Madison Living - September

Samantha Magnuson • Sand and serves • Melissa Gokee • chamber connections

MADISON Living September 2019 | $4.95 madisonlivingmagazine.com

Backyard barbecue The Ricky Shack elevates cookout to whole new level

Madison

Restaurant Guide A curated guide to Madison dining

Modern comfort Station at Town Madison provides new styles of living

MADISON Living Editorial Rebekah Martin Alison James John Few Contributors Gregg Parker Bob Labbe Robby Parker Joshua Berry Erin Coggins Lee Marshall Mayor Paul Finley Mary Lynne Wright Marketing Tori Waits Donna Counts 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 2019

by Madison Publications, LLC

4 Madison Living

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CONTRIBUTORS Rebekah Martin, managing editor

Rebekah Martin is a 2011 graduate of Faulkner University and an award-winning journalist. A Talladega native, Rebekah moved to North Alabama in 2017. She loves telling the stories of the people she meets and believes in the important role a local newspaper and magazine can play in a community. She’s also slightly obsessed with her cat Felecia and can make a reference to The Office from just about anything.

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 46 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 28 years on WLRH-FM Public Radio. He has also been a local high school basketball referee for 27 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.

Joshua Berry, photographer

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

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HOME & STYLE

25

12 Modern comfort

Station at Town Madison provides new styles of living

30

FOOD & DRINK 19 Backyard barbecue

The Ricky Shack elevates cookout to whole new level

SCHOOL & SPORTS 27 Sand and serves

Beach volleyball promises fun in the sun for DMS duo

ARTS & CULTURE

IN EVERY ISSUE: 7 The Guide 10 #MadisonLife 37 Out & About 40 Chamber Connections

30 Pretty as a picture

Artist Melissa Gokee stretches her hobby

Madison Living 5

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From the editor

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My team and I have a unique opportunity to meet and have conversations with a lot of interesting people in Madison, and I’m excited we get to share those stories with our readers. The pages you hold in your hands might feature the home of someone you know from church or a small business that’s run by someone your child went to high school with. This issue of Madison Living tells the stories of two beach volleyball players, a Madison artist and a backyard chef who specializes in pork tenderloin.

I could have visited with Richard and Gayle George for hours in their backyard paradise on Oak Brook Circle. The retired banker and his wife love BBQ and love entertaining even more. It was when I first saw the photos of the Ricky Shack in my inbox when I knew their story would make a perfect addition to Madison Living.

Samantha magnuSon • Sand and ServeS • meliSSa gokee • chamber connectionS

MADISON LIvINg September 2019 | $4.95 madisonlivingmagazine.com

Madison contributors Bob Labbe, Erin Coggins and John Few also bring stories of Madison people are involved in interesting hobbies, activities and sports.

With Town Madison changing the way people in Madison live, we thought our readers would enjoy an inside look into what The Station will look like. Turn to our Home & Style section to check it out.

Backyard BarBecue

If you know of an interesting story we can tell, my email “door” is always open.

the ricky shAck elevAtes cookout to whole new level

Madison

Thanks for reading,

restaurant Guide A curAted guide to MAdison dining

Modern coMfort stAtion At town MAdison provides new styles of living

rebekah.martin@madisonlivingmagazine.com

ON THE COVER Richard George is living his best life tantalizing the taste buds of friends and neighbors at his backyard paradise, The Ricky Shack.

Photo by Joshua Berry

6 Madison Living

the guide

September 17 Latin Dance Night Rocket City Brewing Company 6 p.m.

Rocket Republic Brewing Company will host a free salsa lesson at 6 p.m. followed by a social dance. The lesson will be taught by local dancers Marquiz Liner and Rachel Palazzo. No dance partners or experience are needed.

Madison Living 7

the guide

Weekly events in Madison

Breastfeeding Support Group Madison Hospital

Mondays at 10:30 a.m.

Thursdays at 6:30 p.m.

New moms dedicated to breastfeeding can join this weekly support group meeting that offers ongoing support from certified lactation consultants, solutions to common problems, weight checks with infant scales and more.

Madison City Chess League Madison Public Library

Mondays from 6:15-7:45 p.m.

Children in kindergarten through 12th grade who know how to play chess are welcome.

Madison Farmers Market

Trinity Baptist Church Saturdays from 8 a.m. until noon Every Saturday local farmers and artisans bring their fresh produce, meats, cheeses, coffee, flowers, herbs, eggs and handmade items to sell.

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Free GED classes Asbury Farmhouse Mondays and Wednesdays 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Classes include free childcare and a meal before each class.

Trivia Night Rocket Republic Brewing Company Wednesdays 6-8 p.m.

In cooperation with the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library, Rocket Republic Brewing Company hosts a weekly family-friendly trivia night. Food and drinks are available to purchase, but it’s free to play trivia, and all ages are welcome.

Thursday Madness Insanity Complex 8 p.m. until midnight Recurring monthly on the first Thursday.

the guide

Sept. 7

2 p.m.

Project time!

Grounded Coffee North Alabama Knitters and Crocheters will hold a project work session at Grounded Coffee. Knitters and crocheters are invited to bring a current project and enjoy an afternoon of stitching.

Sept. 15 8-11 a.m.

Apollo 11K

Madison Rotary Club The 11K will take place to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the historical space landing with the inaugural Apollo 11K, 5K and 1K races. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Madison Rotary Club.

Sept. 19 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Madison Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Luncheon Best Western Plus Madison/Huntsville

Sept. 5 6:30 p.m.

Free Newcomers Square Dance Party Madison Ballroom Dance Studio The North Alabama Square Dance Association will hold a free community square dancing event. No experience is required, and the class will serve as an introduction to beginner’s classes that will start the following week.

Sept. 25 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Reboot! Madison St. John the Baptist Catholic Church

Popular author, speaker and TV host Chris Stefanick will be speaking about ways to live the Gospel in everyday aspects of life. Tickets are $25 per person.

The Chamber will welcome guest speaker Robby Parker from Madison City Schools to speak about how Madison City Schools maintains favorable ratings. Cost is $25 for members and $30 for non-members.

Sept. 19 110:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

USA Patriots America’s Amputee softball team tournament Madison Academy

The USA Patriots America’s Amputee Softball Team will be back in the Rocket City Sept. 28 to play Team Redstone and Team Madison. First pitch will be at 10:30 a.m., and game two will begin at 12:30 p.m. Both games will be played at Madison Academy. There will be food options and entertainment between games. There is no admission fee to attend the games.

Sept. 28 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Art 4 Paws

Madison Public Library The Madison Arts Council, Madison Public Library and A New Leash on Life will be providing family activities and adoption events.

There will be food trucks, therapy partners, bouncy houses and children’s activities.

Madison Living 9

#MadisonLife Tag us or use #MadisonLife in your posts on Instagram, and we’ll choose our favorites to share in each issue.

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10 Madison Living

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myprogressbank.com Madison Living 11

home& style

Modern comfort Station at Town Madison provides new styles of living Written BY GREGG L. PARKER Photos CONTRIBUTED, TYNES DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION 12 Madison Living

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A new-to-the-community, comfortable lifestyle is on the scene with The Station at Town Madison, the first apartment neighborhood in the premier mixed-use development.

“The Station at Town Madison is an investment in the community that includes 274 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartment units,” explained D.A. Tynes, who is an interior designer for Tynes Development and Murphy-Tynes Interiors, as well as the wife of developer Ingram Tynes. “The development will be four stories with elevators and a few carriage homes with attached garages.”

Tynes said she believes The Station apartment brand has been so successful “because it is developed, designed and managed by owners with more than 30 years of experience. Individuals and young families recruited to Madison are looking to live in beautiful spaces that support their social lives, health and wellness.

“We manage our apartment homes with a small-business, personal feel.

We’ve developed and designed a lifestyle that allows individuals and families to feel immediately at home and seamlessly supported,” she added.

Madison Living 13

The Station’s one-bedroom units have 796 square feet. Two-bedroom units offer 1,160 square feet, while three-bedroom units have 1,300. Tynes said the design of all units includes efficient storage space.

“As a designer, I work with the resident in mind to create a beautiful space that makes them feel at peace,” Tynes said.

“If there is one corner I refuse to cut, it’s windows. They look into the soul of a development from the outside and provide the most important, free decoration there is – natural light.” Tynes said The Station at Town Madison has plenty of windows that she has carefully selected to give residents much-needed sunlight.”

The ceilings and walls’ smooth finishes create clean, modern lines. The living room, kitchen, bathrooms and commonspace areas feature dark hardwood floors.

“This trick-of-the-trade allows for easy, less frequent cleaning, as well as the look of a beautiful space,” Tynes said. Soft, neutral carpet in bedrooms supports each resident’s custom design.

The Station’s kitchen design is Tynes’ favorite feature in the units because it 14 Madison Living

“immediately invites residents into a place of serenity and modern living. The kitchens feature quartz countertops, subway tile backsplashes and plenty of cabinets that allow spacious counter space,” she said.

“In a Southern town like Madison, creating space in the kitchen to cook, socialize and stay a while is essential. I designed it knowing that when residents invite guests into their homes, their groups will inevitably gather in or near the kitchen.”

Madison’s modern feel inspired the design in The Station’s model apartment.

“In all of our model apartments, I carefully choose furniture that gives guests a sense of serenity and embellishes the clean, modern amenities of the home,” Tynes said. “It is important to me that community members immediately feel at ease and proud to call a place home, which is my ultimate goal in every apartment model.”

The Station supports community members both socially and physically by extending amenities outdoors. “Whether you, your family or your guests are in the mood to swim, socialize or grill out, there are multiple options to enjoy,” Tynes said.

Madison Living 15

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The resort-style pool offers in-water and out-of-water lounge areas, along with a grilling station and multiple fire pits. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our furry residents will also enjoy a pet park off leash, as well as plenty of greenspace and walkways throughout the property.â&#x20AC;?

Tynes said lush landscaping will give the apartments attractive aesthetics and a peaceful atmosphere. In autumn, maple trees will turn to tones of scarlet, yellow and gold to herald the season. Ash, bald cypress and elm will diversify the landscape.

The Station residents will view flowering shrubs, like abelia with tiny summertime blooms; camellias with surprising offseason blooms; loropetalum in whites and reds; miscanthus; and magnificent gardenias with intoxicatingly sweet aromas. Exotic grasses in varying hues will add interest to the grounds.

The Station at Town Madison will be zoned for Madison City Schools.

Prospective residents can contact Hallie Stone at 205-877-3199, extension 4; email leasing@stationtownmadison.com; or visit stationtownmadison.com.

Madison Living 17

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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.

Selling a home in this market is easy! It’s like falling off a log!

Everyone knows we are in a terrific real estate market for selling your home here in north Alabama! We have low interest rates, affordable housing, employment opportunities, and a tight inventory. However, even in this “sellers’ market,” you still need to heed sound principles concerning the selling of your home.

Here are two tips on how to do well in this market: TIP 1: Price the home in line with market values. A good Realtor can provide comparative data and coach you on a range of prices to consider. Do not let sentimental value or your emotions drive this consideration.

TIP 2: Prepare your home to “show.” This can involve decluttering, staging your home and excellent photographs. This might also involve doing repairs and/or making cost-efficient improvements to the home. We work with many sellers to give them advice on these topics and can even provide a list of vendors to make sure your home is well presented when placed on the market. It’s imperative to make your home look great!

Remember, just because we have a hot market, you cannot abandon proven principles of selling, or your house might be passed over. Rely upon our EXPERIENCE and PROVEN PERFORMANCE RECORD — call Rosenblum Realty today for a risk-free consultation on selling your home in this market!

Contact us at 256-539-9501 or at www.rosenblumrealty.com.

Let an agent from the Rosenblum Realty team provide you with one-to-one personal service – to find the “right home” for you!

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, Janhas 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.

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18 Madison Living

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food&drink

Backyard barbecue The Ricky Shack elevates cookout to whole new level Story by JOHN FEW PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOSHUA BERRY Madison Living 19

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One of the best barbecue joints in town isn’t a joint at all. It’s not even a restaurant. It’s a back yard.

More specifically, it’s a unique and charming, rustic outdoor cooking shed that would be the envy of any serious outdoor master chef. Dubbed the Ricky Shack, and built with reclaimed wood from several old barns, it is the pride and joy of Madison resident Richard George.

Entering the Ricky Shack is like opening a family photo album, only without the photos.

It’s filled with family memorabilia, each one with a story that draws one’s imagination into visualizing George’s family history. “Our collection consists of ice hooks like those used in my great grandfather’s ice plant, a fly rod and Stetson from my grandfather, hay hooks from my father’s farm and fishing equipment and duck decoys enjoyed by family members,” George said.

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Even the lights, made from antique Mason jars, have a special meaning: George’s wife Gayle’s maiden name is Mason. The jars are hung from an old Putnam telephone ladder originally designed for use in telecommunication switching stations. “I have a stone sink with running water from an old five gallon Igloo cooler to help with clean up,” George added.

What might be most memorable about the Ricky Shack, however, is the delicious aroma that fills the cooking shed George expertly prepares one of his mouth-watering creations. A former banker working in trust and investment management, he has found retirement gives him the chance to fully express himself in his passion for cooking on a Big Green Egg. “A client suggested I join the Kansas City Barbecue Society and the Alabama Barbecue Association to learn to judge barbecue. Thinking this would surely enhance taste buds and various cooking styles, I jumped right in,” George explained.

“My initial judging school at KCBS had

the five-time World Champion Memphis in May BBQ champion, Chris Lily, and Ken Hess of Big Bob Gibson’s BBQ as our cooks. Shortly thereafter, I completed the Que University BBQ Cooking School in Atlanta and continued to practice cooking and judging.”

Still dissatisfied, George began working to become a Master Judge. “To complete this qualification, one must cook with a professional team,” George said. “Jiggy Piggy of Decatur allowed me this honor.

Bob Fite and Steve Blake are truly champion cooks and gracious teachers.”

After judging 30 barbecue contests, cooking with a professional team and passing a final exam, George was awarded his Master Judge certification.

Judging has allowed George to learn from the best and add to his love of cooking for others. “My most-requested food for parties is smoked pork tenderloin, and I have cooked as many as forty tenderloins in one day,” George said. “The pork tenderloins are also a favorite for smaller Madison Living 21

parties, receptions and family gatherings.

Smoked salmon on a cedar plank or a filet mignon seems to be my family’s favorite.”

George’s personal favorite? “My preference is just a prime grade ribeye steak or beer-butt chicken,” he said. “I actually use an old Bundt cake pan filled with beer and veggies for the beer butt chicken.”

It was his love for entertaining and for tantalizing the taste buds of others that led George to dream up the Ricky Shack.

Cooking outside has its challenges with the weather in north Alabama, and an enclosed area on George’s deck in the backyard seemed to him to be the right answer.

Having a knack for interior decorating and design, Gayle helped design an area for him to practice cooking. His friend Tom added his own design touches to the mix and built the shed for him.

“We enjoy entertaining and relaxing outside,” George said. “A small area morphed into an enclosed shed, and the deck kept expanding. With reclaimed wood from several old barns in north

Let’s party!

Smokin’ @ the Ricky Shack with Richard George

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Many cooks have their own preference for harnessing fire. My favorite is a Big Green Egg – an outdoor ceramic cooker, capable of everything from low and slow smoking at 100-300 degrees to grilling at very high temperatures, 400-800 degrees.

Appetizer: chicken and pineapple bites Entrée: Henry’s Pork Tenderloin Ingredients: • 1 lb. thin-sliced bacon • 2-3 chicken breasts • pineapple – small can sliced or chunk • 2 pork tenderloins • 2 dozen dinner rolls • fresh mint • olive oil • yellow mustard • cracked black pepper • kosher salt • Tony Chachere’s Creole Seasoning • Everglades Seasoning or Emeril’s Original Rub • Big Green Egg Sweet Maple Rub or brown sugar • Stubbs or your favorite BBQ sauce Serves: 4 couples

22 Madison Living

Alabama and south Tennessee, many windows and pulleys and lots of hard work, the cooking and deck area was finally completed.” Two big Green Eggs, a handmade Ugly Drum Smoker and a gas smoker gave George the opportunity to practice his barbecuing skills. “My kids, grandkids and family seem to enjoy being my judges,” George said.

“My son David has followed in my footsteps, and he enjoys cooking on a Big Green Egg.” In fact, David and his wife Heather have the formed Cluck & Swine BBQ team to try competitive cooking. “They allowed me to help in a recent competition, and it was quite different to be on the other side of the judging table,” George said.

Speaking of tables, the payoff for George’s hard work comes at the end. That’s when he gets to see the smiles spread across the faces of anyone who has just sampled one of his delicious masterpieces.

Approximately 45 minutes before guests arrive, prepare charcoal fire for indirect heat, stabilize at 325-350 degrees and add cherry or pecan wood for additional flavor.

Lightly coat tenderloin with olive oil or yellow mustard and sprinkle with freshly cracked pepper – and, of course, kosher salt. If you like more heat or spice, add a dusting of Tony Chachere’s Creole Seasoning. Cover and refrigerate.

Cut bacon into thirds and cut chicken and pineapple into 1-inch cubes.

Sprinkle chicken with Everglades Seasoning and/or Emeril’s Original Rub. Sprinkle pineapple with Big Green Egg Sweet Maple Rub or brown sugar.

Wrap each seasoned chicken cube with bacon and secure with toothpick. Repeat same with seasoned pineapple cubes. If you prefer skewers, slide chicken cubes and pineapple cubes on separate skewers; they might have slightly different cooking times.

Approximately 15 minutes before guests arrive, place bites on grill and cook 15 minutes; flip and cook 15 more minutes.

Continue flipping until bacon is cooked to desired crispiness and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Drizzle with Stubbs or your favorite BBQ sauce, remove from fire and serve.

Richard and Gayle George

Leave the fire going! Remove tenderloins from the refrigerator. Have a friend act as bartender while you cook up the main course: • Mint Juleps Muddle 5-6 mint leaves in the bottom of a mint julep cup with one part (jigger) of simple syrup, then add two parts Woodford Reserve bourbon. Stir.

Pack tightly with crushed ice. Garnish with a sprig of mint. Some people like a splash of Sprite to slightly dilute this powerful drink.

• Old Fashioned Add 3-5 dashes of angostura bitters to a lowball glass. Peel a thin layer of orange skin, 1 inch by 3 inches, place peel side down in glass and muddle gently.

Add 1 teaspoon of simple syrup, a large ice cube, to delay dilution, and 2 oz. of Maker’s Mark or Bulleit Bourbon Whiskey. Stir.

• Single Malt Scotch Whisky.

Add a splash of water to Glenmorangie Original or Balvenie Double Wood.

Before the appetizers are gone, or you fix your second drink, don’t forget the pork tenderloins.

The fire should still be in the 325-350-degree range. Cook the tenderloin for 10 minutes, flip it and cook another 10 minutes.

Brush or drizzle with Blues Hog or Sweet Baby Ray BBQ Sauce and continue flipping until internal temperature reaches 145 degrees. Remove from heat and cover lightly with aluminum foil tent. Let rest for 10 minutes.

While the tenderloin is resting, throw sliced rolls on the grill for toasting.

Slice pork tenderloin pencil thin for sandwiches. Pepper jelly, tapenade, horseradish sauce or pear preserves complement the tenderloin well on a lightly toasted roll. Some folks just like mayonnaise and mustard.

Save the leftover tenderloin and rolls for breakfast the next day. Enjoy them cool or slightly warmed. The smoky and sweet flavor is wonderful.

Madison Living 23

EDUCATION

It’s our time to step forward

Robby Parker

Superintendent Madison City Schools

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Our schools need your help.

Please join me Sept. 10 to vote yes on a 12mil property tax to build new schools and equip them with the teachers, resources and security to be successful. Voting yes is an investment in your home values, in your community and, more importantly, in the children of today and tomorrow.

I don’t make this request lightly. Deep down, I feel it is what is best for the kids and the community as a whole.

The money is exclusively for Madison City Schools. It will pay for construction of a new elementary and middle school, expand the high schools, repurpose West Madison Elementary into a districtwide Pre-K Center, hire more SROs and help in operations and staffing.

Approval will add the equivalent of $120 annually – or $10 monthly – in property tax per $100,000 value of your personal home.

Schools districtwide are approaching 95 percent capacity. We are house poor and cannot build additional schools without a new revenue source I join a list of superintendents and boards that have been good financial stewards. Consider the return on investment.

We rank in the top five of school districts in Alabama by almost every measure, with most of our peer districts funded much better. This is how our school millage rates compare to other top performers: Mountain Brook, 52.9 mills; Madison City, 27; Homewood, 37.5; Hoover, 46.1; Vestavia Hills, 52.05.

A 2018 budget report shows MCS ranks 87th out of 138 school districts in per pupil expenditures: MCS $9,432, state average $9,894 per student.

Without a new revenue source to build new schools, we will have to take valuable resources from programs that make MCS one of the leading school districts

in Alabama and the nation. We’ll also be looking at extensive rezoning; earlier and later lunch periods; possible split sessions; using gyms, libraries and resource rooms as classrooms; and other drastic measures. The quality of our schools will decline without a new revenue source.

Excellent schools increase property values.

They make for better citizens and a strong economy. Almost any measure will show Madison City Schools as the driving factor that makes Madison such a desirable place to live.

The projects are part of my strategic plan to move Madison City Schools into the next era.

We have grown from 5,000 kids since our beginning in 1998 to almost 12,000 today.

More than 1,200 students have been added in the past four years, and growth could add 700 or more students this school year.

So you can see we are way bigger than where we started – but we are also way better.

We are better because of our amazing kids and supportive parents and PTAs; because of our outstanding teachers and principals; because of an incredible instruction team, dedicated counselors and CNP staffs and skilled custodians and bus drivers.

We are standing on the shoulders of people before us who had the courage to tax themselves to form our school district. Now it’s our time to step forward.

Through Nov. 21 (No event on Sept. 12)

Join Us! STEIN & DINE Mar. through Nov. Visit the U.S. Space & Rocket Center Saturn V Hall on Thursdays from 4:30 – 7:30 p.m., for the German Biergarten, featuring authentic German cuisine. Events run through November 21. (No Biergarten on Sept. 12.)

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 24 Madison Living

school& sports

Sand and serves

Beach volleyball promises fun in the sun for DMS duo Written BY BOB LABBE PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOSHUA BERRY Madison Living 25

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Playing in the sun and sand has a totally different meaning for Allie Avena and Kennedy Vaughn than for most 12-year-old girls. The two seventh-grade student-athletes at Discovery Middle School are die-hard beach volleyball players and have teamed up to be one of the nation’s top two-player teams. They recently played in the USA Volleyball Youth Beach National Championships in Manhattan Beach, Calif., near Los Angeles.

The two young athletes, who play for the Discovery Lions volleyball team, partnered to form their own two-person squad and were part of the United 121 Club. They won the BNQ Rally Regional Championships held in Atlanta last April and a second Rally in Atlanta later in the summer. The squad began by winning in the Huntsville Beach Tournament before heading to the Big Peach.

At the USA Volleyball Youth Beach National Championships, the team finished 17th out of 68 teams from across the country.

Both girls are in their second season of the sport noted for its play in sand, and both began the sport as a way to play volleyball year-round. Once they tried their volleyball skills in the sand, they were hooked. “I saw games on television and thought I’d like to try, so my mother signed me up after we visited the sand courts in Huntsville,” said the 5-foot-8-inch Vaughn.

For the 5-foot-6inch Avena, volleyball has been a passion since she began the indoor sport more than five years ago.

In 2018 she thought about the sand version of the sport and decided it give it a try. “I really thought it was a little challenging and saw the obstacles the sport presents, but I love challenges,” said Avena. “I face challenges. I battle them.”

The two friends hang out together away from the volleyball courts, too – going to movies, attending local hockey matches and having sleepovers. Each maintains her teammate is also her best friend. With smiles galore whenever they are together, it’s easy to see how the girls play well together as partners on the sand courts.

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“We have good communication, and we correct mistakes very quickly, which makes us much better than our competition,” Avena said. “We play against very elite opponents; I’m personally nervous but confident we can handle any adversities that are presented to us.”

Vaughn said she and her partner use a numbering system during their play, since many times they have their backs to one another during a match. “I know where (Avena) is at all times on the court. We keep each other motivated.”

In some ways Vaughn, whose second cousin is the nine-time gold medal Olympian athlete Carl Lewis, is lucky to be playing any sport. She and her twin brother Chandler were born with an eye disorder, which required two eye surgeries and wearing eye patches during recovery. She also had an ear surgery and hernia surgery all within four years of her birth. Her athletic endeavors started with soccer, but that didn’t click with the energetic and confident Vaughn.

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She next tried volleyball, in the second grade, and fell in love with the sport. “I love the hitting and serving of the ball. The game is very physical,” added Vaughn.

Both girls as sixth-graders were managers for the Discovery School team.

Now they play for the Lions using the skills they have honed in the sand version of the sport. As beach players, each was invited to attend the Girls Future Select Camps by USA Volleyball – known as pipelines to the Junior Olympics and possibly more.

“You get such an amazing feeling from winning,” said Avena. “To accomplish something where your hard work paid off is what’s it all about.”

Exactly how good is this team from Madison? One gauge to determine the answer to that question is the fact while in the qualification rounds in Atlanta, the girls moved up to the 14-year-old division.

The girls played in 90-degree weather conditions and won the division with a fantastic come-from-behind victory over the No. 1 seed from Cartersville, Ga. Each girl has the dream to win, play in the Olympics and play the sport they love together as best friends.

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Around Town

Community goes ‘Over the Edge’ for Kids to Love

Lee Marshall Founder / CEO Kids to Love

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The Kids to Love team has had a lot of fun promoting our Over the Edge event this year. One hundred “Edgers” will rappel 160 feet from the Regions building in downtown Huntsville later this month. It’s our most adventurous fundraiser to date!

This year we’ve added a twist for the “chickens” who are afraid to rappel. They can raise money and go “Into the Coop.”

There have been golden tickets and a golden egg, and we think the event itself is golden.

The purpose behind this event is also related to fear because that’s the reality

Mayor Paul Finley rappels over the side of the Regions building in downtown Huntsville during the Over the Edge event last year.

of living in foster care. Foster care is the equivalent of a war zone for the children we serve. Foster children experience PTSD at almost two times the rate of returning veterans, according to Harvard Medical Schools, the University of Michigan and Casey Family Programs.

The nerves our Edgers overcome to rappel is no match for the anxiety foster children live with every single day.

It’s not too late for you to get involved with Over the Edge. If you visit our website at www.kidstolove.org, you will find dozens of personal stories from our

Edgers sharing why they are facing their fears or embracing the thrill of going Over the Edge. I invite you to scroll that list, find an Edger to support and give generously, keeping in mind your donation benefits the children we serve.

Then the fun begins! Join us Sept. 20 as our VIPs go Over the Edge, and come out again Sept. 21 to cheer on your favorite Edgers.

In addition to our website, you can follow us on social media to keep up with the excitement and fun surrounding this great cause. See you Over the Edge!

Madison Living 29

arts&culture

Pretty as a picture Artist Melissa Gokee stretches her hobby Written BY ERIN COGGINS PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOSHUA BERRY 30 Madison Living

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Painting is something Melissa Gokee uses as a way to relax, an indulgence of something she introduced to herself as a child, a way to enjoy art for art’s sake – that is, until her friend Karynthia Birmingham, owner of The Juicery Press in Madison, asked her to share her art with the business’ customers.

“Karynthia came to me, needing artwork to hang on the walls and the chance to sell some of my paintings. Of course, I was not sure if anyone would even want to see my art, but I said sure, why not,” Gokee said.

“It was difficult to put my work out there.”

Gokee sold her first painting – and then a second. “It was an amazing feeling to sell the first painting,” Gokee said. “Someone really liked what I painted, other than my family; they like my art, but then, they love me. To have someone outside the family wanting a painting was really cool.”

Although Gokee took some art classes in college, she comes by her talent naturally.

Her father creates carvings and sculptures from found objects, and her aunt is an oil painting artist. “Painting has always been something I have done with my aunt. We even attended painting classes together,” Gokee said. “And my grandmother and I would go to the museum to see the new shows.”

Florals and landscapes are Gokee’s subjects of choice. One of her favorite paintings, which hangs above her bed, depicts the light of a sunrise through the trees. Gokee said she mainly uses her imagination for inspiration, but she can also get lost in books of paintings.

“I love the classic artists Monet and Renoir,” Gokee said. “I could spend hours looking at their work because I just love their stuff. I also get some of my ideas from Pinterest and other current artists.”

Madison Living 31

Gokee has also found a passion for abstract paintings. In fact, the first painting she sold from her display at the Juicery Press was an abstract. She said abstract paintings allow her to let loose because the only thing an artist is truly in control of with an abstract piece is the colors used.

“You have an idea of what you want the abstract work to look like, but as it dries, it turns into something a little different,” she said. “When I’m painting florals, I go over and over it until I’m satisfied, sometimes putting 10 layers of paint on one little flower. Abstract is more messy and allows me to just let go.”

Gokee has also perfected a unique technique called cross-stich paintings. She divides her canvas into one-inch squares, paints the background a neutral color and paints the familiar cross-stich X in various locations to create the image, usually a flower. “Cross-stitching was a childhood hobby. If I was bored, I cross-stitched. If we were on our way to the beach, I would cross-stitch,” Gokee said. “So with this technique, I get to translate this hobby into another, bringing it all together.”

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Although art is just a hobby for Gokee, she does combine it with her day job every now and then. As a third-grade teacher at Harvest Elementary, Gokee said she finds ways to get art into the curriculum at least once a week, including using tessellations as a way to study math. “If we have any down time – such as P.E. is canceled or we have to stay in for recess one day – I use the Art For Kids Hub on YouTube for the students to complete a project,” Gokee said. “They always love it and are learning without knowing they are.”

Since her debut at The Juicery Press, Gokee has displayed her art at Uncorked in Providence and will rotate back to the Juicery Press every other month. She also posts her paintings on Instagram @melissa_gokee-art. Although she does not want to become an artist full time, she said she is glad she took her friend’s advice and shared her work with others.

“It is difficult to paint when someone specifically requests something,” Gokee said. “I would much rather put it out there and let people choose.”

Madison Living 33

Madison Hospital

ER excellence brings peace of mind

A Mary Lynne Wright President, Madison Hospital

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As parents or grandparents, we’ve likely experienced taking our little ones to be treated for a reaction to a bee sting, a cut on the cheek or a sudden high fever. Knowing that Madison Hospital’s Emergency Department is here for these urgent pediatric needs brings peace of mind to Madison families.

Our caring staff is available around the clock and includes emergency medical physicians and other capable medical professionals who have

access to state-of-the art technology and lab services.

With the recent space conversion for a FastTrack – to treat urgent needs that don’t rise to the level of life-or-death emergencies – our staff will give your little ones the care they need and a fun sticker for the ride back home. We will treat your family like our own family.

Be sure to check out the Nelson family and Dr. Jeff Johnson’s picture on the back cover of this issue.

FROM THE OFFICE OF THE MAYOR

Enhance your outdoor experience

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Paul Finley Mayor City of Madison

Our City of Madison mission statement is to provide excellent services through responsible use of public resources, enhancing the quality of life for our community. While continued improvement of our road network, community safety and support for our incredible Madison City Schools lead the list, another key element of a strong community is recreation and access to outdoor activities. This month I wanted to deliver an update regarding four recreation/ leisure projects the council has funded that are underway and adding to our robust and active city culture.

At Dublin Park we are adding walkways for safer connectivity and expanding and paving a parking lot near the upper soccer fields. This will provide better access and an improved area for families to safely navigate through the park.

Another addition, security cameras are being strategically placed throughout the park.

At Palmer Park we have completed the dirt work and are now ready to bid out the remaining portion of our Phase 1 upgrade. This upgrade will add three new lighted regulation fields, additional parking, two dog parks and a new concessions facility. Palmer has served our community for many years; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to put some TLC back into this park.

Our Bradford Creek Greenway is getting a muchneeded addition at its intersection at Mill Road. A new parking lot, bathroom station and bridge from the parking lot to the greenway are under construction, with a late fall completion date.

Lastly, our Mill Creek Greenway recently received a grant to extend north from Browns Ferry along the tributary, ending at the intersection of Foxfield and Oakstone. Bids will go out soon, and future plans will eventually extend the greenway all the way to the Park Meadow park.

As Madison grows, so must our recreational facilities.

Please visit our website at www.madisonal.gov to keep updated on our progress.

Madison Living 35

ymca

Feel at home with YMCA Welcoming Day

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At some time in their lives, everyone has felt like an outsider. At the Y, we believe when everyone feels valued and can fully participate in society, communities benefit. The Hogan YMCA, along with the rest of Heart of the Valley YMCA, will host Welcoming Week Sept. 13-22, celebrating newcomers with free multicultural activities that are open to the public.

Members and guests are invited to place a sticker on a world map at the Y to show where they were born. They can also post a greeting in their native language on a welcome board.

YMCA branches will host Welcoming Day Sept. 14, opening the doors for free admission from noon to 6 p.m. Membership is not required to enjoy classes, swimming pools, fitness centers and gyms at all three locations in Huntsville and Madison.

The Hogan Y will host an International Food Fair and Recipe Swap Sept. 21 from 6-8 p.m. Members and guests are invited to bring samples of family recipes or ethnic dishes to share. Please list all ingredients in the samples so those with food allergies can sample safely. Contact amanda. talley@ymcahuntsville.org for more information.

“Welcoming Week is an opportunity for neighbors to connect,” said Jerry Courtney, YMCA president. “At Heart of the Valley YMCA, we are inclusive and celebrate diversity. We believe our community is stronger when everyone in the community feels welcome and we can all work together for the common good.”

The YMCA has a long history of helping new Americans integrate into new neighborhoods and preparing communities receiving them to be inclusive. In 1856 the Y was the first organization in the U.S. to offer

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English as a Second Language classes.

In the late 1800s YMCA immigration secretaries greeted hundreds of thousands of new arrivals at Ellis Island and Angel Island, helping them locate family members, housing and employment.

The Y continues its mission to offer Y programs and services – as well as a place where all can feel welcome – to everyone regardless of their ability to pay. Visit ymcahuntsville.org/welcome to learn more.

out & about

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Business Expo The Business Expo and Kids Day by the Madison Chamber of Commerce was held July 27 at the Hogan Family YMCA, 130 Park Square Lane in Madison. It helped celebrate the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 150th anniversary.

The Business Expo & Kids Day is the Madison chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature event.

Photos BY JOHN FEW 1.

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Rebecca Patton Jasmine Shy, Mike McKeon and Ashley Ware Kelly Christy, Lanie Worshek and Charlie Roberts Josh, Michelle, Carlie and Jackson Spiegel Larry and Deborah Ward and Jackie McCall Steven Conway Tracy Odum and Kristan Anderson Tiffany Pugh, Vanesa Randall, Gosia Sullivan and Staisha Jennings 9. Erick Miller, Jensie Britt and Keiandra King-Britt 10. Tori Waits

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Madison Living 37

Popsicle day

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During the final two weeks of July and first of August, the James Clemens High School Marching Band was busy practicing in the hot sun. They stopped briefly for what has become an annual tradition â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Popsicle day.

The cool, delicious treat was offered to every band member to reward them for their hard work.

Photos BY JOHN FEW 1. Lauren Rogers and A.J. Fredette-Straley 2. Katelynn Tucker, Morgan Lockhart, Jason Pollard, Eli Stewart and Scout Stewart 3. Graysen Furber, Connor Douglas and Aiyana Milligan 4. Lindsey Tucker and Katelynn Tucker

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5. Avery Williams and Jake Williams 6. Jason Pollard, Patrick Byrne and Daniel Moore 7. Claire Horton, Grace Cardinale, Bella Welch and Caroline Patterson

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Madison City Farmers Market

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Community members flocked to the Madison City Farmers Market Aug. 3, as they have each Saturday this season. Madison City Farmers Market is Madisonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s original local, produceronly farmers market, founded in 2007 and open from 8 a.m. to noon every Saturday beside Trinity Baptist Church, 1088 Hughes Road. Everything sold at the market is grown or crafted by local farmers and craftspeople.

Photos BY JOHN FEW

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1. Erica Campbell, Michelle Byrd and Dan Parrott 2. Bob Kircus 3. Suzanne and Alison Byrd 4. Todd Rowland 5. Karen, James and John Palmer 6. Phil Draper 7. Tyson and Elsie Saller 8. Curtis, Candice, Caitlyn and Callie Gilchrist

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Madison Living 39

Madison Chamber of Commerce connections

Let’s Tee Up some business success!

Join us for the Madison Chamber’s Tee Up Fore Business Golf Tournament, taking place at Sunset Landing Golf Course Sept. 20.

This event provides an excellent opportunity for participants to network in an open, entertaining setting. Teams will play 18 holes in a fourperson scramble with an 8 a.m. shotgun start.

Soft Opening and Ribbon Cutting for MCC Member Virtuous Realty Group.

There will be Hole-in-One prizes as well as all your favorite contests. Cash prizes will be awarded for first-place, second-place and last-place teams, with raffle prizes rounding out the fun.

Grab your teammates and come on out for a fun day of networking and relaxed competition.

Sponsorships are available in a wide variety of price ranges, enabling any sized company to promote their business and gain valuable exposure to local business professionals.

To learn more about sponsorships or to register a team, visit www.madisonalchamber.com or contact our office at 256-325-8317. You do not need to be a Madison Chamber member to participate in this event.

Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting for MCC Member Home 2 Suites-Madison.

Life insurance is for those you leave behind

The Madison Chamber of Commerce is located at 103 Spenryn Drive, Madison. Stop by anytime!

September is Life Insurance Awareness Month. Let’s get together to

 sure you have a plan for today, and for tomorrow. make

Business After Hours hosted by MCC Member IBERIABANK.

Mark Berryman LUTCF Mark Berryman LUTCF Financial Representative Financial Representative 1874 Slaughter Road Suite R 1874 Slaughter Madison, AL 35758 Road Suite R Madison, AL. 35758 www.countryfinancial.com/mark.berryman (256) 325-1242 mark.berryman@countryfinancial.com www.countryfinancial.com/mark.berryman (256)325-1242

surance is for those ave behind

Life insurance is for those you leave behind Let’s get together to make sure you have a plan for today, and for tomorrow.

Auto, home home and insurance policies issued

by COUNTRY Mutual Mutual Insurance Company Company, , COUNTRY COUNTRY Preferred Insurance Company andCompany COUNTRYand Casualty Insurance Company . Life insurance Auto, andbusiness business insurance policies issued

by COUNTRY Insurance Preferred Insurance COUNTRY Casualty Insurance Company. Life Insurance policies policies issued by COUNTRY Life Insurance Company® and COUNTRY Investors Life Assurance Company®, Bloomington, IL. issued by COUNTRY Life Insurance Company and COUNTRY Investors Life Assurance Company, Bloomington, IL 0415-556HC-19170®

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nsurance Awareness Month. Let’s get together to 103and Spenryn Dr., Madison, AL 35758 e a plan for today, for tomorrow.

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k Berryman LUTCF

MADISON, ALABAMA 35758

Madison Chamber of Commerce connections

Anaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Salon and Spa showcases products and services.

Chicken Capers Chicken Drop re-enactment honors Madisonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sesquicentennial Celebration.

Food trucks delight the crowd at the Business Expo and Kids Day.

The Blackwell Team Realty Group wins first-place booth at the Business Expo and Kids Day.

256-325-8317

Dr. Osborne makes amazing balloon art.

Mathnasium wins third place booth at Business Expo.

Madison Fire and Rescue firefigher Stephen Long takes his turn in the dunking booth.

Madison Fire and Rescue Virtual Reality demo.

South & Pine Home wins second place booth at Business Expo.

www.madisonalchamber.com

Madison Living 41

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 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 5:30am2am; Sun 6am-12am Captain D’s Seafood Kitchen Fast, casual seafood restaurant chain serving fish & seafood dishes, plus sides & desserts.

9088 Madison Boulevard 256-461-0397 Sun - Thurs 10:30am-10pm; Fri - Sat 10:3011pm 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 groupfriendly 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 7am-10am; 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 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 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 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 Living 43

THE MADISON LIVING RESTAURANT GUIDE 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 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

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Old Black Bear Brewing Company Brewing is our life, beer is our water so don’t waste time drinking other things.

212 Main Street 256-850-4639 Mon - 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 20 256-351-1800 Sun - 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 counter-serve 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 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

THE MADISON LIVING RESTAURANT GUIDE 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 B 256-430-3426 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 Tropical Smoothie Cafe Casual, health-conscious chain cafe featuring custom smoothies, sandwiches & wraps.

1079 Balch Road 256-970-4330 Mon - Fri 7am-8pm; Sat 8am-8pm; Sun 10am-8pm Uncle Maddio’s Pizza Customers can build their own pizzas & salads, assembly-line style, at this familyfriendly 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 Road 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 Wish You Were Beer “Beer Don’t Drink Itself” 7407 Hwy 72 W. 256-325-9992 Mon - Thurs 2pm-10pm; Fri - Sat 12pm-12am; Closed Sunday Zaxby’s Absolutely craveable, daringly zesty, made-to-order 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 Zion Gourmet Popcorn Zion Gourmet Popcorn is a gourmet popcorn business. We sell popcorn, fudge, chocolate candy, candy apple and caramel apples.

104 Main Street 256-631-5982 Mon - Fri & Sunday 10am-6pm

Madison Living 45

Why I love Madison

S

Samantha Magnuson

Samantha Magnuson is a graduate of Bob Jones High School and has lived in Madison since the early 2000s. She works for the City of Madison as the communications specialist.

She and her husband Bob met while they were lifeguards at Redstone Arsenal and students at the University of Alabama. They have one daughter, Molly, who is 4 years old. Samantha said her biggest accomplishment will always be her creative, funny and strong-willed daughter.

How long have you lived in Madison?

I grew up as a military brat, but my family settled in Madison in ’03. I have considered Madison my home for the majority of my life. After living and working post-graduate in Tuscaloosa, we decided to settle in Madison again when we had our daughter. My husband also grew up in Madison as well, and we both recognized the quality education we received from this school system.

What does your work as the city’s communications specialist entail?

Depending on the day, my to-do list changes. I manage website updates, create digital content, videos and graphics, coordinate with local news media and fulfill “other duties as assigned.”

Why do you love Madison?

Madison is home. I love that we have family nearby and that while the city develops it still puts family priorities first. Madison is perfectly placed to have the small-town charm with just a quick drive to large cities like Nashville or Birmingham. I’ve lived and experienced most regions in the continental U.S. while growing up, and there’s just something about living in the South that gives you a warm feeling – and I’m not meaning the weather!

1. Favorite hobby: Being outside – hiking, walking our dogs, gardening, etc.

Fast Five

What do you enjoy about your job?

I began my career in news at WHNT, first as a producer, and then I went into the creative department filming and producing commercials and station promotions. I loved my time there, but when an opportunity to work for the city I live in and love crossed my path, I couldn’t pass it up City benefits and pension, plus positive leadership, have made this career one in which I want to plant roots. This job is meaningful to me because I get to be very engaged in all things happening in our area. It has been wonderful to see Madison grow and change over the years, and with this job I get a front row seat to all the action!

What is your favorite Madison restaurant, and what do you like about it?

Hands down, La Placita. The staff is so friendly; they truly care about their customers, and the food is delicious! If you can handle some heat, ask for their spicy salsa – you won’t be disappointed!

What is your favorite place to visit in Madison?

Two places: the Madison Public Library and Bob Jones High School. My daughter loves everything about the library, especially the annual fairy tale night. She lights up every time we visit, and that warms my heart. I don’t visit BJHS much, but we do come for all the musicals. I had the opportunity to film our SROs not long ago and took a short tour of the school. It was great nostalgia walking those halls!

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2. Favorite food: Mexican 3. Goal or ambition: To get through each day with a smile 4. Church: We frequently go with my inlaws in Rogersville 5. Something people might not know about me is: I film weddings on the side.

I love all the romance, details and glamor of weddings!

TIME TO

EXPLORE LET’S GO!

AWESOME EXPLORATION IN PROGRESS!

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