MADISON LIVING THE GUIDE • AROUND TOWN • CHAMBER CONNECTIONS • OUT & ABOUT • SCHOOLS
May 2022 madisonlivingmagazine.com
TWIN JETS
Twin sisters Elizabeth and Emma Brooks are
two of James Clemens’ softball powerhouses as they celebrate their senior year
Madison Living 1
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Madison Living 3
Alison James John Few
MADISON CONTRIBUTORS MADISON Gregg Parker LIVING LIVING Bob Labbe
EDITORIAL Richard George EDITOR Rebekah Martin Joshua Berry JohnJames Few Alison Erin Coggins John Few Lee Marshall CONTRIBUTORS Mayor Paul Finley Bob Labbe CONTRIBUTORS MaryGregg LynneParker Wright Parker MaryGregg Anne Swanstrom Erin Coggins Bob Labbe Joshua Berry Richard George William Aycock MARKETING Joshua Berry Lee Marshall Donna Counts Erin Coggins John Peck Lee Marshall Mary Lynne Wright ADMINISTRATIVE Mayor Paul Finley Richard George Sierra Jackson Mayor PaulWright Finley Mary Lynne French Salter Mary Anne Swanstrom MARKETING ••• Donna Counts MARKETING
CONTACT US Donna Counts
GENERAL MANAGER Madison Publications, LLC 7734 Madison Suite 115 FrenchBlvd. Salter
ADMINISTRATIVE Huntsville, AL 35806 Sierra256-772-6677 Jackson Phone: Fax: 256-772-6655 French Salter CONTACT US
madisonlivingmagazine.com Madison••• Living Magazine Madison Living The Madison Record is published monthly 7734 Madison Blvd. Suite CONTACT US 115 by Madison Publications, LLC. Huntsville, AL 35806 A one-year subscription to Madison Publications, LLC Phone: 256-772-6677 Madison Living 7734 Madison Blvd. Suite 115 Fax: 256-772-6655 is $24.99 for 12AL issues per year. Huntsville, 35806 madisonlivingmagazine.com Single copies are available at Phone: 256-772-6677 select locations throughout Fax:Madison 256-772-6655 Living the Madison area. madisonlivingmagazine.com is published monthly by To advertise or to get Tennessee Valley Media, Inc. Madison Living more copies, A one-year subscription is published monthly to call 256-772-6677. Madison Living is $27.99 by Madison Publications, LLC. for 12 issues per year. A one-year subscription to Copyright 2020 Single copies Madison Livingare by Madison Publications, LLC available at select is $24.99 for 12 issues per year. locations throughout Single copies are available at 4 select Madison Livingthroughout the Madison area. locations the Madison area. To advertise advertiseorortoto To getget more copies, more copies, call256-772-6677. 256-772-6677. call Copyright 2022 by Copyright 2020 Tennessee Valley Media, Inc. by Madison Publications, LLC 4 Madison Living
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and Dadeville, followed by a stop in Opelika before landing in north Alabama. She loves sharing the stories – and correcting the grammar of those stories – of the people and places that make north Alabama such a special place.
...
CONTRIBUTORS John Few, Editor Alison James, copy editor
John Few hasearned been in thebachelor’s field of newspaper journalism at and production for over 25 Alison James her degree in journalism Auburn University, years. Johninhas served staffher writer, editor and publisher for a variety of publications graduating 2012. She as began career in community journalism in Alexander City in Alabama and Mississippi. He was transferred 2009 toinbegin coverage of loves and Dadeville, followed by a stop in Opelika beforeinlanding northhis Alabama. She Madison. covering thecorrecting City of Madison the past 10 years, John onplaces sharing theIn stories – and the grammar of those stories – ofhas the reported people and several key events, such as construction of the Hogan Family YMCA and James that make north Alabama such a special place. Clemens High School. Over the years, as Madison has grown, John has been there to cover the news that has made Madison home. Together John and his wife, Lori, have seven children, ranging from 15-23 years old.
John Few, contributing writer Bob Labbe, contributing writer
Bob Labbe is abeen lifelong resident the Huntsville community. He has beenfor innearly the local John Few has in the field ofofnewspaper journalism and production 25 news media for served 48 years, journalistTimes, in television, radio and print years. John has as a multi-award-winning staff writer for The Demopolis the daily newspaper media. is a member of thefor Huntsville-Madison County HallGazette. of FameHe and has in West He Alabama, and editor the weekly newspaper theAthletic Black Belt was been nominated for to both the his Alabama Press Association Alabama of transferred in 2009 begin coverage of Madison. Inand covering the Music City ofhalls Madison fame. Bob hosted radio program, The Years,such for 29 on WLRH-FM the past 10 has years, Johna has reported onReelin’ severalinkey events, asyears construction of the Public Family Radio. He has also a local highHigh school basketball for 28 years andhas was Hogan YMCA and been James Clemens School. Overreferee the years, as Madison a high school football 15 years. Bob is anhas avidmade sportsMadison fan and home. collector of 45 grown, John has been referee there tofor cover the news that Together rpm records. He once boxed Ali and was from the reporter who asked John and his wife, Lori, haveMuhammad seven children, ranging 15-23 years old. the famed Paul Bear Bryant his last question as coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide.
Gregg Parker, contributing writer Bob Labbe, contributing writer
A graduate Mississippi State Gregg Parker relocated to Madison with Bob Labbe isof a lifelong resident ofUniversity, the Huntsville community. He has been in the local Intergraph Corporation 1990 with wife Brenda and son For radio 15 years news media for 48 years, ainmulti-award-winning journalist in Andy. television, andGregg print wrote for Spirit” “Limestone Spirit” sections in “The Times.” media. He “Madison is a member of theand Huntsville-Madison County Athletic HallHuntsville of Fame and has His articles havefor been in numerous chamber of Alabama commerce publications, been nominated bothpublished the Alabama Press Association and Music halls of “Southern Family Magazine” and “Life on the Gregg considers a privilege to fame. Bob has hosted a radio program, Reelin’ inWater.” The Years, for 29 years onitWLRH-FM document Madison’s coming age high in hisschool hundreds of articles forfor “The Madison Public Radio. He has also been aoflocal basketball referee 28 years and was andfootball “Madison Living” magazine. Gregg spoiling his collector rescue dachshund, aRecord” high school referee for 15 years. Bob is an enjoys avid sports fan and of 45 rpm Francis He Underwood Parker; binge-watching Netfl series;and andwife records. once boxed Muhammad Ali and was theix reporter whovisiting asked Andy the famed Paul Saadia, bothhis physicians, in Nashville, Bear Bryant last question as coach ofTenn. the Alabama Crimson Tide.
Erin Coggins, Gregg Parker, contributing contributing writer
AErin graduate of is Mississippi University, Gregg Madison High with Coggins a scholasticState journalism adviser andParker historyrelocated teacher attoSparkman Intergraph in 1990 withand wifepublic Brenda and son Andy. ForHer 15 years Gregg School. SheCorporation is also a freelance writer relations consultant. writing muse is wrote “Madison Spirit” and “Limestone “The Huntsville Times.” Worldfor War II war correspondent Ernie Pyle,Spirit” whom sections she fell ininlove with while a student His articles have been published in numerous chamberErin of commerce publications, studying communications at the University of Alabama. and her husband Jamie “Southern Family Magazine” and “Life on the Water.” Gregg considers it a privilege reside in Madison. to document Madison’s coming of age in his hundreds of articles for “The Madison Record” and “Madison Living” magazine. Gregg enjoys spoiling his rescue dachshund, Francis Underwood Parker; binge-watching Netflix series; and visiting Andy and wife Saadia, both physicians, in Nashville, Tenn.
Erin Coggins, writer Joshua Berry, contributing photographer
Erin Coggins a scholastic journalism adviser and teacher at Sparkman High Joshua Berryishas a degree in biology and works fullhistory time as an aquatic instructor for the School. She is also aHe freelance writer public relations consultant. Herdistances. writing muse is City of Huntsville. is also an avidand runner, ranging from short to long When World War II war correspondent Ernie Pyle, whom he sheenjoys fell in trying love with while a the student he’s not spending time with his wife and daughter, to capture perfect studying theowner University of Alabama. Erin andhis heradvice husband Jamie momentcommunications on his camera. Asatthe of Everlong Photography, for beautiful reside in Madison. pictures is that nothing looks better than being confi dent in oneself.
Joshua Berry, photographer Joshua Berry has a degree in biology and works full time as an aquatic instructor for the City of Huntsville. He is also an avid runner, ranging from short to long distances. When he’s not spending time with his wife and daughter, he enjoys trying to capture the perfect moment on his camera. As the owner of Everlong Photography, his advice for beautiful pictures is that nothing looks better than being confident in oneself.
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Madison Living 5
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35 EVENTS
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35 TWIN JETS Twin sisters Elizabeth and Emma Brooks are two of James Clemens’ softball powerhouses as they celebrate their senior year
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Huntsville’s Orion Amphitheater will open May 2022 with an epic weekend-long event, aptly named The First Waltz. The highly anticipated attraction in the MidCity District will wrap up construction in time to host its first concert on May 7. “This venue will be a significant new addition for the people in and around Huntsville as it serves as a beacon of the community,” said Ben Lovett, Venue Group CEO. “It will also stand tall amongst the live performance community as one of the best venues in the World.” The outdoor space will hold 8,000 people and will be used year-round for both concerts and community events. They have plans to include farmer’s markets, art displays, theater performances, and meeting spaces for large scale gatherings. They will have different themed food and drink areas to satisfy everyone from wine and whiskey drinkers to beer and hard seltzer connoisseurs. The area outside of the venue will be known as Apollo Park. This public park will be open year-round for people to exercise and roam freely. Only when there are specific ticketed events will the entire campus be enclosed - otherwise patrons are encouraged to utilize the grounds for their enjoyment throughout the year. Along with building the venue with both performers and attendees in mind, they have also made sure to keep Orion Amphitheater accessible. From their Accessibility Page, they are able to provide seating, parking, sign-language interpreters, listening
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THE GUIDE
Children born into all kinds of circumstances have dreams and dreams are powerful. Construction nears completion in this April photo by sellersphoto.com.
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THE GUIDE
Big Ol’ Ballpark Fair • May 12-22 • Toyota Field in Madison • www.trashpandasbaseball.com
The second annual Big Ol’ Ballpark Fair returns to Toyota Field from Thursday, May 12 through Sunday, May 22. Similar to 2021, the Big Ol’ Ballpark Fair will feature rides, games, as well as food and drink options for the entire family. For the opening of the fair on May 12 at 4 p.m., rides are free for all guests. A special Aquatic Acrobat Show will take place daily on weekdays at 6 and 8 p.m. and on Saturdays and Sundays at 4, 6, and 8 p.m. Sea Lions will be on display on weekdays at 4 and 6 p.m. and on Saturdays and Sundays at 4, 6, and 8 p.m. Additionally, a new Barnyard Show called Cowtown will be on display where guests can milk a cow, ride a pony, and feed animals. Go to www.trashpandasbaseball.com for ticket information.
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3rd Thursdays on Main - May 19 • Downtown Madison The Shoppes of Downtown Madison is planning their first annual 3rd Thursdays on Main! Event is from 6-8 pm. They have four planned for May-August, and will have have popup vendors, food trucks and extended hours for downtown businesses.
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THE GUIDE
Madison City Farmers Market • Open Saturdays 8 a.m. - noon • Trinity Baptist Church in Madison Located at 1088 Hughes Road at Trinity Baptist Church in Madison, the market is the area’s original local, producer-only farmers market, founded in 2007. Everything sold at the market is grown or crafted by local farmers and craftspeople. The vendors provide a wide selection of the freshest local veggies, fruits, cheese, eggs, meats, milk, herbs, honey, jams, relishes, home-baked goods, plants and flowers. Come see creations from local artisans including handmade cards, soaps, lotions, candles, wood crafts, sewn items and other handmade products. Go to www.madisoncityfarmersmarket.com for more information.
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THE GUIDE
2022 City Lights and Start Concert Series • Burritt on the Mountain • www.burrittonthemountain.com
The City Lights & Stars Concert Series hosts seven concerts from May through September, with musical acts from varying genres. This years lineup features a fabulous mix of local hometown favorites and regional talent joining us on the Isenberg Gazebo stage. Enjoy being entertained under the stars of Alabama over a breathtaking view of the City of Huntsville only Burritt can provide. A casual atmosphere encourages attendees to bring chairs, blankets and picnic food to enjoy a relaxed musical experience. Concert Series Lineup: May 6th - Calypso Vision, May 27 - Entice, June 10 - Automatic Slim Blues Band, July 1 - Eric Essix, July 22 - Austin Grimm & Friends, August 12 - Mambo Gris Gris, September 9th - Huntsville’s In the Mood Swing Band.
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THE GUIDE Looking ahead
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The Daylily Festival • June 4 • 9 a.m. - 12 noon Huntsville Botanical Garden • www.hsvbg.org
CONTACT LAURA ADAMSKY 256-355-5827
There’s no better time to see the explosion of color in the Daylily Garden! Featuring over 800 types of daylilies, the Daylily Garden will be at its peak in early June, and The Botanical Gardens are celebrating these stunning blooms with the annual Daylily Festival. Volunteers from the Daylily Society will be available to greet guests, show them around the Daylily Garden, and answer questions about these brightly colored beauties.
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EVENTS
Asbury Church’s annual car and truck show returns May 21
L
Like most events, the annual Asbury Church Car and Bike Show took a hit during the pandemic, but is returning to its usual fun and excitement this year. The church announced the highly anticipated event will return May 21. Cool cars, supped up trucks, and decked out motorcycles will be rolling onto Asbury Church’s Madison campus on Saturday, May 21 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. With free admission and free vehicle registration for 2022, all kinds of vehicles are invited to participate, including hot rods, cruisers, pickups, hogs, vintage beauties and exotic imports. “It’s a great way to bring lots of people in the community together to enjoy a free day of fun and to take in lots of amazing vehicles from car and bike fanatics in the surrounding area,” said Bill Munts, Pastor of Operations at Asbury. “We hope to meet lots of our neighbors and can’t wait to welcome you onto our campus!” With up to 147 vehicles in previous years, the 2022 show
Madison Living 21
THE GUIDE
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is sure to have a jaw-dropping display of vehicles for the whole family to enjoy. Local sponsors will also be featured including some fun giveaways throughout the day. Plus, there will be plenty of free hotdogs for lunch too. Voting will be completed by amateur judges from 10 a.m.-11 a.m. with trophies awarded at 12pm. The 2022 Asbury Car & Bike Show will take place at Asbury’s north parking lot on the Madison Campus at 980 Hughes Road. Entrance will be from Gillespie Road. Attendee parking will be available behind Building 3. For vehicle registration or sponsor info, visit asburycarshow.com. Online participant registration is encouraged, but day-of vehicle registration and check-in will begin at 8am. No rain date is scheduled.
THE GUIDE
Trash Pandas Memorial Day Weekend • May 26-29 • Toyota Field in Madison • www.trashpandasbaseball.com The Rocket City Trash Pandas will celebrate Memorial Day weekend in a big way this year. Playing at home in Madison’s Toyota Field against the Tennessee Smokies, the Trash Pandas will host special events each night of the series. They are planning a Armed Forces Night with an Armed Forces Jersey Auction on May 26. On May 27 and 28, they are planning a fireworks display each night. the game starts at 6:35 for those nights, with the gate opening at 5 p.m. On Sunday, May 29, there will be Memorial Day Celebration with Digital Camo Cap giveaway. Kids Run the Bases. The game that day starts at 2:35 p.m. Gates open at 1 p.m.
Fantasy Playhouse’s Summer Camp gives stage time in Madison and Huntsville
I
If your child is already asking about what to do during summer vacation, look no further than summer camp sessions at Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theater and Academy. “Get ready for non-stop fun at our full-day summer camp offerings. Learn the magic of Broadway, become a superhero or supervillain, and discover a happily ever after,” Education Director Candice Cooper said. “Our campers will have a blast while learning popular dances and songs. They also will learn different elements of theatre. Campers are divided into age-appropriate groups,” Cooper said. For 2022 Summer Camp, Fantasy Playhouse is offering all new programs in full-day or half-day sessions, along with Performance Showcases. Four weeks of full-day camps are available. Each week will focus on a theme to inspire daily activities. Students will work on different elements of theatre including acting, voice, movement, dance, musical theatre and improvisation. Advanced Musical Theatre Showcase is a two-week intensive program. Aspiring actors will gain stage experience by working on a musical. Actors will showcase their talents in a fully developed production at Bob Jones High School. Class size is limited.
Another two-week program, Young Musical Theatre Showcase lets youth work on basic elements of staging a play. Actors will perform a short scene before the Advanced Musical Theatre Showcase at Bob Jones. For more information, call Cooper at 256-539-6829, email educationdirector@fantasyplayhouse.com or visit fantasyplayhouse.org.
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Madison Living 23
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Alabama Jubilee • May 28-29 • Point Mallard Park
Dozens of hot-air balloons will take to the air, weather permitting, and paint the sky above Decatur a rainbow of colors during the 45th annual Alabama Jubilee. Highlights of the two-day festival include the Hare and Hound Race on May 28 at 6:30 a.m., the balloon glow on May 28 at 8:15 p.m., the key grab on May 29 at 7 a.m., and evening flights and tethers on May 28 and 29 at 5:15 p.m. Along with high-flying fun, the festival will feature a car expo, antique tractor show and tractor games for children 6 and younger on May 28, an arts and craft show and bike show on May 28 and 29, and entertainment by Natchez Trace on May 28 at 6:30 p.m., and Almost Famous on May 29 at 8 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to bring picnics, blankets, lawn chairs and wear sunscreen. For a complete schedule, visit alabamajubilee.net.
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Citizen Science Girl Scout Day • May 14 • Cook Museum of Natural Science • Decatur • www.cookmuseum.org
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All levels of Scouts and their families are invited to join us for Citizen Science Girl Scout Day at the Cook Museum. The day is designed for scouts to explore the museum’s exhibits, see some of the museum’s animal ambassadors up close, and participate in special activities related to citizen science. Special pricing on timed-entry tickets will be offered onsite to scouts in uniform and their families!
Madison Living 25
DRESSES • JEWELRY • ACCESSORIES • HANDBAGS
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This beautiful bracelet can be yours. Be sure to check Meyer and Lee’s website for a great selection of jewelry. www.meyerandlee.com - Meyer and Lee Fine Jewelry
New indoor/ houseplant pots are a great way to add some style to your room. These are light weight and super durable. The Catbird Seat
Mother’s Day is May 8! This is just a small sample of our selection of beautiful jewelry that would make a perfect gift to that special Mom in your life! - Meyer and Lee Fine Jewelry.
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It is almost graduation time! This beautiful bracelet is the perfect gift she will always treasure. Double strand freshwater Pearl bracelet with sterling silver toggle clasp. Classic and trendy at the same time! - Meyer and Lee Fine Jewelry.
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There is plenty of decor ideas at Noble Passage Interiors
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We have some new indoor/ houseplant pots in stock. These #potterypot are a great way to add some style to your room. These are light weight and super durable.
INTERIORS 204 Main Street • Madison, AL 35758 • 256-325-1919 Tuesday - Friday 10-5; Saturday 10-4
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PEOPLE
ANDRE “TROUBLE MAN” HARRIS How he is using professional boxing to be better father STORY BY BOB LABBE
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The sport of boxing can at times be a brutal exhibition of physical activity that inflicts pain on the participants and challenges even the best athletes to the core of their own mental and physical toughness. Andre Harris, Jr. is utilizing his life experiences combined with sure will and determination to be both a better boxer and father through the hellish physical endeavor of being a professional boxer. On Saturday, April 23, Harris will step into the ring for his fourth pro fight when he’ll tangle with Dowen Pugh of Florida in a card of fights that’s being touted the “Rumble by The River V.” He’ll step into the ring utilizing the nickname “Trouble Man.” “When I step into the ring, somebody’s in trouble,” said
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Harris in between his workouts that usually come at the end of the day after putting in a good eight hours at his fulltime job in the delivery department of A-Z Resources of Huntsville. Harris grew up among the projects of Tuscaloosa where his father, Andre Sr., was incarcerated prior to Harris’ birth and his mother, Joyce, somehow raised her family of four children mostly on her own. Harris was an A-B honor roll student who had a passion for boxing and loved watching the sport on television. His favorite fighter was the Hall of Fame boxer Sugar Ray Leonard. Like many who grew up among the tough neighborhoods near his high school of Central High he was challenged at a young age.
“I had to defend myself and my siblings as I always hated watching others be bullied, so many times I stepped in and took care of situations many times others shied away from,” said Harris. His love for the sport of boxing and the reality check of his environment began to really take off in his teen years and soon led him to a gymnasium. He first stepped into the ring was in 2014 in nearby Northport and he began to get the feel for what he wanted to pursue in life. Within two years he was consistent in his training and soon became connected with a longtime boxing coach Damarius Hill. “He knew my family and I approached him he soon figured out he knew me when I was a young boy,” said Harris. “Boxing, I love the contact and for many of those in the
gym getting into boxing was a life-or-death situation with nowhere to go.” His skill set advanced quickly mainly because he always trained with the professional fighters and not the amateurs. He knew deep inside he had pursue the sport not just for himself. “I see it as a way out for my kids as I don’t want them to live that projects life,” said Harris, who has two daughters, ages 10 and seven, and one son, age 4. “I’m just a fighter who wants to be a great dad.” The 28-year-old Harris has three pro bouts under his belt all ending with the 5-foot-9, 175-pound cruiserweight scoring knockouts. His first fight was in November 2019, when he scored a first-round knockout at the 1:45 minute
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mark. He took some time away from arranging bouts to take care of his three children, but returned to the ring one year later when he scored another knockout. It took him just 1:18 to send his opponent to the canvass. In his third fight in May of 2021, Harris scored a TKO as his opponent retired on his stool after the third round. “I feel I make great adjustments once in the ring against an opponent,” said Harris. “Others see me as a knockout artist, but I see my talents as a great boxer. I have a great right hand and can follow that with numerous punches.” In August of 2020 Harris made the move from Tuscaloosa to the immediate Huntsville area to focus on his boxing career and his former management company was located nearby, but Harris has expanded his horizons opening his own Andre Harris Promotions business adventure. He trains in a boxing gym in Decatur where he does Facetime segments with Hill and they both view sparring sessions through video. He does much of his roadwork in and around the Huntsville-Madison area and can be spotted many times before dawn on the local roads before he preps for his job. Harris never dealt directly into the regular sports scene like many of his friends and at one time was hospitalized for a month at Birmingham’s UAB for a blood condition where his platelet levels dropped below dangerous levels causing his nose and sometimes ears to bleed as his blood would not clot properly. He spent weeks of rehabilitation after leaving the confines of the highly regarded health facility in Birmingham. While in high school he took creative writing classes as he loves to write poetry, some of which won awards for his creative talents. He loves to play chess and in his little spare time is a personal trainer. At age 16 Harris told his mother he would never move back home as he wanted out of the projects and wanted to change his life. His father is now out of prison and back home as Harris gets along with both of his parents. He wants more in life. He wants to excel as a father and a man. “I want to be better for my kids as my mother raised us by herself and I saw how tough that was on everyone,” said Harris. “I have shed blood and tears and like my mother I never gave up. I’m determined to finish what I started.” The next step into the ring in Gadsden will be another step forward for the Trouble Man.
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....................... AROUND TOWN .......................
National Foster Care Awareness Month
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Lee Marshall
Founder / CEO Kids to Love Foundation
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May is the month to recognize the crisis of foster care: National Foster Care Awareness Month. There are a lot of statistics to make people pay attention to the need. I think it’s more important you hear the stories: A newborn baby, born 8 weeks early, who will be released from the hospital to a foster family. The silver lining is that he will be in the same home as his big brother. A 12-year-old boy whose parents died and was going to be adopted by his uncle, until his uncle also passed away. A teen-age girl who had been adopted but whose adoptive parents changed their minds,
forcing her back into foster care. Kids to Love has been able to make a difference in the lives of each of these children, along with thousands more. If your heart is moved to help, I invite you to visit our website kidstolove.org. You’ll see amazing youth on the “Meet Our Kids” page. And if you’ve ever thought about becoming a foster parent, we can help with that too! All the information you need is under the tab titled “Who We Are.” Our mission at Kids to Love is simple: meet the needs of foster children. There’s no better month than May to help us do just that.
SPORTS
TWIN JETS
Twin sisters Elizabeth and Emma Brooks are two of James Clemens’ softball powerhouses as they celebrate their senior year STORY BY BOB LABBE PHOTOS BY JOSHUA BERRY
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On August 18, 2004, Bob and Kellie Brooks welcomed to their family new born twins Elizabeth and Emma. They were two of 365,562 babies born worldwide on that Wednesday of a leap year. But the fraternal twins delivered in Huntsville Hospital were no ordinary pair. Today as seniors at James Clemens High they are both outstanding players for the Jets’ softball team where Elizabeth pitches and plays first base and Emma is a third baseman. Elizabeth will continue her athletic prowess in college has she has signed a scholarship to play at Huntingdon College while Emma will end her softball play and concentrate on her studies at the University of Alabama to become an attorney. Not identical twins, Elizabeth (5-foot-11, 170-pounds), older by one minute, and Emma (5-6, 160) are two of the team leaders for the Lady Jets. The elder twin is more of a serious personality and little more reserved in her actions and many find her intimidating. Emma is constantly moving and goes each moment giving 110-percent effort. She said she’s selfless and not selfish and does her part for the team. Softball has been a way of life for the sisters since age four while their father was their coach until age 10 with their mother always alongside as their biggest supporter and
motivator. “We always played on the same team at Palmer Park. There was very little separation,” said Elizabeth, while Emma added, “Growing up we always got along as she’s my best friend. We had most classes together as I have helped her with English and history while she assist me in math. She’s a math wiz.” As you may have picked up on, the Brooks twins were raised like the many twins before them from the facts their Christmas gifts were similar, many times just different colors and their clothing many times were matching outfits. Like most who participate in athletics, the Brooks twins have not been spared of injuries while playing hard at their favorite sport. Both have had substantial injuries that have caused each to miss a lot of playing time, but have not deterred their enthusiasm and all-out physical effort at their sport of their choice. For Elizabeth, a fourth grade incident occurred where she broke her right ankle. As a sophomore she suffered an overuse injury to her right shoulder and she missed six weeks of action. Then, prior to her junior season she suffered a tear of her left labrum and was sent to the sidelines for six months. So far, this 2022 season, she has returned in full-force for her senior year.
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As for Emma, she suffered what could be termed a broken back, but doctors soon found out the injury was due to a birth defect. In a close game as a seventh grader she was running towards home plate in an eventual bang-bang play at the plate where she had a severe collision with the opposing catcher. While being under a doctor’s care the medical experts were astounded to find out her injury was sustained due to Emma’s birth defect of “spondyldysis,” a bony defect
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within the spine where the weakness can cause severe pain. “We found out about my condition from the injury and I was fitted with a back brace where I could not turn nor twist,” said Emma. “I underwent weeks of physical therapy and out of softball for eight weeks.” Emma’s wayward ways with injuries continued midway through the 2021 season when she broke her right ring finger and was only available to appear at the plate for a bun-
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ting situation. Her sideline positions were not over as she reinjured her ring finger for a second time just at the start of this season, which required surgery on Feb. 28. She was expected to be out of action all together for six to eight weeks. The competitive drive is a family tradition. Their father played soccer. Their mother played field hockey. Siblings of the twins have also dealt into the world of athletics. “Yeah, it runs in the family,” added Elizabeth. “We are very competitive during family game nights where we gather to play card games and other types of hands-on games. Personally, I’m always out to win.” On the softball field Elizabeth and Emma are different style of players. Away from the softball diamond they are separate personalities, but they are always twins to the core as Emma said, “At the end of every day we talk about our days and we genuinely care about what type of day we each experienced.” “We can’t really find that being twins is negative,” said Elizabeth. “We really like being together.” “For me, being a twin is great as I feel I always have my best friend in Elizabeth,” added Emma. “She’s my go to person.”
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DOWNTOWN
MADISON STREET FESTIVAL Popular festival to return after two-year hiatus due to COVID STORY BY GREGG PARKER
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Crystal McBrayer, President of the Madison Street Festival Committee, is one of those leaders who realizes the importance of each person in an organization. Because of COVID-19, the festival was canceled in 2020 and 2021. “While life has taken us for a ride the last two years, we haven’t stopped planning for a festival. In 2020, we canceled very early but continued to work on policies to ensure a smooth, fun festival,” McBrayer said. The festival committee then proceeded with planning for 2021 but again had to cancel due to concerns with COVID-19’s variant. As MSF President, McBrayer sees herself as “helper of all things. I believe in leading by example and being a servant leader. Leadership in its greatest form is built through relationships, collaboration, support, encouragement and strong communication.” “This festival happens with hard work, sacrifice of time, and talent of people on our committee. They are truly the heroes here,” McBrayer said. “They make me a better per-
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son. I can only hope to be the leader they deserve.” “We’re affectionately calling 2022 our ‘COMEBACK YEAR’ for the 40th festival. This festival is so rich in history and has such a legacy that many people still don’t know about,” McBrayer said. MSF volunteers are excited to introduce the festival to new, relocated families. “The festival is one big fundraising event with a mission,” she said. This day involves marketing for small businesses, artists exhibiting designs, youth interacting, entertainers sharing talent and food trucks introducing their wares. “Once that day is over, we take all profits and give back to educational programs through our grant program. Since 2012, we have given back $64,000 in grants,” McBrayer said. Currently, MSF is a 501(c)4 organization, with an application pending for 501(c)3 status. This transition will be a major accomplishment for MSF’s legacy, McBrayer said. In 2019, McBrayer started volunteering with MSF as
Teen Zone coordinator. However, she has been involved with MSF in other ways: vendor, three years; helping Whistle Stop Sweet Shop; assisting a relative in Artist Alley; and an appreciative visitor. McBrayer likes the aspect of ‘community’ in Madison. “Madison is big but still feels small. It’s so rich in history,” she said. An “Army brat” who lived in numerous states, she moved here in 1997 with a job transfer to turnaround a failing restaurant. “I never left.” Her husband Michael works in logistics at Raytheon. Their son Dalton attended Madison schools and graduated in James Clemens High School’s second class. Few people realize that Crystal is an artist. Having a passion for travel, Crystal has set a goal to visit all 50 states before her fiftieth birthday. “I have 17 more states to go in three short years.” For more information, email msf.pres@gmail.com or visit madisonstreetfestival.org, Facebook/Madison Street Festival or Instagram @madisonstreetfestival. The McBrayer Family: Crystal, Dalton and Michael.
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BUSINESS
UNCORK AND UNWIND A look at ChurchStreet Wine & Bottle Shop in the Village of Providence STORY BY BRENDA PEARCE PHOTOS BY JOSHUA BERRY
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ChurchStreet Wine Shoppe, the most celebrated wine shop in Downtown Huntsville, is expanding to the Village of Providence and has already opened its doors. This second location at 485 Providence Main St., sits right in the heart of Providence, directly across from Edgar’s. Owned by Matt Mell and Stephanie Kennedy-Mell, ChurchStreet Wine Shoppe in Downtown Huntsville has long been a local favorite for enjoying delicious wine and relaxing evenings with friends. The couple started their first ChurchStreet Wine Shoppe location in September 2014 at 501 Church St. across from the convention and visitor’s bureau to bring their passion for wine to the Huntsville community. Now they’re ready to share it with the Madison area. “Matt and I are thrilled to bring our love of wine and community to the Village of Providence,” Stephanie says. “For years, we’ve had customers from the Madison area say they’ve wanted something like the Shoppe closer to home. We can’t wait to share the same quality and flavor they’ve come to know and expect from the ChurchStreet Family. Now you don’t even have to leave your neighborhood to enjoy a unique wine experience in Providence.”
ChurchStreet Wine Shoppe has become a community staple with its frequent wine tasting events, visiting winemakers, and commitment to supporting charitable causes and local artists. With an inventory of over 1,000 wines from every corner of the globe, the Shoppe offers brands you can’t get anywhere else in the state of Alabama. With the new location comes an updated name to more accurately reflect what these shops provide- “ChurchStreet Wine Bar & Bottle Shoppe”. Feel free to come in and stay awhile, walk in, and grab a bottle to go, or call ahead and tell them what you’re having for dinner, and they’ll pick out a wine that’s just right to pair with your meal. The Providence location offers expanded hours, operating during both lunch and dinner. Wine flights are available seven days a week, along with pop-up specialty wine tastings and four-flavor wine flights. And as always, a bythe-glass wine list is offered. In addition to the vast collection of wines, The Shoppe has a selection of locally brewed beer, along with fun, delectable tapas, food, and desserts. Even with a new venue, guests feel right at home with a vibe similar to the Downtown location. Inviting silver hues can be seen throughout, along with featured local art,
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and wine racks that clearly display labels, so you’ll know exactly what you’re getting. “Wine of the Week” is also offered, giving guests the opportunity to sample wines they might not normally try, but at a discount. There will also be patio seating, perfect for decompressing after a long day or having fun with friends. “Our new space is the perfect unwind,” says Stephanie. “Guests can sit outside on the patio and enjoy live music, delicious wine, and the chance to sit back and relax for a while. We’ll have live music two times a week.” Guests can expect the same great service from the warm and welcoming staff, along with an elevated culinary experience. The Shoppe in Providence will offer dessert charcuterie boards, featuring pastries from new executive pastry chef, Indhira Gratereaux. Born in the Dominican Republic, Indhira developed a love for all things culinary by learning from her grandmother. Having studied under famous chefs like Denis Foy, David Bouley, Luis Brañez, and Pierre Hermès, Indhira’s talents are the perfect addition to the ChurchStreet Family. “Indhira creates magical pastries and has been collaborating very closely with us to create unique dessert boards that pair well with our wines,” states Stepha-
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Family SEVEN RESTAURANTS, ONE FAMILY
256.414.8248 // churchstreetfamily.com
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nie. “These boards are a fantastic experience for girl’s nights, fun gatherings, or for any occasion, really. Who doesn’t love dessert and wine?” The Shoppe will also feature their exclusive wine club. Members enjoy a sit down-style wine tasting, complete with five tastings of wine perfectly paired with waiterserved small food bites. While members enjoy these wine and food pairings, a wine educator shares details about the selection, tasting profiles, and vineyard. “Many times, the wines we offer at these tastings have limited availability, so it’s a wonderful opportunity to snag a bottle or two,” Stephanie says. “Our wine club has been such a hit at our Downtown location, we are excited to recreate it in Providence.” The new venue boasts entertaining space that can be partially or completely rented out for private events. There is room for a single guest or a group to get a full meal and after-dinner drinks. The space is ideal for corporate events, meetings, bridal showers, or that special birthday. You’ll also be able to work with someone on staff to customize a one-of-a-kind, memorable gift basket for any occasion. Don’t know which wine to choose? Gift cards are available too.
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The Mells are both passionate and well-versed about wine. Having spent many years showcasing vintages in numerous wine festivals, both locally and across the country, they enjoy educating guests on how wine highlights and enriches the flavors found in the dishes you are already enjoying. “Some of our favorite customers are people who know nothing about wine. We enjoy being able to guide them through the basics of choosing the right wine for the occasion and then working with them little by little to figure out their palate,” says Stephanie. The Mells seek not only to take care of clients, but they also actively work within the city. Each of the ChurchStreet Family locations has adopted a community partner to help enrich the local culture. “Building community has always been important to us wherever we are,” Stephanie says. “It means so much to us to be able to give back.” Both wine shops feature work from local artists on the walls that is available for sale. Many of the artists come from the Lowe Mill arts district and throughout the county. “We do a feature ‘meet and greet’ night for every artist that is showcased, and a percentage of the money raised is donated to the charity of their choice,” says Stephanie. With summer approaching, the ChurchStreet Wine Bar & Bottle Shop in Providence is a great place to get away and relax with friends. It will quickly become your favorite new “spot”. Stephanie’s promise: “We guarantee you’ll leave with a smile and at least one new favorite wine within your budget.” In addition to the ChurchStreet Wine Bar & Bottle Shop, the ChurchStreet Family also currently includes fine dining experience Purveyor, Mazzara’s Vinoteca Italian cuisine, Sea Salt Urban Oyster Bar, speakeasy Catacomb 435, and the city’s rooftop bar Pourhouse at Stovehouse. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram. There website is www. churchstreetfamily.com.
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....................... Madison City Schools .......................
Central Office staff at Madison City Schools “purple up” for the national #monthofthemilitarychild Purple Up campaign.
Madison schools back military as Purple Star School District
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Madison City Schools is now recognized as a “Purple Star” school district. That should be gold to military families who move often and frequently transition to new schools. The Alabama Purple Star Schools Program was created by a legislative act to help ease the John Peck social/emotional and sometimes Madison City Schools Public Relations Manager academic burden children face from frequent moves. The program set certain criteria that school districts and individual schools must meet to earn “Purple Star” status. Criteria includes such things as having a point of contact at each school for military students and families, hosting a dedicated Purple Star page on its website featuring resources for military families, maintaining a student-led program for peer support for newly enrolled and transitioning students, a strong board reso-
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lution of support, and other actions. Schools that qualify receive a Purple Star emblem to display on site. “I am proud to report that every single school in our district attained Purple Star status,” said Madison City Schools Superintendent Dr. Ed Nichols. “This classification affirms on paper what we have tried to do all along for our military families. Make their transition and school experience as smooth as possible, so service to our country is less of a burden on the homefront.” One of the hallmarks of the Purple Star Schools Program is for every school and/or the school district to have a student peer group led by a faculty advisor that welcomes and orients new students to schools. Every school across MCS has so-called S2S (studentto-student) peer groups that do this. These chapters raise awareness of the needs of all transitioning students, both military-connected and civilian. They do this through socials, special efforts to join newcomers at lunch and school functions, orienting them to the community, and other forms of outreach.
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Activities of the S2S (student-to-student) groups that help welcome new students.
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Cassie Scroggins, a senior at James Clemens who has been part of S2S welcoming groups, said at the Purple Star announcement last month, “I hope for the new students coming in that they will find their place here in Madison City. And I know that they will with the help of our students and staff and our administration who are committed to making them feel welcome as they make this their home.” Superintendent Nichols comes from a military family so he understands that military service is a family commitment. His father served 27 years in the Army and Air Force. “We wear some wristbands that say ‘Kids Serve, Too,’ because they do when their parent serves,” Dr. Nichols said. “We’re just proud that every one of our schools made that commitment to meet the criteria to be a welcoming place for military kids.” The Purple Star program was designed to help families mitigate the challenges of mobile-military life by setting standards, which assist students in adjusting to their new school locations. The nation’s military families make many sacrifices to ensure that their fellow citizens enjoy the great freedoms America stands for. A recent survey by the Military Child Education Coalition reports there are nearly 1.65 million military-connected children enrolled in schools across the United States and abroad. Military students move three to four times more often than their civilian counterparts. On average, they relocate nine times in their K-12 experience. One in four students in Madison City Schools is military-connected, with more than 400 of those having one or more parents in the U.S. uniformed services.
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OUT&ABOUT
The Rocket City Trash Pandas are known for more then baseball. They are also well known for their variety of fun special events. On April 23, in conjunction with Fleet Feet, the Trash Pandas hosted the second annual Trash Dash 5k run at Toyota Field in Madison. Here are some fun photos from the Trash Pandas of the race. For information on upcoming events at Toyota Field, go to www.trashpandasbaseball.com.
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OUT&ABOUT
HOME OPENER - Mother Nature had thoughts of dampening the plans first placed on the drawing board a year ago for the 2022 home opener of the Rocket City Trash Pandas, but the more than 5,600 in attendance along with the vast number of employees, special guests and members of both the Trash Pandas and the visiting Blue Wahoos from Pensacola would not have anything of the sort. Instead, the gray skies never turned to liquid and the two teams played to a thrilling nine-inning contest in the first home game of the home team’s schedule at Toyota Field on April 12. Here are some fun photos of the home-opener. For infoormation about upcoming games, go to www. trashpandasbaseball.com.
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OUT&ABOUT
The Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau hosted two walking tours of historic downtown Madison in April. Guide Cindi Sanderson shared interesting facts about the history of Madison as visitors toured many of the sites in the downtown area for the first tour on April 16. Gerald Clark conducted the second tour on April 23. Every spring the Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau shows off Madison through its free walking tours. Tours are guided by local experts and focus on the historic district. Here are some fun photos from the two events.
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Check out the new edition of Explore! 60 years elebrates
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You can find in hundreds of locations in the greater Huntsville area, or go to www.themadisonrecord.com 60 Madison Living
Here is a sample of the stories you can find every week in...
M adison RECORD THE
You can find The Madison Record in newsstands across Madison or online at www.themadisonrecord.com
At the Daytona High School Drill Nationals, Bob Jones Blue Knights competed in the Beach Run as one test of skill. Cadets in the photo are Clay Whigham, from left, Bailey Hartsfield, Molly Halter, Cameron Farr, Arianna Lee, Manfred Rosero, Senior Aerospace Science Instructor Maj. Melissa Lacey, Logan Jackson, Benjamin Miller, Elian Castaneda, Marjorie Baumbach, Esteban Del Rio Perez, Kendall Jackson, Joshua Johnson and Nick Jensen.
Bob Jones Blue Knights earn numerous honors in Daytona By GREGG PARKER gregg@themadisonrecord.com
the Daytona High School Drill Nationals. “Our Fitness Team placed fifth in the 3K Beach Run. Marjorie Baumbach placed first for the women’s standing DAYTONA, FLA. – The Blue Knights in the Air Force Ju- long-jump. Kendall Jackson placed second for the men’s nior ROTC or AFJROTC unit from Bob Jones High School standing long-jump,” CMSgt Ellis Q. Clark said. enjoyed the sandy beach but not as much as their wins in After serving in the U.S. Air Force, Clark works as Aero-
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space Science Instructor with Bob Jones AFJROTC Unit. “Our Drill Team, commanded by Cadet Lucy Halter, placed third in Inspection. Flight Regulation, commanded by Cadet Shaniya Lanier, placed third. The Exhibition Routine, commanded by Cadet Jackson Ford, placed third,” Clark said. Bob Jones Honor Guard, commanded by Cadet Anthony Pena, again won first place. The Blue Knights won runner-up of the Overall Unarmed Division. Shaniya Lanier won the prestigious Jean Weil College Scholarship. “This event is massive, with Fitness activities taking place on the beach initially, while the Drill Team underwent inspection and the Regulation Flight performed its routine,” Clark said. “On the second day, the drill team performed the Exhibition Routine and our Color Guard performed its routine.” “The Fitness Award Ceremony took place on Friday night . . . with lots of awards. On Saturday, the Drill Competition awards were presented. The stage was set, and there were roughly 65 schools in attendance that com-
prised the 100 teams that competed in drill over the two days,” Clark said. Clark described the atmosphere as “electric” as five levels of winners from each division of every routine were announced. “I was ecstatic to hear our team’s name, ‘The Blue Knights from Bob Jones,’ called for every event . . . and especially hearing them announce our Color Guard as Champions again for the second year running,” Clark said. “Moreover, I was extremely pleased that we earned Division Runner-Up because my cadets put in some very hard work attending practices at ‘o-dark o’clock,’ while the rest of Madison is still stirring in bed and reaching for snooze buttons,” Clark said. Clark expressed gratitude to the parents who either bring their children or allow their children to attend practice that early. “We can now see the results of their child’s hard work,” he said. “Finally, I give a special shout-out to Maj. Melissa Lacey and Mrs. James for providing their support wherever and whenever needed,” Clark said
M adison RECORD THE
You can find The Madison Record in newsstands across Madison or online at www.themadisonrecord.com
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S U P E R H E R O F U N DAY !
Dust off your cape for the 9th annual Superhero Day, September 10th, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Athens Big Spring Memorial Park (Duck Pond) in Athens, Alabama. Enjoy free kids’ activities hosted by local businesses and groups, food trucks, rented rides and inflatables, music, and SUPERHEROES! A gang of about 30-40 Heroes comes out for this event. Our Real Heroes section features law enforcement, military, fire, farmers, utility linemen, and this year we Promoter: will feature real heroes from the First Responders community in recognition of their service for 9/11. Saturday, September 10, 2022 Athens Big Spring Memorial (Duck Pond) 100 N. Beaty Street, Athens, AL 35611 Including 50 exhibitors, Parade of Heroes, costume contest, lego vehicle contest and more! Learn more at https://www.elisblockparty.org BRIAN MAY . Engel & Völkers Huntsville
320 The Bridge Street . Suite 104 . Huntsville . AL 35806
(256) 497-6780 brian.may@evrealestate.com
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Trust one of the best orthopedic and spine teams in America while you experience your care in our new Orthopedic & Spine Tower at Huntsville Hospital.