddo,” is a profoundly important memoir about growing up in a family grappling with addiction. This free event is sponsored by the Huntsville Library Foundation, Madison City Schools and the Madison Friends of the Library. Signed books will be available for sale at the library. More details can be found at hmcpl.org/ madison. Madison Living 7
THE GUIDE
MARCH 4 4-9 P.M.
Roller Derby Double Header Madison is home to not one but two roller derby leagues, and fans can see them both at Insanity Skate Complex to kick off their new season. The Dixie Derby Girls battle Montgomery and the Rocket City Rebels in scrimmage for a night of hard-hitting, family-friendly fun in Madison. More details and ticket information are available at www. dixiederbygirls.com.
MARCH 14
11:30 A.M.
43rd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade This annual local tradition will start at 11:30 a.m. in downtown Huntsville. Presented by the Irish Society of North Alabama, this parade is a celebration of Irish culture and heritage in a positive family atmosphere. Don’t forget to wear green! See the parade route at irishsocietyna.org/ parade.
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THE GUIDE
MARCH 21
10 A.M. TO 2 P.M.
Car Show and Kids Fest Speed into spring at this fun day for families and car enthusiasts taking place at Asbury Methodist Church. Attendees will see an awesome display of vintage cars, hot-rods, muscle cars, imports and more works of automobile art. There will also be fun inflatables and activities for children, including obstacle courses, face decorating, the Big Green Bus and a SWAT truck. It’s all free, including food. Find more details at www.weareasbury.com/events.
MARCH 30
National Take a Walk in a Park Day
There are 37 parks in the City of Madison, and community members might want to see how many they can explore for National Take a Walk in a Park Day. Stop by Dublin Park for a fun day of prizes and refreshments and share the day’s adventures on social media with #TakeAWalkInAParkDay Madison Living 9
#MadisonLife Use #MadisonLife or tag Madison Living in your posts on Instagram, and we’ll pick our favorites to publish in each issue.
@alliyahoutspoken I’m staring 19 weeks in the face today, wondering how it’s here already. While still counting down the ones until we meet her.
@renemccurry Fun time celebrating my Moms birthday!! Thank you, Scott, for an amazing dinner!
@livinlikelexic It’s finally sweater weather 10 Madison Living
@hlackey91 Couldn’t possibly love her any more than I already do
FOOD&DRINK
GOODLAND New restaurant puts Southern twist on Californian gastropub WRITTEN BY ERIN COGGINS PHOTOS BY JOSHUA BERRY Madison Living 11
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Nathan and Paige Simandle formerly lived in the “Goodland,” the nickname given to Goleta, California. When they moved to Madison more than a year ago, they brought the “Goodland” with them. “When we drove down Interstate 565 for the first time, I noticed the beautiful tall, pine trees,” Paige said. “I turned to my husband and said, ‘This is the goodland, too.’” That scene of tall pine trees adorns the wall of their newly-opened restaurant on County Line Road, Goodland Pour House. The restaurant,
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opened Nov. 5, is the couple’s take on the Californian Gastropubs Nathan cooked in on the West Coast. “I love cuisine from all over the world, and I like to pair it with beer. I like to do my own spin on Mexican, Chinese – just making food eclectic,” Nathan said. “When I was looking at items for our menu, I wanted to do an artichoke and kale dip but decided to put a Southern twist on it and use collard greens and pimento cheese. It really worked. People are always asking for the recipe.” Nathan, a chef for more than 20 years,
developed a passion for the kitchen when he was a teenager, cooking snacks for his friends. He attended culinary school in Santa Barbara, and the rest he said “just came together.” “I used to watch this show called Great Chefs of the World. I was fascinated,” Nathan said. “I watched cooking shows before the Food Network became famous.” Although the restaurant employs a line of cooks, Nathan cannot resist contributing in the kitchen. His favorite item on the menu is the Detroit pizzas, for which he makes the dough from scratch daily.
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Madison Living 13
14 Madison Living
“There is something about making the dough – something about watching it rise,” Nathan said. “I hope the customers like it, because it is like my child.” Customers have responded well to another item on the menu, the Cake Shake. This dessert overload begins with a thick chocolate shake, topped with a huge slice of moist chocolate cake. The glass rim is covered in frosting and sprinkles. “I have seen other places do it, so I had to bring it here. It’s so over the top,” Nathan said. “It’s perfect for sharing, and where we can slip more chocolate in, we do.” These unique menu items were not created overnight; Nathan has been perfecting his recipes over the years. They are from notes and from recipes that have gotten lost and rediscovered. Just like the recipes, the idea for the Simandles’ first restaurant has been in the planning for years.
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Madison Living 15
“I have kept a notebook with all of our ideas in it; everything we envisioned for years was written down,” Paige said. “For instance, the color yellow you see in the restaurant was planned. We wanted a minimalist decorated place to sell beer that created a comfortable place to hang.” The planned decor of yellow, faux brick and black and white murals became a family project with the Simandles’ two sons, 16-year-old Elliot and 14-year-old Owen, chipping in to help install parts of the faux brick wall. The personal touch is seen in everything from the handwritten beer tap signs to the carefully thought-out rotating food and beer menu. Nathan said he loves craft beer and wants to ensure repeat customers can try something new with the rotating beer taps and someone who has not tried a craft beer can be introduced to a variety. “The craft beer industry is relatively new here. It’s still growing,” Nathan said. “It’s a great time for us to be here.” Putting in close to 100 hours a week, the Simandles said they are dedicated to making their new establishment a community hub where people return week after week. They want the restaurant to be fun and accessible. Music and catchy food item names add to the vibe. “I grew up in the ’80s and ’90s, so I like to use nostalgic references,” Nathan said. “We want people to be able to come dressed up or in their Uggs and sweatpants.” Besides serving quality food and offering a comfortable environment, the Simandles want their restaurant to a part of the community, with a focus on giving back as much as possible. The establishment’s manager, Anna McCormack, coordinates the Weekly Spaghetti Wednesday, where $5 of each $10 all-you-can-eat pasta is donated to a local charity. “We do want to be more than just a restaurant,” Nathan said. “We like the neighborhood feel of our location. We can always put in the hours and take home enough money to survive, but giving back will always be a part of our business.” 16 Madison Living
FOOD&DRINK
SMOKIN’ GOOD AT THE RICKY SHACK Ribs, ribs and ribs STORY BY RICHARD GEORGE PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED 17 Madison Living
Madison Living 17
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Pork ribs are the most popular ribs in America. They can be grilled, smoked, boiled, braised, roasted and fried. Most cooks recognize baby back, St. Louis style and country style ribs. The St. Louis style, trimmed from spare ribs, are generally meatier than baby back ribs and are more forgiving if overcooked or undercooked. Let’s get smokin’.
heavy duty aluminum foil packet, long enough to tightly wrap each rack of ribs individually. Cover the bottom of each packet with 1/3 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of butter or margarine, 1/3 cup of honey and 1/3 cup of apple juice. After two hours of smoking at 275 degrees, remove the ribs from the smoker and set each rack, meat side down, into a foil packet and wrap them tightly. This process will trap the steam inside the foil packet and help tenderize the ribs. Place the ribs back on the smoker, keeping the meat side down, and continue to You will immediately recognize there is a smoke for one and a half to two hours, rotating thin membrane on the bone side of the slab. occasionally. An easy way to test doneness is to This membrane should be removed by sliding Richard George insert a toothpick into the meat; when it feels an oyster knife or another flat utensil under @ricky_shack like you are sticking the toothpick into a tub of the membrane and lifting enough to grasp the butter, it is perfectly cooked. membrane. A paper towel is quite handy to grip Carefully open the foil packs and allow the steam to escape. and peel off this membrane. It can sometimes be difficult to Discard the liquid and the foil packs. remove, but it is well worth the effort. Place the St. Louis style ribs back on the grill, this time bone Some prepackaged ribs already have the membrane removed, or you can request that your butcher remove it. side down, and brush on your favorite BBQ sauce. My favorite This membrane, if left on the ribs, keeps the spices from sauces are Blues Hog Smokey Mountain, Stubbs Original, Sweet Baby Ray and The Little Dooey Mild BBQ Sauce. Allow permeating the meat. The ribs should be cut into as few pieces as possible to the ribs to become tacky. Remove the ribs from your smoker or easily fit on your grill. Rinse the ribs and pat them dry. Many grill and enjoy!
ST. LOUIS STYLE SPARE RIBS
cooks like to cover or slather the ribs with yellow mustard, and some like to use peanut oil. You can enhance the flavor of your ribs by covering them liberally with a dry rub, which can be as simple as equal parts kosher or sea salt, freshly ground black pepper and paprika. Several of my favorite dry rubs are Bad Byron’s Butt Rub, Killer Hogs BBQ Rub, Bone Suckin’ Sauce and Emeril’s. Allow your ribs to absorb the dry rub for approximately one hour before smoking. The Thin Blue Swine Competition Barbecue Team is a Grand Champion Alabama barbecue team made up of Jennifer and Tim Evans. Jennifer and Tim are both in law enforcement and are members of the Alabama BBQ Association and the Kansas City Barbeque Association. Tim is a Certified KCBS judge. They graciously agreed to share some tips on smoking St. Louis Style spare ribs; however, their wet and dry rubs are a family secret, and I promised not to pry or disclose any secrets. Tim cooks on a Stump’s Smoker, which is a Gravity Feed System used by many competitive teams. His ideal cooking temperature is 275 degrees. Pecan wood intensifies the sweet flavor of the ribs, which should be placed bone side down on the fire. Estimated cooking time of ribs at this temperature is two hours. During this two-hour period, the ribs should be sprayed or spritzed every 30 minutes with water to keep them moist. The ribs should be rotated but should not be flipped over. While the ribs are smoking, prepare a double-layered, 18 Madison Living
BABY BACK RIBS
A popular method of cooking baby back ribs is sometimes referred to as the 2-2-1 method. Trim the ribs so they will fit your grill or smoker, remove the clear membrane from the bone side of the rib rack and rub them down with yellow mustard. Coat both sides of the ribs with your favorite dry rub and prepare an indirect charcoal fire to 250 degrees. When your fire is stabilized, add apple wood chunks for smoky flavor. Place the ribs on the grill, bone side down. Close the lid and smoke for approximately two hours. After two hours, place the ribs into an aluminum pan, add a splash of apple juice to the bottom of the pan and cover with aluminum
foil to help retain moisture. Continue to cook the ribs in this aluminum covered pan for two more hours. After that two hours, remove the ribs from the pan and place them back on the grill, bone side down. Continue to smoke the ribs for approximately one hour. If you like barbecue sauce covered ribs, rub your favorite sauce on the meaty side of the ribs. If you like dry ribs, skip the BBQ sauce. Remove the ribs from your smoker or grill and enjoy!
COUNTRY STYLE RIBS
Country Style Ribs are not really ribs at all and are not allowed in BBQ competitions. They are easy to find and simple to cook. Trim off any excess fat, sinew or cartilage. Rinse the ribs, pat them dry and slather with yellow mustard. Lightly sprinkle with Everglades Seasoning (salt, garlic and onion) and fresh ground black pepper. Prepare your fire for indirect heat. When your fire is stabilized at 225-250 degrees, then add cherry wood chunks for sweet smoky flavor. With the lid closed, smoke the country style ribs for approximately three hours. Turn these ribs occasionally until internal temperature reaches 190-200 degrees. Add your favorite barbecue sauce during the last 15 minutes of cooking time, if desired. Remove the ribs from your smoker or grill and tent loosely with aluminum foil, allowing the ribs to rest for approximately 10 minutes. Enjoy!
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CORN ON THE COB
Corn on the cob is a great side dish with ribs. Why not get your bib out so you can “gnaw� on the bones and the cob! Leave the corn in the husk but cut away any exposed silk. There is no reason to soak the ears in water. I find that microwaving the ears about six minutes and then putting them on the grill for an hour gives you a slight hint of smoke but leaves tender kernels. Place the corn around the edge of your grill while finishing up that final hour of smoking your ribs. Shuck the corn and simply add butter, salt and pepper, to taste.
204 Main St., Madison al 35758 256.325.1919 Tues - fri 10-5 Sat 10-4
Madison Living 19
Cousin Pat’s Brownies INGREDIENTS • 1 stick butter
• 2 cups sugar • 3-4 tablespoons cocoa • 1/2 tablespoon salt • 3 large eggs • 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour • 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans • 2 teaspoons vanilla • Icing (recipe follows)
INSTRUCTIONS
Mix butter, cocoa and eggs. Set this aside. Mix sugar, flour and salt and then add to butter mixture. Blend well, then add vanilla and pecans. Bake this mixture at 325 degrees in a 9x13 Pyrex dish for 3045 minutes. Spread icing on hot brownies. For the icing, mix:
• 3 cups confectioners’ sugar • 1/3 cup milk • 1/3 cup cocoa • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla 20 Madison Living
• 3 tablespoons butter
FROM THE OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
We want to hear from you
M
Paul Finley Mayor City of Madison
Madison is a digitally-focused community, and at city hall we are working diligently to make sure citizens have access to our local government. An easy way to stay engaged and knowledgeable about city happenings is through www.madisonal.gov. A couple of key functions on our website are helpful when looking for information or communicating with us. As you scroll the main page, you’ll notice a “Let Us Know” option. This is a great portal to ask questions or alert us to any issues our departments might be able to rectify. Also on our main page, you can subscribe to our “Notify Me” option. Customize the alerts to your device via text or email to remain current on city news, road and traffic information, emergency reports and other communications. Our news and city calendar stay up to date with road projects and/or closures, local events and other various messages. Additionally, the Agendas and Minutes tab is promptly updated to inform our residents on public meetings. Every second and fourth Monday of each month at 6 p.m., our council meetings are live streamed, and you can find the link to watch on YouTube through our Video Updates tab. For WOW users, this content is also broadcast
on our public access channel 42. All video content is updated regularly on our website and YouTube channel, so subscribe and see for yourself the wonderful things Madison is working toward. Our website is mobile friendly, so whether you’re on the go or at your desk, visit www.madisonal.gov to stay informed and take advantage of this public resource.
AROUND TOWN
Hope on a mountaintop
P
Lee Marshall Founder / CEO Kids to Love Foundation
Peace, hope and refuge are taking shape on a mountain in Tennessee as we begin to dream about the potential for our newest property. Some of those dreams are already in motion. Cerro Tranquillo, which translates to Tranquil Mountain, is a beautiful estate in Lincoln County, Tennessee, given generously to Kids to Love by Rey and Cynthia Almodovar. It is teeming with promise and possibility and will serve our kids well. This summer it will become home base for our Camp Hope outreach, welcoming brothers and sisters who are separated in the foster care system. We will host four week-long camps for siblings, and we couldn’t be more excited about the memories our kids will create on the mountain. Camp Hope is not a new mission; it has existed
for years in temporary places provided to us so we can create connection for siblings. Cerro Tranquillo brings a sense of permanency, and it makes sense because permanency is what our kids need. Kids to Love itself operated for years out of donated spaces; we could not have served foster children without those places. But when we found our permanent home on Castle Drive in Madison we were able to serve in bigger and meaningful ways, among them providing emergency assistance on a moment’s notice and, of course, starting KTECH, our workforce training initiative. Time will tell what new initiatives and ministries will evolve at Cerro Tranquillo. I hope you’ll join us on the journey and be a part!
Season begins March 12
Join Us! STEIN & DINE
Visit the U.S. Space & Rocket Center Saturn V Hall on Thursdays from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., beginning March 12, for the German Biergarten, featuring authentic German cuisine. Enjoy the festive atmosphere, local craft beers, imported and domestic beers and delicious wines from the German region. Family-friendly, rain or shine! Dog are welcome outside on the Apollo Terrace and courtyard! We are proud to feature and share a portion of the proceeds with a selected local charity each week!
RocketCenterUSA 22 Madison Living
SCHOOL&SPORTS
PASSION AND PERSEVERANCE
Darwan Salaam II inspires young athletes WRITTEN BY ERIN COGGINS PHOTOS BY JOSHUA BERRY
Madison Living 23
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Former Auburn great Bo Jackson is Darwin Salaam II’s favorite all-around athlete. And like Jackson’s famous slogan “Bo Knows,” Salaam, too, knows sports. A 2004 graduate of Sparkman High School, Salaam lettered in both football and basketball. He went on to play football at Stillman College in Tuscaloosa before deciding to walk on the football team at the University of Alabama in 2005. His fouryear tenure for the Crimson Tide allowed him to learn from one of college football’s best: Coach Nick Saban. “I believed a lot in myself when I left high school, but I still needed to learn how to be confident,” Salaam said. “Being a walk-on allowed me to gain the humility I needed. You think you practiced better than those who start; yet, you don’t start.”
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Salaam’s humility, however, did not kill his dream of wanting to play in the National Football League. He played three years of semi-professional indoor football in Birmingham and then moved on to an indoor team based in Bloomington, Illinois. When that ended, he traveled to Sweden in 2016 to play for the Uppsala 86ers, an outdoor football team. “I had tunnel vision. I still thought I was going to be a multiple Super Bowl wide receiver,” Salaam said. “Then I had to snap into reality. After that last indoor season, I knew I had to try to make it in the professional world without being an athlete.” After a year of coaching the football team in Sweden he had played for the previous year, Salaam took a job at Girls Inc. in Huntsville. “I ran the after-school programs. My audience was all girls, and I learned how to be a role model,” Salaam said. “I was learning how to instill confidence to young people.” Through this sidestep, Salaam said he realized he enjoyed working with young people—that he had something to offer them. He dreamed up the HITS Squad, an athletic training program. “I wanted to do something that would impact all athletes,” Salaam said. “Whatever is needed to make young athletes mentally stronger, I want to provide. I want kids to have what I could have benefitted from at their age. My middle school coach, Len Lanier, believed in me before I believed in myself. Without him, I wouldn’t be the coach I am today. I want to be a Len Lanier for others.” The HITS Squad led to SQUAD INC, and through connections he made in Sweden, Salaam traveled to Japan to train the X league’s Tokyo Creators. He was already building a brand for a business he had in the back of his mind. “The Japanese culture is more suitable for American football than America is,” Salaam said. “Hard work and discipline is their culture. They will not allow spitting on the field, not because it’s nasty but because someone might step in it. That’s how they think. It’s about others. The team dynamic is a big part of their culture.” Then 2018 rolled around. Salaam, with scribbles of his big idea tucked away in a notebook, met Louis Whitlow. Whitlow, a former college baseball player, was looking for the same thing as Salaam—a way to motivate young athletes.
My middle school coach, Len Lanier, believed in me before I believed in myself. Without him, I wouldn’t be the coach I am today. I want to be a Len Lanier for others. – Darwin Salaam II
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“Together we transformed our individual mindset to a team mindset. We came up with a true business model – a long term one,” Whitlow said. “Darwin had the mindset, and together we shaped it to a different form.” The partnership, which both characterize as “unreal,” led to the opening of The Compound 256 Jan. 16, 2020. One part of the Compound is SQUAD INC, and the other is a fitness business incubator. Young athletes in all sports can train at the Highway 72 location. With a few weeks now in business, co-owners Salaam and Whitlow and their partner Ryan Guy are training about 50 individuals and teams. “Our company motto is 100 for 100,” Salaam said. “We give 100 percent, and we expect 100 percent in return.” SQUAD INC is much more than a name. It is an acronym for what young athletes will glean from training at The Compound. SQUAD stands for Superior Quality Unmatched Athletic Development, and INC represents Individuals N CAMP. The acronym goes further, with CAMP standing for Core, Agility, Muscle and Program. “We start with a dynamic warm-up, followed by core strengthening and then agility,” Salaam said. “It’s really a holistic approach to youth athletic development.” The fitness incubator stems from Salaam’s philosophy of giving back to the community. He is the founder of the Local Legend Charity, a nonprofit that has hosted charity basketball games and from 2011-2019 has held a turkey drive at Thanksgiving. “I guess you can say I am good at starting a nonprofit flat broke,” Salaam said. “I started the charity after the 2011 tornadoes. It has gone nationwide with a friend of mine from high school conducting a turkey drive in his hometown of Los Angeles.” Salaam, whose giving back includes coaching for his alma mater, said he loves to give off positive energy in a toxic world. He added he is grateful for a dream come true and said he lives every day without regrets – a mindset he wants to pass on to those who train at The Compound. “I am heading back to Japan in July. We want to have an impact both locally and globally,” Salaam said. “I never thought small with this idea. The young athletes should learn the same. If you set the bar high, you will find a way to meet it.”
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THE FIRST ANNUAL
SUMMER CAMP GUIDE 2020 Featuring North Alabama summer camps Madison Living 29
If it’s adventure and thrills your child is seeking this summer, High Point Summer Rock Camps are the place to be! In addition to rock climbing, campers will also learn about teamwork, communication and trust. High Point Climbing Summer Camps run for nine weeks in the summer, starting June 1 and ending July 31. Each week of camp runs Monday-Friday from 9:00am to 1:00pm and include a t-shirt, healthy snack, and all the gear needed for climbing. Campers of all ages will have the ability to climb and learn age-appropriate skills, and kids 9 and older will have the opportunity to rappel. In addition to learning climbing techniques and equipment usage, older children (ages 11-14) will learn how to properly belay, which is the role of the person on the ground who supports the climber by rope. With this skill, campers will learn how to arrest a fall, how to tie specific climbing knots and receive in-depth information about the mechanical side of belaying. Once campers have successfully mastered the skill of belaying, they’ll be able to work with other campers, both their age and younger, to assist them in climbing, all under the supervision of our experienced camp counselors. This promotes high levels of interaction, communication, and teamwork between the campers as they explore the varied climbing terrain High Point has to offer. What sets High Point Summer Camps apart from other camps? Each day will be four hours of physical activity, games, and fun, leaving campers stronger, smarter, and with a sense of self-confidence and accomplishment.
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2020 CAMP DETAILS Ages 5 - 14 New Sessions Every Week June 1 - July 31 9:00a - 1:00p For more information, visit HighPointClimbing.com/Huntsville
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GALLANTLY STREAMING Local teen brings people together through the American flag WRITTEN BY ERIN COGGINS PHOTOS BY JOSHUA BERRY Madison Living 33
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Having been surrounded by veterans his entire life, Sparkman High School junior Hunter Goffinett knew when it came to choosing his Eagle Scout project, it had to be veteran oriented. “My dad is a veteran of the Marines, and my grandpa is a veteran of the Navy,” Goffinett said. “Plus, all of the veterans in the Scouts have led me to even more connections with veterans through American Legion Post 229.” In fact, the American Legion connects prominently to Goffinett’s project as he constructed the flag retirement pit in the American Legion designated area for veterans in downtown’s Madison Park. “The idea of the flag retirement pit came to me when we had a flag retirement ceremony and didn’t have an actual designated location,” Goffinett said. “We had to use giant burn barrels instead, which led to scorch marks in the ground, and it seemed to take the properness out of the ceremony.” Goffinett proposed the idea to American Legion Post 229 to get the members’ approval. The next step was presenting his idea for permission at a Madison City Council meeting. 34 Madison Living
A lot of people actually do not know tattered flags need to be retired, and these retirement ceremonies can help teach about the ideals of the flag and what they represent. – Hunter Goffinett
“It was actually a lot easier than I thought it would be,” Goffinett said. “From getting permission to present, it was just a matter of not having stage fright. I presented my idea a few times and gave them updates, and in the end, they agreed to set aside $1,000 to finance my project.” Building the pit took two days, and Goffinett enlisted 25 people to help get the project accomplished. The pit is built with paver sand, gravel, paver stones and a fire ring. In the end, the total cost of the project was $1,500. “When we were building the pit, you had to do a double take every once and a while because of all the Scouts swinging pickaxes,” Goffinett said, “and in the end, we busted a sprinkler and had to patch it up real quick.” After word got out that Goffinett had built the pit, he said his family became known as the “flag retirement people.” Scouts as well as friends and family of Scouts, along with community members, began sending them flags. They eventually collected stacks and stacks of boxes of flags. With the large number of flags to be retired, Goffinett hosted his first flag retirement ceremony, inviting the Sparkman High School Teens for Troops club members to help out. It was the first time he personally used the pit. “I actually liked doing the ceremony with my friends. It makes me feel more relaxed than at a larger ceremony,” Goffinett said. “I think it taught them a lot about the honor and legacy of the American flag and also about the retirement ceremony itself.” Even though it started to rain during his October ceremony, Goffinett said he did not hurry the ceremony along, reading the entire speech about the history and values of the American flag and the triumphs and hardships it has faced throughout time. Teaching people the proper way to retire the American flag is important to Goffinett and one reason this project means so much to him. “A lot of people actually do not know tattered flags need to be retired, and these retirement ceremonies can help teach about the ideals of the flag and what they represent,” Goffinett said. “After the speech, the largest flag is presented, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Then finally, the large flag is retired in the fire pit, followed by the rest of the flags.” Goffinett has been a member of the Scouts since he was 6 years old. The Eagle
Scout project is the last hurdle Scouts take on to get their Eagle Rank. “After I finished all 13 Eagle Merit badges, I took on the project,” Goffinett said. “Once the fire pit was completed, I finally got my rank after 10 years of Scouts.” Besides introducing him to the flag retirement ceremony, Goffinett credits the Scouts for intensifying his affection for giving back to the community, something he describes as improving the quality of life overall.
“Without service and volunteering, many aspects of the community that are beautiful now could fall into disarray and deteriorate, and I believe the Scouts not only maintain the beauty of the community, they go a step beyond that,” Goffinett said. “Through their Eagle Projects, they can create needed improvements that might never reached fruition if the Eagle Scouts were not there. From wheelchair ramps to flower beds, Eagle Projects improve the quality of life for many people.” Madison Living 35
Goffinett’s Eagle Project is designed to do just that. Anyone wanting to retire flags can use the pit. They need to get permission from the American Legion Post 229 for access to the key to the pit, and they also need to inform the Madison Fire Department of the date and time of the ceremony. “The fire pit has allowed a designated area where flag retirement ceremonies can be held for practically anyone,” Goffinett said. “It has been used by the Girl Scouts and the Knights of Columbus, and I believe it has brought people together in a good way – where we can all come together and connect with one another on some of our greatest virtues and ideas.” 36 Madison Living
EDUCATION
MCS begins quest for new leader who can keep schools’ legacy strong
T Ranae Bartlett President Madison City Schools Board of Education
The search for a new Madison City Schools superintendent is well under way. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Robby Parker, who led our system through a period of unprecedented growth. We are happy for him and the opportunities for him in his retirement from Madison City Schools after 31 years. We are also glad he has accepted the Board of Education’s invitation to be our guest speaker at the 2020 graduation ceremonies for both Bob Jones and James Clemens high schools. Mr. Parker’s retirement announcement nearly two months ahead of his departure gives us ample time to screen and interview candidates and appoint a successor within the 180-day limit state law allows. Assistant Superintendent Eric Terrell is serving as interim between Mr. Parker’s Feb. 28 retirement date and the time when the new superintendent comes on board. In accordance with our past practices, a person who accepts the position of interim superintendent is not eligible to apply for the vacant position. Our Board has enlisted the help of our longtime attorney, Woody Sanderson, to guide us through the search process. He has already assisted the Board in obtaining feedback from our stakeholders
through an online survey, as well as public meetings about what they would like to see in our next superintendent. The timetable adopted by the Board sets a March 23 application deadline. Applications go to Mr. Sanderson, and he will use the board’s criteria to narrow the application field to those who will be interviewed. The Board plans to announce finalists at its April 9 meeting and hold interviews April 20-22 – and then April 28, if needed. The interview schedule will be announced publicly, and interviews will be streamed online for those unable to attend. There will also be opportunities for the public to meet the finalists before they are interviewed. The Board plans to name a permanent superintendent at its regularly scheduled April 30 board meeting, with the intent that the new superintendent can start by June 1, 2020. This is an exciting time for Madison City Schools, ranked second out of 137 public school systems in Alabama by most metrics. The Board is mindful of the high standards our community has for its education system and is earnestly searching for a superintendent who can lead our system to even greater heights.
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YMCA
More than fun and games
Mary Anne Swanstrom Director of Communications Heart of the Valley YMCA
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Madison families can look forward to playing together even more this year at the YMCA. The Hogan Family YMCA is continuing its popular Family Play Dates in 2020. Families do not have to be Y Members to participate, and the events are free. “Within the Y, parents and children have opportunities to deepen their relationships, develop new interests and skills and improve their health and well-being,” said Daniel Kasambira, Hogan Family YMCA executive director. “By using our Y facilities to provide family events free to all, we are also helping families connect with their community and each other.” The Hogan Family YMCA is offering a free family event for the community once every month in 2020. January boasted popcorn and a movie, while February offered the opportunity to decorate cookies and make Valentines for seniors. The schedule for the remainder of the year includes: March 13, 6:30-8:30 p.m. – Family Board Games April 18, 9 a.m. to noon – Healthy Kids Day May 22, 6:30-8:30 p.m. – School’s Out for Summer Pizza and Pool Party June 12, 6:30-8:30 p.m. – Ice Cream Social July 10, 6:30-8:30 p.m. – Family Luau (hot dogs and pool party) Aug. 14, 6:30-8:30 p.m. – Concert Night/Talent Show
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Sept. 11, 6:30-8:30 p.m. – Military Night (write letters to soldiers) Oct. 10, 3-5 p.m. – Trunk or Treat Nov. 13, 6:30-8:30 p.m. – Family Thanksgiving Night Dec. 11, 6:30-8:30 p.m. – Cookies with Santa Families are encouraged to check ymcahuntsville.org and the Heart of the Valley YMCA Facebook Events page for information as it is posted. Want to learn more about how families can become healthier and more connected through Y programs and membership? Call Hogan YMCA at 256-705-9622. The Y also offers financial assistance to ensure no one is turned away from a YMCA membership because of monetary reasons.
MADISON HOSPITAL
A mother’s gift
N Mary Lynne Wright President Madison Hospital
Nationally, about 95 percent of placentas are thrown into the trash as medical waste after a baby is born. At Madison Hospital, moms who deliver by scheduled C-section now have the option of donating their placenta to help others. We were the first hospital in North Alabama to partner with Birth Tissue International, which turns the innermost membrane of the placenta, called amnion, into treatments for people recovering from burns, wounds and major surgery. “When I learned about this program and all the amazing things that can be done using amnion, becoming involved was a no-brainer,” said Renee Colquitt, Madison Hospital director of Perinatal
Services. “The donated placentas can benefit people all over the U.S. who are struggling with wounds, burns, joint surgeries and eye problems. It is truly a gift for our parents to share.” Birth Tissue International says small patches of amnion have been shown to reduce pain and speed up healing. The patches are applied directly to the affected body part. A single placenta can yield as many as 250 therapeutic amnion patches. A BTI representative packs the donated placentas on ice and ships them to a laboratory, where the amnion is removed, cleaned and tested. The company is registered with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
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OUT & ABOUT
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CONNECT 2020
Madison Mayor Paul Finley gave a glimpse into what is around the corner for the city at his State of the City Address during Connect 2020 on January 31. Held at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, Connect 2020 included the annual State of the City Address and gala event celebrating the past year and future of Madison. It was presented this year by Facebook and hosted by the Madison Chamber of Commerce. Next year, Connect 2021 will be held at the new Toyota Stadium in Town Madison. PHOTOS BY JOHN FEW 1. Alli Schutzenhofer, Merrill Wright, Pamela Sparks and Felecia Rodgers 2. Mary Caudle, Vicki Woods Morris, Kim Caudle Lewis and Maike DeMaria. 3. Alice and Steve Lessmann 4. Ron and Maura Wroblewski
5. Scott Phillips 6. Travis Cummings, Greg Hulsey, Mayor Paul Finley, Robby Parker, Tim Holtcamp 7. Tommy and Debbie Overcash
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8. Senator Tom and Karen Butler 9. Steve and Donna Haraway
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OUT & ABOUT
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ENCOURAGING WORDS AT COLUMBIA A dynamic group of teachers serve as the Encouraging Words team to boost morale of Columbia students by carrying poster boards with motivational phrases. About 20 teachers take turns each Friday holding the signs. PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED 1. Tonia Porter and Kaitlin Roland
6. Shannon Triolo with students
2. Jessica Pinegar
7. Eliza Lemus
3. Renee Graham
8. Vic Lakso
4. Karen Jump
9. Amanda Riddle
5. Laura Hester
10. Kim Pratt
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Madison Chamber of Commerce CONNECTIONS
CHAMBER COLOR RUN Join the Madison Chamber of Commerce and families from all over Madison March 21 for our first-ever Chamber Color Run. We will kick spring off with an array of color and family fun. Don’t miss out on this certified 5K that will take you through Madison’s quaint downtown area and the onemile Fun Run, perfect for Madison’s youngest runners. The 5K will start at 8 a.m., and the one-mile Fun Run will begin at 9 am. Runners will start out in white and be covered with color as they make their way through the courses.
Ribbon Cutting & Meet and Greet for MCC member Oasis Med Spa
Be sure to get your registration in early. Registration for individuals and groups is available. Go to the Madison Chamber of Commerce website at www.madisonalchamber.com and find the Chamber Color Run on the calendar to register. This will be an exciting event for the Madison community. We are thrilled to have Nesin Therapy Services as our presenting sponsor for this event, and there will be a selection of food trucks and Madison vendors to enjoy. Other sponsorships are still available. Please contact the Chamber at 256-325-8317 for more information
Ribbon Cutting & Meet and Greet for MCC member The Exercise Coach
Available for private parties and on- site catering! (256) 325-3820
Custom catering orders for any event
1591 A Hughes Rd, Madison, AL, 35758
103 SPENRYN DR., MADISON, AL 35758 44 Madison Living
MADISON, ALABAMA 35758
Madison Chamber of Commerce CONNECTIONS
Ribbon Cutting & Meet and Greet for MCC member HLA Consulting
Business After Hours hosted at MCC member Alabama Credit Union
256-325-8317
Connect 2020 – Mayor Paul Finley’s State of the City Address highlights the City of Madison’s accomplishments
Ribbon Cutting & Meet and Greet for MCC member Healthrox
WWW.MADISONALCHAMBER.COM
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A CURATED GUIDE TO MADISON DINING
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MADISON LIVING MAGAZINE offers this curated restaurant listing as a service to its readers. Broken down alphabetically, this directory does not list every restaurant in town. The guide is updated regularly, but we recommend you call ahead to check hours, prices and other details. Suggestions from readers are welcome; please contact us at dining@madisonlivingmagazine.com.
ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFE Casual chain featuring egg dishes & other breakfast items plus brunch sandwiches & a specials board. 7504 Hwy. 72 W. 256-430-5476 Sat - Sun 7am-2pm APPLE LANE FARMS Apple Lane, a restaurant known for their honey glazed hams and overstuffed sandwiches, has locations in Tanner (Decatur) and Madison, Alabama. 8580 Madison Boulevard 256-774-8181 Mon - Fri 10am-6pm; Sat 10am-4pm; Closed Sunday APPLEBEE’S NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL Full-service chain bar & grill providing hearty American eats in an informal setting. 302 Hughes Road 256-772-3441 Mon - Thurs 11am-12am; Fri- Sat 11am-1pm; Sun 11am-11pm ARBY’S Fast-food chain, known for its roast beef, serving up hot & cold sandwiches, fries & shakes. 7785 Highway 72 W 256-864-2303 8817 Madison Blvd 256-772-7465 Sun - Thurs 10am-12am; Fri - Sat 10am-1am BASKIN-ROBBINS 31 ICE CREAM Colorful ice cream parlor chain known for its many flavors plus sorbet & yogurt. 7830 Highway 72 W 256-722-5755 Sun - Thurs 11am-9:30pm; Fri - Sat 11am-10pm BEIGNET CAFE At Beignet Cafe we serve up some of your favorite New Orleans dishes with a Southern flair. Indulge in fresh beignets, Po’ Boys, jambalaya, gumbo and more! 1591 A Hughes Road 256-325-3820 Sun, Tues - Thurs 7am-2pm; Fri - Sat 7am-8pm; Closed Monday BISHOP’S WESTSIDE PUB & GRILL Local pub featuring live music and bar food. 12110 County Line Road 256-325-1069 Sat - Sun 10am-2am
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BRUEGGER’S Cafe/bakery chain preparing small-batch, New York-style bagels, plus breakfast & lunch sandwiches. 347 Hughes Road 256-258-0880 Mon - Fri 5:30am-3pm; Sat 6am-3pm; Sun 7am-3pm BRUSTER’S REAL ICE CREAM Counter-serve chain where all of the ice cream selections are made fresh on-site every day.12143 County Line Road 256-325-6690 Sun - Sat 12pm-9pm BUENAVISTA MEXICAN CANTINA MADISON Mexican street food & Tex Mex favorites served in a convivial atmosphere with tequila drinks.8217 Highway 72 W 256-837-8226 Sun - Thurs 11-9; Fri - Sat 11-10 BURGER KING Well-known fast-food chain serving grilled burgers, fries & shakes, plus breakfast. 8895 Madison Boulevard 256-772-3735 375 Hughes Road 256-461-4080 Mon - Thurs 5:30am-12am; Fri - Sat 5:30am-2am; Sun 6am-12am CAPTAIN D’S SEAFOOD KITCHEN Fast, casual seafood restaurant chain serving fish & seafood dishes, plus sides & desserts.9088 Madison Boulevard 256-461-0397Sun - Thurs 10:30am-10pm; Fri - Sat 10:30-11pm CASA BLANCA Local Mexican chain offering a menu of classic dishes & a full bar in a casual, traditional space.7830 Highway 72 W 256-864-0360 Sun - Thurs 11am-9pm; Fri - Sat 11am-10pm CD’S PUB AND GRILLE Local pub featuring live music and bar food. 107 Arlington Drive 256-772-9133 Sun - Sat 11am-2am
CHAPALA AUTHENTIC MEXICAN Local Mexican chain offering a menu of classic dishes & a full bar. 12090 County Line Road 256-232-4026 Sun - Thurs 11am-9pm; Fri - Sat 11am-10pm CHICKEN SALAD CHICK At Chicken Salad Chick, our food is made fresh and served from the heart. Come in or order online to discover our delicious variety of fresh, craveable flavors! 7709 Highway 72 256-325-1041 Mon - Sat 10am-8pm; Closed Sunday CHINA BUFFET Spacious, no-frills venue offering all-you-can-eat Chinese dishes, sushi & hibachi grill fare. 9016 Madison Boulevard 256-461-7766 Mon - Thurs 11am-9:30pm; Fri-Sat 11am-10:30pm; Sun 11:30am-9:30pm CHINA STAR Chinese food to take out & eat in. 7950 Highway 72 W, Suite J 256-430-0834 Mon - Tues 3pm-10pm; Wed - Sun 10am-10pm CLYDE’S BBQ BBQ from Alabama with a personal twist. 12181 County Line Road 256-715-7823 Mon - Thurs 11-8; Fri - Sat 11-9 CORK & CRUST PIZZERIA + WINE BAR Allow the only certified Sommelier in Madison assist you with finding the perfect drink to ... Cork & Crust will be your favorite spot to bring the family or a date. 12120 County Line Road 256-801-9463 Lunch: Tues - Sun 11am-2pm; Dinner: Tues - Thurs, Sat 4pm-9pm; Fri 4pm-8pm CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE Homey chain restaurant serving American comfort food, with an on-site general store. 120 Cleghorn Boulevard 256-461-7670 Sun - Thurs 6am-10pm; Fri - Sat 6am-11pm
THE MADISON LIVING RESTAURANT GUIDE CRICKET’S Popular sports bar with outdoor seating is a group-friendly draw for burgers, wings & cheese fries. 3810-L Sullivan Street 256-464-3777 Lunch: Mon - Fri 11am-2pm; Dinner: Mon - Sat 5pm-9pm; Closed Sunday CUBAN CAFE Family owned and operated, made from scratch, authentic cuban cuisine. Promenade Point Parkway #195 256-970-4877 Lunch: 11-3 Tues - Sun; Dinner: Tues - Thurs 5-8:30, Fri-Sat 5-9:30, Sun 5-8 DAIRY QUEEN Soft-serve ice cream & signature shakes top the menu at this classic burger & fries fast-food chain. 7584 Highway 72 W 256-890-0802 Sun - Thurs 10am-10pm; Fri - Sat 10am-11pm 11128 County Line Rd(256) 325-2740 Sun - Thurs 10am-10pm; Fri - Sat 10am-11pm DAYLIGHT DONUTS Counter-serve chain serving donuts & its own brand of coffee for sit-down or takeout. 3810 Sullivan Street 256-542-3211 Mon - Sat 5am-4pm; Sun 6:30am-1pm DOMINO’S PIZZA Delivery/carryout chain offering a wide range of pizza, plus chicken & other sides. 437 Hughes Road 256-772-9000 Sun - Thurs 9:30am-12pm; Fri - Sat 9:30am-1am 8800 Hwy 72 W 256-830-8333 Sun - Thurs 10am-12pm; Fri - Sat 10am-1am DONATOS PIZZA Chain selling crispy pizzas featuring provolone cheese & lots of toppings, plus oven-baked subs. “Every piece is important.” 8000 Madison Boulevard 256-772-6789 Sun - Thurs 10am-10pm; Fri - Sat 10am-11pm EARTH AND STONE WOOD FIRED PIZZA Warehouselike pizzeria with wood-fired ovens turning out a variety of pies, plus patio seating. 107 Brookridge Drive 256-830-8358 Mon - Sat 11am-9pm; Sun 11am-8pm EDO JAPANESE RESTAURANT Casual Japanese restaurant serving sushi, udon & nabemono with a full bar & optional tatami seating. 104 Intercom Drive 256-772-0360 Lunch: Mon - Fri 11am-1:30pm; Dinner: Mon - Sat 5pm-9:30pm FIREHOUSE SUBS The best sub sandwiches - steaming hot subs, cold subs. We offer a variety of subs and salads under 500 calories, plus catering. For lunch or dinner. 8572 Madison Boulevard, Suite S 256-774-8028 1079 Balch Road, Suite A 256-325-0231 Sun - Sat 10:30am-9pm FRESH START CAFE Organic, non gmo all natural brunch health conscious and coffee, gluten free and vegan friendly. 7559 US-72 Suite #111 256-325-3944 Mon - Fri 7am-3pm; Sat - Sun 9am-5pm
FRESH TRADITIONS AT PORT OF MADISON Continental cuisine with a Southern flair and an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. 9035 Madison Boulevard 256-772-7170 Breakfast: Mon - Fri 6am-10am; Sat - Sun 7am10am; Dinner: Sun - Sat 5pm-10pm FULIN’S ASIAN CUISINE At Fulin’s Asian Cuisine you’ll discover a fabulous menu inspired by our culture and brought to life by people from all across the world. Shoppes of Madison 256-721-7005 Sun - Thurs 11am-9:30pm; Fri - Sat 11am-10:30pm GOODLAND POUR HOUSE NEW A casual, family friendly, neighborhood gastropub. Affordable, chef inspired, modern American comfort food. Rotating taps of local and regional craft beers. 12110 County Line Road, Suite A 256-325-0316 Lunch: Mon – Fri 11am-2pm; Dinner: Mon – Thurs 4pm-9pm, Fri 4pm-10pm, Sat 4:30pm-10pm, Sun 4:30pm-9pm; Brunch: Sat – Sun 10:30am-2:30pm GROUNDED COFFEE Local coffee house serving hand crafted third wave coffee. Community center with events, music, games, art, and more. 12120 County Line Road 256-258-9637 Mon - Fri 6am-6pm; Sat 7am-5pm; Closed Sun GUADALJARA JALISCO MEXICAN RESTAURANT Quesadillas, margaritas & other classic fare offered in an unpretentious cantina. 8572 Madison Boulevard 256-774-1401 Sun - Tues 10:30am-9pm; Wed - Thurs 10:30am-9:30pm; Fri - Sat 10:30am-10pm GYRO UNO Enjoy an authentic Greek salad at Gyro Uno in Madison, where classic regional fare is featured throughout the menu. 8498 Madison Boulevard 256-325-0346 Mon - Sat 10:30-8pm; Closed Sunday HANDELS ICE CREAM Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream and Yogurt makes ice cream fresh every day at every store, using only the finest ingredients! 207 Tyro Circle HARDEE’S/RED BURRITO OF MADISON Fast-food chain serving fried chicken, big burgers & made-from-scratch breakfast biscuits. 8827 Madison Boulevard 256-772-3270 5870 Wall Triana Highway 256-722-0220 Mon - Thurs 4am-10pm; Fri - Sat 4am-11pm; Sun 5am-10pm HARU KOREAN & SUSHI This family-owned restaurant serves Korean food that is fresh, flavorful and authentic. 8760 Madison Boulevard 256-270-9677 Lunch: 11-2 Mon - Sat; Dinner: Mon - Sat 4:30-8 HUNT CLUB BURGERS N GRILL The Hunt Club serves up burgers, including wild game, hot dogs and sandwiches in a friendly atmosphere. Dine in or on the patio. Kids are welcome. 10871 County Line Road 256-542-3266 10:30-9 Mon-Wed; Closed Thurs
I LOVE SUSHI I LOVE SUSHI has something for everyone from our extensive Japanese Cuisine menu with unique, exciting and creative sushi rolls, sashimi and daily specials. 8429 Highway 72 W 256-325-8818 Lunch: Mon - Fri 11am-2pm, Sat - Sun 11:30am-2:30pm; Dinner: Mon - Thurs 5pm-9:30pm, Fri - Sat 5pm-10:30pm, Sun 5pm-9pm JACK’S Fast-food chain serving standard American eats such as burgers, fries & milkshakes. 145 Hughes Road 256-461-4114 7845 Hwy 72 W 256-964-9754 Mon - Sat 5am-10pm; Sun 6am-10pm JIMMY JOHN’S GOURMET SANDWICHES Counter-serve chain specializing in sub & club sandwiches, plus signature potato chips. 7690 U.S. Highway 72 W 256-864-9997 Sun - Sat 11am-10pm JOE MOES BA-BA-QUE Local barbeque restaurant. 9076 Madison Blvd Suite A 256-325-1211 Tues - Sat 11am-7pm KFC Fast-food chain known for its buckets of fried chicken, plus wings & sides. 8966 Madison Boulevard 256-772-7010 7874 Highway 72 W 256-830-1964 Sun - Sat 10am-10pm KRYSTAL Longtime fast-food chain serving square burgers on steamed buns, plus breakfast items & kids’ meals. 8790 Madison Boulevard W 256-772-8993 Sun - Sat: Open 24 hours! LA PLACITA MEXICAN GRILL Brightly painted cantina doles out familiar Mexican grub, plus lunch specials & a children’s menu. 401 Hughes Road 256-464-3994 Tues - Sat 11am-9pm; Sun 11am-8pm; Closed Monday LAS TROJAS CANTINA Colorful Mexican outpost for fajitas, tacos & ample margaritas & beers in a casual cantina. 7840 Highway 72 W 256-430-1551 Mon - Thurs 11am-10pm; Fri - Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 11am-9pm LAWLERS BARBECUE Cooked slow... Served fast! Local BBQ chain serving St. Louis-style ribs, sandwiches & comfort sides in a casual setting. 544 Hughes Road 256-772-0590 1079 Balch Road Suite 256-217-1767 Mon - Sat 10:30am-8pm; Closed Sunday LIBERATED SPECIALTY FOODS Let us help you take your diet Beyond Paleo@. Liberated® Specialty Foods sells quality, homemade products for your dietary needs. 9048 Segers Road 256-226-0726 Mon - Fri 7am-2pm
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THE MADISON LIVING RESTAURANT GUIDE LITTLE LIBBY’S CATFISH & DINER Old-fashioned restaurant cooking up countrystyle Southern eats, with a focus on fried seafood. 234 Lime Quarry Road 256-772-0191 Mon 10am-3pm; Tues - Wed 10am-8pm; Thurs - Sat 10am-8:30pm; Sun 10am-3:30pm MADISON HOUSE OF PIZZA New York style pizzeria plus calzones, sandwiches, pasta, and more! 8644 Madison Boulevard 256-542-3311 Mon - Thurs 11am-10pm; Fri - Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 11am-8pm MADISON STATION BAR & GRILL Featuring Live Music, Karaoke, Billiards, Sportz Zone Projection HD’s, Great Food, Patio Bar, Cold Beer, Drinks + All Adult. 8694 Madison Boulevard, Suite J 256-325-1333 Mon - Sat 4pm-2am; Sun 4pm-12am MADISON TAPROOM Madison Taproom features craft beers & ciders on 28 taps. We also offer packaged beer, cider, mead, wine, and craft soda. Our selection features options both locally and globally. 7407 Highway 72 W, Ste G 256-384-0662 Mon - Thurs 10am-9pm; Fri - Sat 10am-11pm; Sun 12pm-6pm MAIN STREET CAFE Main Street Cafe is located in Madison Historic District in the former city hall/jail serving southern gourmet food at its finest. Local favorites include Meatloaf, Poulet de Normandie, Georgia Chicken, Bourbon Glazed Pork Medallions, Blackened or Grilled Salmon Salad along with daily lunch and dinner. Mainstreetcafemadison.com 101 Main Street 256-461-8096 Lunch: Mon - Sat 11am-2pm; Dinner: Wed - Thurs 5pm-8pm, Fri - Sat 5pm-9pm; Closed - Sunday MANGIA ITALIAN RESTAURANT Warm, family-friendly eatery offering Italian grub such as pies, salads, sandwiches & calzones. 2007 Hughes Road 256-721-7462 Sun - Sat 10am-9pm MARCO’S PIZZA Enjoy authentic Italian quality pizza. Dough made fresh every day. Sauce from the original Giammarco recipe. Order online for delivery or carry-out. 7559 US 72 West 256-864-2019 Sun - Thurs 11am-10pm; Fri - Sat 11am-11pm 11156 County Line Rd(256) 325-1054 Sun - Thurs 10:30am-10pm; Fri - Sat 10:30am-11pm MCDONALD’S Classic, long-running fast-food chain known for its burgers, fries & shakes. 8005 Highway 72 W 256-772-9584 Sun - Sat 5am-12pm 8841 Madison Boulevard 256-772-0099 Mon - Thurs 5am-1am; Fri 5am-12am; Sat 24 hours; Sun 4am-1am 11178 County Line Rd (256) 772-7766 Sun - Sat 5am-12pm
48 Madison Living
METRO DINER Metro Diner is the kind of place you’re proud to take out-of-towners. Once you walk in, you feel like a local. We serve comfort food with flair. Serving classic American breakfast & lunch fare in a warm atmosphere. 7620 US Highway 72 Suite A 256-929-6541 Mon - Sat 7am-9pm; Sun 7am-8pm MIA’S CAFE At Mia’s Cafe in Madison, AL we offer homemade breakfast, daily specials and warm and friendly customer service. 30694 Hwy 72 W B 256-233-4223 Mon - Fri 7am-8pm; Sat 6am-2pm; Sun 7am-2pm MOD PIZZA MOD Madison serves up personal-size artisan-style pizzas and salads for lunch and dinner. Customize your order from over 30 ingredients – classic to seasonal, and lots of delicious stuff in between. 7626 US Hwy 72, Suite 101 256-970-4441 Sun - Thurs 10:30am-10pm; Fri - Sat 10:30am-11pm OLD BLACK BEAR BREWING COMPANY Brewing is our life, beer is our water so don’t waste time drinking other things. 212 Main Street 256-850-4639Mon - Thurs 4pm-11pm; Fri - Sat 11-11; Sun 10-4 OLD GREENBRIER RESTAURANT Homey BBQ spot for chicken fingers, hushpuppies & fried catfish on an open, farm-adjacent property. 27028 Old Hwy 20 256-351-1800Sun - Sat 10am-8:30pm OLD MEXICO Casual Mexican restaurant in Madison. 140 Browns Ferry Rd(256) 464-6044 Sun - Thurs 11am-9pm; Fri - Sat 11am-10pm OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE The home of juicy steaks, spirited drinks and Aussie hospitality. Enjoy steak, chicken, ribs, fresh seafood & our famous Bloomin’ Onion. 7640 Highway 72 W 256-895-0257 Mon - Thurs 11am-10pm; Fri - Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 11am-9pm PANDA EXPRESS From our world famous Orange Chicken to our health-minded Wok Smart™ selections, Panda Express defines American Chinese cuisine with bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Freshly prepared. Every day. 8598 Hwy 72 West 256-890-8873 Sun - Thurs 10:30am-9:30pm; Fri - Sat 10:30am-10pm PANERA BREAD Food served in our warm, welcoming fast-casual bakery-cafe, by people who care. At Panera Bread Madison, that’s good eating and that’s why we’re serving clean food without artificial preservatives, sweeteners, flavors or colors from artificial sources. 8179 Highway 72 West 256-721-7831 Mon - Thurs 6am-9pm; Fri 6am-9:30pm; Sat - Sun 6:30am-9:30pm PAPA JOHN’S PIZZA Take-out/delivery chain offering classic & specialty pizzas, wings & breadsticks, plus desserts. 12100 County Line Road Ste B 256-772-3111 Mon - Thurs 10am-11pm; Fri - Sat 10am-12pm; Sun 11am-11pm
PAPA MURPHY’S PIZZA Papa Murphy’s Take ‘N’ Bake pizza is the best pizza because we make our dough from scratch, grate our mozzarella, and hand slice our veggies, every day. 7830 U.S. Highway 72 West 256-830-4441 4577 Wall Triana Hwy A102 256-464-3600 Sun - Sat 11am-9pm PIZZA HUT Family-friendly chain known for its made-toorder pizzas. 8830 Madison Boulevard 256-772-8897 7950 Hwy 72 W (256) 721-5640 Sun - Thurs 11am-11pm; Fri - Sat 11am-12pm PIPER & LEAF X STRONG STATION “This is a Family Run Tea Company” A4, 7504 Hwy 72 W 256-929-8887 Mon - Sat 9am-9pm; Closed Sunday RICK’S BBQ Regional BBQ restaurant. 7929 Highway 72 256-325-5907 Mon - Sat 10:30am-9pm; Closed Sun RITA’S ITALIAN ICE Italian ices & frozen custards star at this counterserve chain with a range of other cold treats. 8046 Highway 72 West 256-970-4848 Mon - Sat 11am-10pm; Sun 12pm-10pm ROCKET CITY CRAFT BEER Offers a rotating selection of craft beers on draft, as well as a huge selection of cans and bottles to take home. 1079 Balch Rd. Suite F 256-489-0807 Mon - Thurs 12pm-10pm; Fri - Sat 12pm-12am; Sun 12pm-8pm ROCKET REPUBLIC BREWING “One small sip for man, one giant taste for mankind.” 289 Production Avenue 256-325-4677 Sun - Thurs 3pm-9pm; Fri - Sat 3pm-12pm ROME2GREECE Freshly Made Mediterranean 1591 Hughes Road 256-325-0925 Tues - Sat 11am-9pm; Sun 11am-3pm; Closed Monday SAFFRON INDIAN RESTAURANT Laid-back, halal eatery offering North & South Indian staples, plus an all-you-can-eat lunch buffet. 12090 County Line Rd., Suite J 256-233-1085 Lunch: Tues - Fri 11am-2pm; Sat - Sun 11:30am-2:30pm; Dinner: Tues - Thurs 5pm-9pm, Fri - Sat 5pm-9:30pm, Sun 5pm-9pm; Closed Monday SAIGON VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT Saigon restaurant offers authentic Vietnamese Cuisine in the warm friendly atmosphere. 8760 Madison Boulevard (P&Q) 256-772-0202 Sun - Sat 11am-9pm SAKURA JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE Sakura japanese steakhouse & sushi bar, located in Madison, AL serves the highest quality in steaks, seafood, sushi and poultry. 12090-P County Line Road 256-233-6955 Lunch: Mon - Fri 11am-2pm; Dinner: Mon - Thurs 4:30pm-9:30pm, Fri 4:30pm-10pm; Sat 12pm-10pm; Sun 12pm-9:30pm
THE MADISON LIVING RESTAURANT GUIDE SAM & GREG’S PIZZERIA GELATERIA Relaxed, two-level eatery offering pies, sandwiches & other fare alongside Italian ice cream. 364 Hughes Road 256-772-9888 Mon - Thurs 11am-9pm; Fri - Sat 11-10; Sun 11-8 SCHLOTZSKY’S DELI A menu with something for everyone as long as they like sandwiches, soups, flatbreads, salads, macs, and more. 8969 Madison Boulevard 256-464-5300 Sun - Sat 10:30am-9pm SMASHBURGER Counter-serve chain featuring signature smashed burgers, plus sides & shakes. 8135 Highway 72 W, Suite C 256-726-0031 Sun - Thurs 11am-9pm; Fri - Sat 11am-10pm SMOKEY’S BBQ Counter-serve eatery offering generous BBQ plates & classic sides in a casual, woodsy setting. 8071 Highway 72 W 256-721-0300 Mon - Sat 11am-8pm; Sun 10:30am-3pm SONIC DRIVE IN Fast-food burger & fries joint with an old-school feel, including retro drive-in service. 3763 Sullivan Street 256-464-3138 Mon - Fri 6am-12am; Sat 7am-12am; Sun 8am-12am 11396 County Line Rd 256-777-6639 Mon - Sat 6am-12am; Sun 7am-12am 7871 Highway 72 W 256-895-0063 Mon - Sat 7am-12am; Sun 8am-12am STARBUCKS Seattle-based coffeehouse chain known for its signature roasts, light bites and WiFi availability. 7779 Highway 72 W 256-430-2393 Sun - Sat 5am-10pm STEAK OUT (HIGHWAY 72 W) Delivery-only chain offering grilled steak, chicken & shrimp plus sandwiches, salads & lunch deals. 7143-D Highway 72 W 256-721-1515 23-A Shelton Road 256-772-3030 Mon - Thurs 10:30am-10pm; Fri - Sat 10:30am-11pm STEVI B’S PIZZA BUFFET Festive, kid-centric chain offering build-your-own pizza, a buffet & a game room. 5510 Promenade Point Parkway NW 256-325-9009 Sun - Thurs 11am-9pm; Fri - Sat 11am-10pm SUBWAY Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options. 7950 Highway 72 W, Suite B256-430-3426 Sun - Sat 9am-10pm 347-B Hughes Road 256-461-1021 Mon - Fri 7am-10pm; Sat 8am-10pm; Sun 9am-10pm 10971 County Line Road, Suite A 256-461-4191 Mon - Fri 7am-9:30pm; Sat 8am-9:30pm; Sun 9am-9pm 25025 Chase Farm Boulevard 256-584-8100 Mon - Fri 7am-9:30pm; Sat 8am-9:30pm; Sun 9am-9pm
SUNNY STREET CAFE Casual regional chain serving hearty American fare for breakfast & lunch, with gluten-free options. 7143 Highway 72 W 256-213-7120 Sun - Sat 6:30am-2pm SWEET CHARLIE’S Gourmet rolled ice cream. 7626 Highway 72 W(256) 325-0616 Sun - Thurs 12pm-10pm; Fri - Sat 12pm-11pm TACO BELL Fast-food chain serving Mexican-inspired fare such as tacos, quesadillas & nachos. 7940 Highway 72 256-721-1312 Sun - Thurs 6:30am-2pm; Sat - Sun 6:30am-4am 8860 Madison Boulevard 256-772-8055 Sun - Thurs 7am-2am; Fri - Sat 7am-3am TAZIKI’S MEDITERRANEAN CAFE Comfy chain eatery providing made-to-order gyros & other Mediterranean dishes plus beer & wine. 105 Brookridge Drive 256-724-6554 Sun - Sat 10:30am-9pm TED’S BAR-B-Q Smoked All Night Bar B Q offered at three locations in North Alabama, Five Points, Madison Blvd. and University Drive. 8780 Madison Boulevard 256-772-6500 Mon - Sat 6:30am-8pm; Closed Sunday TENDERS Chicken tenders, smoked wings and fries have made this restaurant a local favorite. 101 Intercom Drive 256-464-7811 Mon - Thurs 10:30am-9pm THE DESSERT FORK The Dessert Fork is a dessert café that provides a variety of made-from-scratch desserts for your personal enjoyment. You can dine-in and enjoy our free Wi-Fi or take your confections to go. 107 Brookridge Drive Ste E2 256-970-4979 Mon - Sat 8am-7pm; Closed Sunday THE JUICERY Drink Healthy... Feel Awesome 7504 Hwy 72 W Unit A5 256-584-2348 Mon - Fri 7am-7:30pm; Sat 9:30am-7:30pm; Sun 9:30am-2:30pm THE STEM & STEIN Relaxed hangout featuring a sizable wine & craft beer selection, plus weekly tastings & live music. 10871 County Line Road, Suite B 256-325-3779 Mon - Thurs 3pm-10pm; Fri - Sat 3pm-11pm SHRIMP BASKET The Shrimp Basket is a family-friendly restaurant that offer locations in five states across the Southeast with a beach atmosphere and serves delicious seafood. 1079 Balch Road 256-970-4330 Mon - Fri 7am-8pm; Sat 8am-8pm; Sun 10am-8pm
TROPICAL SMOOTHIE CAFE Casual, health-conscious chain cafe featuring custom smoothies, sandwiches & wraps. 7814 Hwy 72 W 256-542-9700 Sun - Thurs 11am - 9pm; Fri - Sat 11am - 10pm UNCLE MADDIO’S PIZZA Customers can build their own pizzas & salads, assembly-line style, at this family-friendly chain. 8048 Highway 72 W. 256-430-2388 Sun - Thurs 11am-8pm; Fri - Sat 11am-9pm WAFFLE HOUSE Simple chain spot offering American diner fare & all-day breakfast, including signature waffles. 8979 Madison Boulevard 256-772-9540 1635 Hughes Road 256-890-1276 Open 24 hours! WENDY’S Fast-food burger chain serving sides such as chili & baked potatoes. 8814 Madison Boulevard W 256-772-0502 Sun - Thurs 10am-1pm; Fri - Sat 10am-2pm 7782 Highway 72 W 256-890-0310 Sun - Sat 10am-1pm 11300 County Line Rd 256-772-1345 Sun - Thurs 10am-10pm; Fri - Sat 10am-11pm WHICH WHICH? SUPERIOR SANDWICHES Which Wich® Superior Sandwiches serves custom-crafted sandwiches, wraps and salads with over 60 toppings to create a masterpiece. Get your wich on! 8064 Madison Pike 256-464-3628 Mon - Sat 6am-10pm; Sun 6am-9pm WINGS TO GO No-frills chain offering Buffalo wings with many different sauces, plus salads & sandwiches. 8572 Madison Boulevard, Suite U 256-461-0358 Mon - Thurs 10:30am-9:30pm; Fri - Sat 10:30am-10pm; Sun 11am-9:30pm ZAXBY’S Absolutely craveable, daringly zesty, made-toorder chicken fingers, wings and more. This is gonna be good. 100 Ivory Place 256-461-0026 8586 Hwy 72 W 256-722-5565 Sun - Sat 10:30am-10pm
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Why I Love Madison
Bob Hannah
B
Bob Hannah and his wife, Linda, have made Madison their home for more than 10 years. The couple has two children, Laurel, 18, and Grace, 16.
Where did you attend school? Belle Fourche High School, South Dakota, state champion in football West Point for Bachelor of Science Naval Post Graduate School for Master of Science What is your job title, and what does your work entail? I am a program integrator with KBRWyle. I work on the Arsenal with amazing teammates from across the country to design and deploy systems that will defend our warfighters from enemy threats.
What is your favorite place to visit in Madison? The AYSO soccer fields at Dublin and Palmer Park for practice and games. There is nothing better than playing soccer and investing in each child’s soccer skills, leadership and personal development. What is your favorite Madison restaurant, and what do you like about it? My favorite is Old Black Bear’s Taproom Burger with extra spicy verde salsa and a beer. Why do you love Madison? The genuine people who are focused on faith, family and service to our amazing community 50 Madison Living
1. Favorite hobby: Anything AYSO Soccer – coaching, refereeing, etc. I have coached hundreds of kids, with each reminding me how special every child is.
FAST FIVE
What made you choose your job? I wanted to be part of something special and continue to serve after my 24-year Army career. I love working with talented and committed folks who share the same passion to serve our troops and country.
2. Favorite food: In-N-Out burger, fries and a chocolate shake 3. Goal or ambition: Become a full-time soccer volunteer in the next few years and use the platform to mentor economically disadvantaged kids 4. Church: Asbury United Methodist Church 5. Something people might not know about me is: I started giving blood to get over my fear of needles. I’m just two pints short of giving 15 gallons for my career.
The moment your eyes meet. You and your baby’s bond is nine months in the making and we’re here for you every step of the way. See why more Moms deliver at our hospitals than any other hospital in Alabama. Visit oHHbaby.org to schedule a tour or to learn more about our dedicated maternity services.