The Madison Record - June 28, 2023

Madison THE RECORD

Celebrating Independence

Libertarians approved to participate in next Madison Co. primary

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON COUNTY - Madison County is making history with the next general election.

The libertarian party has been approved to participate in the 2024 primary election, marking the first time in Alabama history libertarians have achieved this feat.

According to a press release Monday, the Libertarian Party of Madison County, Alabama (LPMCA), filed a resolution on June 22 for participation in the 2024 primary election.

Several activities planned to celebrate the 4th of July

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – Patriotic sights and sounds will make you feel like a ‘Yankee Doodle Dandy’ when the City of Madison presents “The Star-Spangled Celebration.”

The event on July 3 will run from 5 to 9 p.m. at Dublin Park, 8324 Old Madison Pike. “We hope everyone can come out for the event,” Kory Alfred said. Alfred is Director of Madison Parks and Recreation Department, which is sponsoring the city celebration.

The event is free to the public. For live entertainment, the band, Groove, will keep the pace upbeat with their music. Several food trucks are scheduled to sell refreshments to the crowd.

The trucks and entertainment will be set up on Soccer Field no. 1. A set of inflatable amusements, like a moon bounce and slides, on Soccer Field no. 2 will offer fun activities for the boys and girls.

Madison will enjoy the Fourth of July at “The Star-Spangled Celebration” at Dublin Park on July 3 from 5 to

Parking will be available at Bob Jones High School, 650 Hughes Road, and shuttle buses will transport visitors roundtrip to Dublin Park. The shuttle service will begin at 4:30 p.m. This transportation is free.

The Star-Spangled Celebration’s finale will be a rousing

fireworks show.

Madison police officers and firefighters, along with HEMSI first-responders, will cover safety for spectators.

In addition, the second annual “Battle of the Paddle” pickleball tournament will be held

“This follows Libertarian success in the 2022 general election, with Madison resident Alan Barksdale for sheriff getting 23 percent of the vote and Laura Lane for public service commission getting 26 percent,” stated the press release. “Due to achieving at least 20 percent in those races, the LPMCA was declared a major political party for elections in Madison County, which entitles libertarians to participate in primary elections.

Additionally, it removes the requirement for the LPMCA to petition for ballot access for any election for county office or below.”

While this isn’t the first time the libertarians have been a major party, this does mark the first time since the founding of the state party in 1975 that they are participating in a primary election.

“The LPMCA is fully prepared to support new candidates with a series of training courses, and registration is open now for anyone interested in learning how to run for office in Madison County as a libertarian.”

Should someone desire to be a candidate in the 2024 primary for the LPMCA, the filing window begins on July 2, 2023, and ends November 11, 2023.

More information can be found at LPMCA.org.

Raise Your Hand program raising local education excellence

By MARIA RAKOCZY maria@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON COUNTY - North Alabama is already home to several accomplished school districts, but the Committee of 100, an organization of local business owners and executives striving to improve the area, wants to accomplish even more for the three school districts in Madison County.

The Raise Your Hand Program

was the initiative born out of the committee’s non-profit arm, Creative Cities Fund, and works with the Schools Foundation to increase the number of Nationally Board-Certified Teachers (NBCT) in the area by five hundred. A National Board Certification is the highest credential a teacher can earn. The process consists of four major parts and can take from one to three years. The process to certification comes with a cost, as well,

that the Schools Foundation and Creative Cities Fund are helping to mitigate by providing scholarships for five-hundred teachers.

According to Chair of the Creative Cities Fund Kris McBride, “We set out to achieve the highest density of NBCTs in comparable communities in our nation. So, to achieve twenty-seven percent NBCTs in our three systems, we would need to provide scholarships for five hundred certified teachers. The challenge

was accepted again, and we have made tremendous gains toward that goal.”

The Committee of 100 hosted a breakfast last Wednesday where speakers shared updates on the progress made by the Raise Your Hand initiative and extrapolated on the benefits of NBCTs to students’ learning.

Since 2020, Raise Your Hand has increased the total number of NBCTs across Huntsville

See RAISE YOUR HAND Page 2B

The Trash Pandas are kicking off another homestand at Toyota Field on Tuesday, July 4 as they take on the Chattanooga Lookouts. A special firewworks display will be held after the game to celebrate Independence Day.

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“A friend is someone who knows all about you and still loves you.”

- Elbert Hubbard

Police: Man threatened to blow up hotel, shoot staff and guests

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

DECATUR - A Florence man threatened to blow up the Holiday Inn Express in Southwest Decatur and shoot its staff and guests last week, according to an affidavit by a Decatur police detective.

Gabriel Samuel Clemmons, 23, was charged with making a terrorist threat and remains in Morgan County Jail last Wednesday, according to jail records.

Hotel staff called 911 and pulled the fire alarm to evacuate the building after Clemmons threatened “violence by use of a bomb, explosive, firearm and deadly weapon” toward staff and guests, according to the affidavit. Morgan County 911 said it received the call at 10:14 a.m. Monday. Clemmons was booked into the jail at 1:39 p.m. that day.

Police said Clemmons’ threats were captured on hotel video and that multiple witnesses gave statements corroborating the events. The affidavit said Clemmons was occupying a room in the hotel at 2407 Beltline Road.

Staff at the Holiday Inn Express declined to discuss the incident with a

Clemmons

reporter.

Clemmons was also held Wednesday for failure to appear in court for a harassing communications charge involving an incident five years ago.

Clemmons allegedly sent a friend request to a woman on Facebook in 2018 and tried to video call her “at least 100 times that day,” according to a complaint filed in Morgan County District Court.

Clemmons then threatened to rape the complainant after she declined his calls, according to the statement.

Clemmons is being held at Morgan County Jail in lieu of a $5,000 bond. Making a terrorist threat is a class C felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison.

Correction: In last week’s issue of The Record, a story stated Madison City Council member Maura Wroblewski voted against amending the city’s budget. She did vote for the amendment, but also brought up concerns about the budget’s allotment of nearly $1 million for signs. We apologize for the error.

of the Alabama Press Association

Summer programs are going strong in Madison City Schools, with nearly 600 students enrolled in engaging but fun learning activities lead by dedicated teachers and staff, like this activity above. You can read more about them and see more photos on page 8B.

SOUNDS OF SUMMER - The rain departed just in time for the Madison Arts Alliance’s “Sounds of Summer” concert on Thursday featuring The Zooks. The free concert series is being held in downtown Madison every other week. Two concerts are scheduled for July, on July 13 and 27. The concert’s venue is Home Place Park at 100 Shorter St.. Sounds of Summer will open at 7 p.m. and close at 9 p.m. The next concert in the series features Calypso Vision on July 13. This group sets a pleasing yet upbeat atmosphere to bring people in the audience to a relaxed spirit of good ‘ole rock ’n’ roll.’ The music may even induce a chance to dream. Their self-described ‘gumbo mix’ blends the tone of Jimmy Buffett with classic rock, grounded in alternative roots and a few hippie surprises, according to their website. Calypso Vision offers folks an escape for a while, to kick back and enjoy the songs. On July 27, the Jimmy Henderson Trio will perform. This group plays blues/rock originals and well-known covers. Food trucks will be available at each concert.

Raise Your Hand

Continued from page 1A

City, Madison City, and Madison County districts from one-hundred fifty-six to two-hundred eighteen with forty-two teachers awaiting awarding of certification and another one-hundred forty-four in the process of certification. Madison City school district has already been overachieving with its nationally ranked high concentration of NBCTs and continues to lead the way in Madison County with the most NBCT candidates pending certification and currently undergoing the certification process of the three area school districts.

“We certainly take it as an honor to have those outstanding certificates presented to our teachers in Madison City Schools,” Madison City Schools Superintendent Dr. Ed Nichols said. “Thank you to all that helped us with this and congratulations.”

Increasing the number of NBCTs in the area will help boost student performance while they are in area schools and help them later down the line in higher education and their future careers, thus equipping the Huntsville-Madison County area with a high-powered future workforce and providing economic benefit to the area. Indeed, statistics show that students taught by NBCTs have one to two-month learning gains over other students, gain an extra grade level of instruction, and have increased income later in life. NBCTs also save the community money on remedial education and

add to the economy with a $5,000 yearly additional stipend.

“It is our mission to inspire and engage and empower all students on their way to success and the number way we do that is to give them access to a knowledgeable, energetic, passionate teacher. How do we show that passion? By this wonderful certification,” Superintendent of Huntsville City Schools Dr. Clarence Sutton praised NBCTs for their benefits to Huntsville students.

While National Board Certification is meant to be a rigorous and challenging program, Raise Your Hand is working to making it more accessible by eliminating the financial burden, and keynote speaker at the breakfast, Dr. LaTonya Sibley an NBCT herself and professor at Alabama State University, assured that the program is an entirely doable investment for teachers.

“It seemed so unreachable or untouchable but then, when I found out it was created by teachers and it’s for teachers and its revised consistently by teachers, that made me feel better about the process. So, please know it’s by teachers. It’s for teachers,” Sibley explained.

Together the Committee of 100, its multitude of partnering businesses, and the Madison City, Huntsville City, and Madison County school districts are raising the bar for excellence in North Alabama education with the Raise Your Hand initiative.

Keynote Speaker Dr. LaTonya Sibley explained the NBC program’s history and requirements.

‘Living his best life’: Catching up with Cosmo, the star of Ground Dog Day

By ZACH HESTER City of Huntsville

HUNTSVILLE - Those who remember the City’s annual “Ground Dog Day” event at Huntsville Animal Services in February 2023 would likely recognize Cosmo, the mixedbreed pup that accurately predicted an early spring.

Cosmo’s journey at Animal Services began when he arrived a few days before Ground Dog Day.

“He was such a happy, enthusiastic, truly joyful American bulldog type,” said Huntsville Animal Services Director Dr. Karen Sheppard. “He loved to play outside, but as spring came, our poor boy hadn’t found the right match.”

Cosmo was first adopted in early March, but was returned to the shelter two weeks later through no fault of his own. That’s when Haleyville resident Ashley Thomas saw his photo on the Animal Services Facebook page.

“I messaged my husband and told him ‘Look at this sweet baby’,” Thomas said. “Later that evening, I got home after work and made plans to go the following Saturday and adopt Cosmo.”

A BAD REP

Thomas said her family previously had a blockheaded breed named Theo, which ran away during a move. They also own Chipper, a miniature schnauzer.

She said pit mixes like Cosmo have a terrible reputation, but in her experience, they couldn’t be sweeter.

“Both pit/blockheaded dogs we’ve had are nothing but babies,” she explained. “Dogs are definitely trained to be mean or have been abused, so that’s the only answer they know.”

Thomas said Cosmo’s best personality trait is his willingness to make sure you’re loved.

“He loves to cuddle and make sure you know he loves you,” she said. “He is always trying to kiss on us when we get home from work and when it’s bedtime, he wants to be right there beside you.”

A STAR IN THE MAKING

When Thomas went to adopt Cosmo, she wasn’t aware of his star power.

Cosmo became well-known across social media for his accurate prediction on the City’s “Ground Dog Day,” an Animal Services tradition that sees one pup chose between bowls marked “Early Spring” and “More Winter.”

Dr. Sheppard said Cosmo was “cunningly brilliant about the weather.”

“We learned [about Cosmo’s prediction] the day we adopted him,” she said. “I think it is so cool that he was a part of that! He doesn’t do

Paris Air Show an opportunity to tell the story of Huntsville

By TOMMY BATTLE Mayor of Huntsville

HUNTSVILLE - Here in Huntsville, we like things that fly. Whether it has wings, rotors or a solid rocket booster, we’ve gained altitude in the aerospace industry since Marshall Space Flight Center opened in 1960.

Huntsville’s excellence in aerospace is one of many reasons why successful companies locate and thrive here. From the innovative work performed at Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, Aerojet Rocketdyne and Blue Origin to NASA’s successful Artemis 1 launch last November, Huntsville has cemented its position as a dynamic aerospace hub.

Alabama has further benefited from the depth of Huntsville’s aerospace success and boasts a fiveyear growth rate that is nearly double the national average in the aerospace, space and aviation sector.

Along with 14,200 aerospace manufacturing jobs, the state is home to about 3,900 aerospace engineers, most of whom reside in Huntsville, ranking Alabama fifth in the nation.

Our secret is out, but that’s no reason to throttle down. While our reputation is growing throughout the United States, we want and need to be competitive on a global stage. That’s one reason I was proud to join Alabama’s economic development delegation at this year’s Paris Air Show.

Along with Alabama’s Secretary of Commerce Greg Canfield, U.S. Sen.

Katie Britt, U.S. Rep. Dale Strong, UAH President Chuck Karr, representatives from Huntsville’s Airport Authority and the Chamber, we worked from dawn to dusk to meet new industry leaders and strengthen relationships with aerospace companies that already have a presence here. Face time with these industry leaders is crucial to their success and ours.

Thanks to a well-organized schedule, we engaged in dozens of meetings with key decision-makers. We promoted our advanced manufacturing initiatives and stateof-the-art career tech centers. We touted regional partnerships between our two-year colleges and fouryear universities that yield top-tier graduates.

In turn, we were able to learn about developing trends and undertones in the global aerospace industry. Conversations centered on evolving propulsion systems that will take us to Mars, nuclear fusion, aerial automotive taxis (the Jetsons are coming sooner than you think), and the integration of artificial intelligence.

Our return on investment from the Paris Air Show is substantial. The unsurpassed concentration of key aerospace movers and shakers provided us with introductions and a list of prospects for new opportunities. Any time we can tell our incredible story to job creators, particularly in the aerospace industry, we give lift to Huntsville’s leadership role in all things space.

much forecasting now; he mostly runs around playing and acting crazy.”

FUR-EVER HOME Settled in with his new family, Thomas said Cosmo’s “doing great and living his best life!”

She and her husband have five children who also love to spoil him.

He’s even got his own mini swimming pool for hot days.

Thomas chose to “adopt, not shop,” because Cosmo needed to be

loved.

“Cosmo was the missing piece to our family,” she concluded. “The shelter babies need just as much loving as any other dog. When you go to adopt, just ask questions about the dog you are looking at adopting.”

Animal Services is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call 256-883-3782, visit HuntsvilleAL.gov/Animal or visit their Facebook page to learn more.

Animal Services Director Dr. Karen Sheppard cheers as Cosmo selects “Early Spring” in his Ground Dog Day prediction.

Cosmo sits on a rug alongside his “brother,” Chipper, a miniature schnauzer.

Cosmo, a rescue dog from Huntsville Animal Services, snuggles with his adoptive dog mom, Ashley Thomas.

Alabama’s economic development delegation at this year’s Paris Air Show included a strong bench of Huntsville-Madison County representatives from the City of Huntsville, Madison County Commission, Chamber of Commerce, Airport Authority, UAH, NASA and the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.

LIVING

Now you know

BBQ Joints

By JOE HOBBY Columnist

I love me some BBQ.

That’s because I’m southern, and it’s the law. If you cut me, I will probably bleed smoky, sweet, red sauce. Any kind of meat is fine, but I have a strong lean toward pork ribs. I firmly believe a properly barbecued pigsicle can change your life faster than a Baptist preacher’s sermon. I will eat BBQ anywhere, but my favorite places are always the joints. For those of you that don’t know, a BBQ restaurant is not a BBQ joint. Let me elaborate.

Once I ate in a BBQ establishment in Kansas City that had white tablecloths. It was decent ‘cue, but white tablecloths?

Just a few miles away was another place that had a policeman patrolling the parking lot and an old screen door in front. That, my friends, is a joint.

To be a true BBQ joint you have to be a little scared to go inside. Start with a sketchy part of town. Concrete block exteriors are always a good sign. Maybe it’s been added on to a couple of times. A BBQ joint can even be a part of a gas station. And you’re on the right track if there’s a gravel parking lot with a couple of State Trooper cars out frontunless their blue lights are flashing. Then it might be best to eat somewhere else.

Once inside, a proper BBQ joint needs to have lots of stuff hanging on the walls, mostly from the college football teams in the state. Traffic signs, and fake metal snuff ads will not do. Those reeks of Applebee’s. Photos of old football coaches are especially desirable. I went in one place that had an ancient, yellowed picture of

a young Bobby Bowden. That’s perfect. It also helps if there’s any type of neon sign prominently displayed. Bonus points are awarded if some of the letters don’t light up. Then you could have an udweiser or an iller beer.

One place that meets all the requirements of a BBQ joint is Dreamland in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Now the place is an icon, with notoriety that goes far beyond the south. But it wasn’t always that way.

Years ago, I took a friend from Florida to the original location because he “wanted some good ribs.” I almost laughed out loud watching the color drain from his face when we left the main road and entered a rough part of town. He looked on either side and saw carnage that resembled Berlin just after World War Two. We drove on in silence for another mile before I turned off the paved road on to a gravel one. About 200 yards later, I made a left into a dirt parking lot and pulled up to one of the telephone poles laying on the ground. We were facing an old red cinder block building. Hello, Dreamland.

My buddy looked at me with a mixture of fear and anger then asked, “What are we doing now?”

“We’re gonna eat ribs. You said you wanted good ribs.”

“You are out of your mind if you think I’m going in there,” he responded sternly.

“Look around at all the cars. It’s fine. I’ve been here lots of times. C’mon. Let’s go.”

“I’m not going.”

I pointed to a couple of white Ford Crown Vics with small antennas on their trunks. “See those? They’re state vehicles. Probably cops. This place is safe. Now get out of the car.”

Still not quite con-

A waffle iron inspired one of the first pairs of Nikes - Bill Bowerman was a track and field coach in the 1950s who didn’t like how running shoes were made. He first created the Cortez shoe but wanted a sneaker that was even lighter and could be worn on a variety of surfaces. During a waffle breakfast with his wife in 1970, he came up with the idea of using the waffle texture on the soles of running shoes. Waffle-soled shoes made their big debut in the 1972 U.S. Olympic track and field trials in Eugene, Oregon.

Liberty Choir members performs on Carnegie Hall’s renowned stage

By GREGG PARKER gregg@themadisonrecord.com

NEW YOUR CITY - Choir members at Liberty Middle School obviously know the answer: “Practice, practice, practice.”

Practice, in countless hours, led Liberty Choir to the extraordinary opportunity to perform at the legendary Carnegie Hall in New York City. Liberty’s performance was associated with the prestigious Honors Performance Series.

Choir conductor Alicia Moreno Mulloy, nicknamed “Mrs. M&M” by students, nominated her students. They booked an audition, which opened their selection “to showcase their musical prowess in the heart of New York City,” Mulloy said. Mulloy is a National Board Certified Teacher or NBCT and serves as Director of Choral Music at Liberty.

Carnegie Hall is a concert venue in Midtown Manhattan in New York City. Philanthropist Andrew Carnegie built the structure, known as one of the most prestigious venues in the world for both classical music and popular music. Carnegie Hall has its own artistic programming, development and marketing departments and presents about 250 performances each season.

Eight Liberty Choir members took center stage at Carnegie Hall, “captivating the audience with their mesmerizing voices and captivating harmonies” on June 17, Mulloy said. The concert, featuring talented young musicians from across the country, was a celebration of musical excellence and a testament to the dedication and hard work of these gifted performers.

Liberty choir members who were chosen by the Honors Performance Series to perform were Mavanea Baker, Arianna Fowler, Annabelle Gagliano, Alayana

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The Honors Performance Series at Carnegie Hall provides young musicians with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to perform in one of the most prestigious concert halls in the world. The series serves as a platform to recognize exceptional talent and reward the dedication and passion these students exhibit for their craft, Mulloy said.

‘Mrs. M&M’ expressed her pride and admiration for the choir members. “I am incredibly proud of each and every one of these talented students,” Mulloy said. “They have worked tirelessly to hone their skills, and their per-

formance at Carnegie Hall was nothing short of exceptional. It was a true honor to witness their growth and provide them the opportunity to shine on such a renowned stage.”

The Liberty Middle School Choir’s achievement is a testament to the school’s commitment to providing its students with exceptional music education opportunities. The choir’s performance not only highlights the dedication and talent of the choir members but also demonstrates the invaluable role that music plays in shaping young minds and fostering creativity, Mulloy said.

“As the curtains closed on their

Gray, Tejas Iyer, Ja’Zya Poe, Chloe Propes and Ana Sullivan.

Liberty Middle School Choir members performed on the world-renowned stage of Carnegie Hall in New York City.

The performance was held by the prestigious Honors Performance Series.

Madison City Youth Orchestra in tune for its 10th anniversary

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – Boys, girls and teenagers in Madison City Youth Orchestra or MCYO are learning to play or keeping their playing in top form during their 2023 Summer Session.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the instrumental group.

“Parents who are looking for a free summer event for their child (will find) the Madison City Youth Orchestra is a great choice,” Rebecca Wortham said. Rebecca and William Wortham are the owners and conductors of MCYO.

The youth orchestra rehearses at Haven Baptist Church, 1840 Slaughter Road in Madison. Rehearsals for the various skill levels meet during the 6 to

8 p.m. timeframe.

“Our orchestra is free and open to ages eight and older,” Rebecca said. MCYO’s summer session opened on June 11.

“If your child is completely new to music and has never played before, he or she will need to join the Novice level on violin,” Rebecca said. “You can take your child to be fitted and rent or purchase violins at Madison Band Supply, The Fret Shop, Hallman’s Music or any other music store.”

MCYO rehearses in groups based on skill/experience levels. All members should bring a pencil and a folding, metal stand (preferably black):

• Novice Violin – The child is brand new to the instrument; no musical experience is necessary. A member needs a violin, rosin and “Essential Elements

for Strings, Book One for Violin.” Rehearsal time is Sunday, 6 to 7 p.m.

• Beginning Winds – For band and percussion. This MCYO member can play at least halfway through any method book, level 1. The member needs a brass, woodwind or percussion instrument and “Traditions of Excellence, Book One.” Rehearsal time is Sunday, 7 to 8 p.m.

• Beginning Strings – This MCYO string member can play at least halfway through any method book, level 1. The member needs a violin, cello or upright bass; rosin; and “Essential Elements for Strings, Book One.” Rehearsal time is Sunday, 6 to 7 p.m.

• Intermediate/Advanced Full Orchestra – This student has an

tmjgroupins@gmail.com

Spend summer in the Garden: Huntsville Botanical Garden filled with summer activities

the Huntsville Botanical Garden has plenty of options to fill that void.

Family Campout in the Garden Family Campout in the Garden presented by Bankston Motor Homes is an opportunity for family bonding over classic camping activities like a s’mores campfire, hiking, and story time. It offers camping for both new and experienced campers in the beautiful and safe setting of the Botanical Gardens. The events are overnight and take place once a month through October. Upcoming sessions are July 21-22, August 18-19, September 8-9, and October 13-14.

Golden Hour

Music meets nature at the weekly Golden Hour events. Golden Hour brings a different genre of live music performers on the Carriage House patio every month on Wednesdays through August. The genres will include classic rock in June, jazz in July, and a mix of country, classic rock, and jazz all in August.

Spokeperson for the Huntsville Botani-

cal Garden, Kristen Bowen described the event, “For one night each week through August, we offer the unique experience of enjoying the beauty of the Garden until dusk. Illuminated by the warm glow of the setting sun, the Golden Hour invites you to unwind and enjoy the Garden’s natural beauty in a new light.” Take in the sights and sounds on foot through the trails of the gardens or relax in a lawn chair on the garden lawn. Bites and refreshments including salads, burgers, sandwiches, and alcoholic beverages are available at The Garden Café.

Dog Nights

The Botanical Garden is welcoming the entire family this summer with the gardens open for four-legged pals on select nights through August. Dog Nights take place on Garden Mondays from 4pm to 6pm until August 28. Put a twist on your daily dog walk with a stroll through beauty of the Huntsville Botanical Garden.

Origami in the Garden

While you’re at the garden for all of these wonderful events, check out the temporary Origami in the Garden display while it lasts until August 27. The display of eighteen life-size metal origami structures was created by Santa Fe artists Jennifer and Kevin Box and origami artists.

Madison City Youth Orchestra has a Summer Session that helps students with their musical performance while having fun during the summer break from school.

A popular event this summer at Huntsville Botanical Garden is the family campout nights. The next one will be held July 21-22.

Jurassic Quest

June 30 - July 2 • Fri 12 - 8 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. - 8 a.m., Sun 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Von Braun Center • www.vonbrauncenter.com

There’s no better place to make pter-iffic memories playing with adorable baby Dinos, excavating fossils, or even training a raptor while surrounding by behemoths like sky-scraping Spinosaurus and, the King himself, Tyrannosaurus rex! Jurassic Quest is the world’s largest, most popular dino event with the unique and exciting experiences for the whole family. Observe the herd of life size animatronic dinosaurs including Apatosaurus, Spinosaurus, and an incredible T-Rex!

Madison City Farmers Market

Every Saturday 8 a.m. to noon • 1088 Hughes Road

www.madisoncityfarmersmarket.com

Located at 1088 Hughes Road, next to Trinity Baptist Church, Madison City Farmers Market is a producer-only farmers market founded in 2007. 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. For more go to madisoncityfarmersmarket.com.

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast

June 27-30 & July 1 • 7-9 p.m.

Main Stage Theatre at Lee High School

2500 Meridian Street in Huntsville

www.imphuntsville.org

An international sensation based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature. The classic story tells of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed into his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity. The stage version includes all of the wonderful songs written by Alan Menken and the late Howard Ashman, along with new songs by Mr. Menken and Tim Rice.

Midcity Market

The Camp in Huntsville

Sunday means time for The Market at MidCity. Each Sunday MidCity hosts a wide range of vendors, from food to goodies. The Market will be held each week through Nov. 12 from 12-4 p.m. It is located at The Camp, 5909 University Drive in Huntsville. For your ears, “The Camp Counselors” are on stage at The Camp every Sunday providing great live music.

For more events, go to www.

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vinced, he sauntered towards the front door like it was the Green Mile. We settled into an old vinyl booth, and immediately our waitress brought us a half a loaf of white bread along with a cup of sauce. She smiled a gaptoothed smile and said, “Ya’ll ready?”

I responded, “Yeah. I’ll

order for both of us.”

“Wait,” he interrupted. “You don’t know what I want.”

“I know what you’re gonna get.”

Turning to the waitress he asked, “Can I have some baked beans?”

“Nope. Ain’t got any.”

“What about coleslaw?”

She looked at me and we exchanged knowing

glances. Then she said firmly, “Look, we got ribs, white bread, chips, Cokes, and beer. That’s it. That’s all we got.”

Properly chastised, my friend slinked in his seat.

I smiled said, “Bring us a slab and a couple of Cokes, please. Thanks, Joanette.”

“Wait! You know her name?”

Celebrations

in conjunction with the Star-Spangled Celebration. The tournament will be staged at the outdoor courts at Dublin Park on July 3 beginning at 8 a.m. Madison Parks and Recreation is sponsoring the tournament.

The fee is $30 per player, with $15 for each additional division entry. A T-shirt is included with the fee.

A player will pick a partner. Both partners must be registered to participate.

For this tourney, “No Partner, No Problem,” because players will receive an email message before the tournament to choose from a list of available players.

“Battle of the Paddle” is a round-robin style tournament, with a three-game minimum guaranteed. The available divisions will be “Men,”

I laughed. “Told you I’ve been here before.”

Shortly, the ribs arrived and my buddy took a large, meaty bite. Soon he was attacking his plate with the gusto of a lion who had just killed an antelope. After about half a slab, he looked up at me and without wiping the sauce from his face, said, “Ribs this good don’t need

Continued from page 1A

“Women” and “Mixed.”

Age categories will be 49 years and younger, along with 50 years and older.

For each division, the first- and second-place players will receive prizes.

Registration is open through June 23. To register online, visit www. madisonal.gov, and click “Departments.” Then click “Parks and Recreation,” “Special Events” and “July 4th events.”

For pickleball tournament info, call 256-7722557 or email stephanie. elmore@madisonal.gov.

For more information about the Star-Spangled Celebration, call 256-7729300, or visit www.madisonal.gov/recreation.

nothing else with them.”

Bingo. That’s the final trait of a BBQ joint. Great ‘cue. Sides can be just okay, but that’s what they are - sides. BBQ is always the star of the show. It had better be good. And at Dreamland is. Somehow, ribs you eat in a BBQ joint just seems to taste better than those in a BBQ restaurant - especially

Toyota Field The Trash Pandas are kicking off another homestand at Toyota Field on Tuesday, July 4 as they take on the Chattanooga Lookouts. Enjoy all the usual ballpark fare, activities, and energy with a patriotic touch.

After the game, a special fireworks show presented by SAIC will celebrate Independence Day with 3D fireworks.

Huntsville

Our neighbors in Huntsville are also throwing some awesome patriotic parties.

MidCity will be celebrating the Fourth of

6A

instrument and can play through any method book, level 1 and 2. A prospective member must audition for this group. Rehearsal time is Sunday, 6 to 8 p.m.

“During the Summer Session, we’ll rehearse patriotic and folk music (and other selections). We’ll end with a concert for parents and patrons on July 30 at 7 p.m. at Haven Baptist Church,” Rebecca said.

performance at Carnegie Hall, the Liberty Middle School Choir members left an indelible mark on the audience, cementing their

one with fancy white tablecloths.

I’ll take a cop in the parking in lot anytime.

Joe Hobby is a barbecue loving comedian from Alabama who wrote for Jay Leno for years. Find more of Joe’s stories on his blog: www.mylifeasahobby. blogspot.com/?m=1. Also, follow on Facebook at: Joe Hobby Comedian-Writer

July the whole weekend, June 30 through July 2 with fireworks, live music, a mullet and mustache contest, yoga, food, a watermelon carving contest, and more.

The Huntsville Museum of Art will mark the 4th of July with a community-free day. From 10 am to 5 pm, the public is welcome at no cost to enjoy the galleries. Live music will be provided at 2 pm by Constellation Brass band.

The Huntsville Botanical Garden will be hosting Armed Forces Appreciation Days on July 3 and July 4. Active and retired military are welcome to enjoy free admission.

MCYO parents should also download the ‘BAND’ app and join ‘Madison City Youth Orchestra.’ Families and conductors can use this app to communicate with each other.

“We can’t wait to meet everyone. We’ll have a blast,” Rebecca said. For more information, call 256-4793690, email Madisoncityyouthorchestra@gmail.com or visit Facebook.

place among the talented performers who have graced this iconic venue,” Mulloy said. “Their journey will undoubtedly

serve as an inspiration for future generations of musicians, reaffirming the power of music to unite, uplift and inspire.”

MCYO Continued from page

Bob Jones basketball

Two double headers in a week for skidding Trash Pandas

By CALEB ODOM caleb@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON - The Rocket City Trash Pandas battled the Montgomery Biscuits and the rain this past week at Toyota Field.

A week of baseball that featured two doubleheaders due to rain postponements early in the week left the Trash Pandas on the losing side of things in four of six games against the Biscuits (36-33).

Summer running

Heat and humidity, which are just normal aspects of summer in the south, factor into how one should workout. Page 3B

SCHOOLS

New Bob Jones coach is no stranger to BJHS basketball

By BOB LABBE bob@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON - The Bob Jones boys basketball program did not have search far and wide to find a new head coach. Bryant Starkey, assistant coach for the program since 2015, was selected to replace Luther Tiggs who retired at the end of the 20222023 school year. Starkey received the news during the May meeting of the Madison City School Board.

Off to a great start!

In its first year, the Technology Student Association or TSA for Discovery and Liberty middle schools triumphed in numerous categories at the state conference. Page 4B

“This is where I want to be,” said Starkey, “and they don’t have to worry about getting another coach for a long time.”

Soon after being born in Shreveport, La., Starkey’s family moved to Muscle Shoals where he began playing basketball at age five along with participating in football where he played tight end and was selected to play in the annual All-Star Week Game where he was listed as 6-foot-5, 240-pound while attending Muscle Shoals High. He was selected All Area/Region in both sports with the Trojans. Upon graduating in 20027, Starkey played two years of football while attending Northeast Mississippi Community College before moving to the University of North Alabama where he gave

up sports and earned a degree in Secondary Education in 2012. He earned his master’s degree in Instructional Leadership in December, 2017 from West Alabama.

“Basketball has always been my love as my father played at Northeast Mississippi, too,” added Starkey. “I studied the game, especially at Muscle Shoals under legendary head coach Dennis Connor who was a real Xs and Os type of coach. When I made the move to here at Bob Jones I learned from Graham Aderholt and then Luther as my game philosophy

Woody Anderson Ford Rocket City Awards

Local teams win at new awards program

By BOB LABBE bob@themadisonrecord.com

HUNTSVILLE - In what hopes to be an annual celebration, the inaugural Woody Anderson Ford Rocket City Awards was recently held at the MARS Music Hall inside the Von Braun Cen-

ter. The awards program was hosted by WZZN-FM, 97.7 ESPN

The Zone and presented by the Huntsville Sports Commission. Awards were handed out in numerous categories including high school, college and professional sports, plus a special Billy Neighbors Lifetime Achieve-

ment Award. In all, 15 awards were handed out in the special event.

Nominees included three from the local schools of the immediate Madison area.

Nominated for the Boys High School Team of the Year was

See AWARDS Page 2B

As of June 25, Rocket City (31-38) currently sits 7 1/2 games behind Southern League North leader Chattanooga Lookouts (38-30) and second place Tennessee Smokies (36-32) who sit 2 games out of first.

The Birmingham Barons (25-44) continue to be locked into the fourth place basement spot 13 1/2 games back.

June 20: Montgomery at Rocket City PPD

The opening act of the weeklong series against the Biscuits on Tuesday was postponed for rain with a makeup date of June 22.

June 21: Montgomery at Rocket City PPD

The wet stuff continued to cause problems as there was still no baseball at Toyota Field on Wednesday.

June 22 Doubleheader Game 1: Montgomery 5, Rocket City 3 (7 innings)

Finally there was baseball to be played on Thursday as the Trash Pandas feel in a 7-inning game.

Jeremiah Jackson gave Rocket City the 1-0 lead in the bottom of the second inning but a pair of long balls by Montgomery in the fourth and fifth handed the Biscuits the lead 3-1.

The Trash Pandas drew closer in the bottom of the fifth when Edgar Quero’s RBI single drove in Jackson to make it a one-run game.

Two more homers by the Biscuits in the seventh inning put the first game of the day out of reach.

June 22 Doubleheader Game 2: Montgomery 3, Rocket City 2 (7 innings)

The second fixture on Thursday was a tighter contest, but Montgomery still came out on top.

A 3-run home run by Junior Caminero in the top of the third inning would be all the Biscuits needed to hold off the Trash Pandas.

Rocket City built a rally in the bottom of the seventh inning with a pair of runs, but time ran out for the home team.

See TRASH PANDAS Page 2B

Bryant Starkey, left, stands with his family, wife Britany, and their daughters, Brynton, 7, and Braelynn, 5, after being announced as the new head coach of the Bob Jones boys basketball program. Starkey has been on the basketball staff of the Patriots since 2015.

The lights were shining brightly on nominees and award winners at the inaugural Woody Anderson Ford Rocket City Awards hosted by 97.7 The Zone at the MARS Music Hall at the Von Braun Center.

June 23: Rocket City 2, Montgomery 1 (10 innings)

The lone game of the day on Friday was the first victory of the series for the Trash Pandas who narrowly defeated the Biscuits by just one run.

Rocket City starting pitcher Brett Kerry went seven strong innings where he allowed one run on eight hits with seven strikeouts.

Jeremiah Jackson clubbed a line drive over the fence in the bottom of the second inning to put the Trash Pandas out front 1-0.

A double by the Biscuits’ Heriberto Hernandez knotted the game at

Awards

1-1 in the fourth.

The game moved into bonus ball in the bottom of the tenth inning and Rocket City walked off when Montgomery pitcher Nelson L. Alvarez lobbed a wild pitch that allowed Livan Soto to score.

June 24 Doubleheader Game

1: Montgomery 10, Rocket City 5 (7 innings)

Seven runs in the top of the sixth inning helped Biscuits bury the Trash Pandas in the first game of another double dip.

June 24 Doubleheader Game

2: Rocket City 6, Montgomery 5 (7 innings) The club from Madison

Continued from page 1A

the Madison Academy track squad, which won its first ever AHSAA State Championship winning the Class 3A crown with 58 points. Dante Dorsey is the program’s head coach. The Mustangs won just two gold medals in both the 4x100-meter and 4x400 relay squads, but it was the numerous other strong finishes that was the difference in the team scoring that had Madison Academy with 58 points to runner-up Flomaton’s 55. The winning effort in the 4×400, the last event of the meet, nailed down the AHSAA blue trophy, but points accumulated by other finishers put the points on the board.

“Winning the state title is unreal as it was rewarding to see these athletes celebrate winning, especially on the last event of the meet,” said Dorsey, in his eighth year as head coach at Madison Academy and starter of the program for the Mustangs. “We have 25 boys and no girls in our track program and these youngsters performing as they did is the true testament to this program. Our athletes took care of business and having so many of the boys perform well was the difference at the end of the day.”

The Sparkman High girls soccer team was nominated for its state championship effort in the Girls High School Team of the Year category. The Lady Senators posted a 21-4 record as head coach Sammuel

New coach

took its second game of the series in the Saturday late game.

Two runs in the fourth by Rocket City squared the game at 2-2, but another four runs for the Trash Pandas in the fifth inning pushed them out front 6-2.

A late 2-run surge by Montgomery in the top of the seventh inning would not be enough.

June 25: Montgomery 2, Rocket City 1 (11 innings)

The final game of the series went all the way to the eleventh inning where the Biscuits scratched across a second run to eventually secure the win.

Montgomery took the

Tidmore watched as his squad defeated Auburn 2-1 for the Class 7A title. Sparkman’s Jayda Davis hit for the two winning goals for the win and earned her the Class 7A MVP honor.

The Boys High School Athlete of the Year nominees included Parker Free of Bob Jones. He won his second straight Class 7A State Championship in singles and teamed up with Jonah Moro to claim the doubles state title. The Patriots were runner-up as a team in the State Tournament. For Free, who has been playing competitive tennis for only five years, it was his third straight appearance in the finals finishing runner-up as a freshman and now etching his name in Alabama high school athletics history with his second straight state title doing so over Samuel Sellers of Hoover. “The experience was awesome as we really had no expectations to win, but Jonah played very well as he was on top of his game,” said Free, who stands 5-foot-11 and weighs in at 155 pounds and carries a tremendous 4.44 grade point average.

Though nominated, none of the three local nominees were chosen for their respective categories. The winners announced at the June 19 ceremony included:

• North Alabama Men’s College Team of the Year – UAH Basketball

Continued from page 1A comes from those experiences.”

Straight out of college Starkey made his way to Madison where he coached basketball, football and baseball at Discovery Middle School.

After one year, he moved back to Muscle Shoals and his alma mater where he became assistant coach in both basketball and football for two seasons. The Trojans played for the State Championship in football while he was the offensive line coach. But Starkey missed the Madison area as that’s where he met his wife, Britany, and he wanted to return to an area he thought would be best for his career and his family.

Starkey and his wife, who works in the front office of Bob Jones, have been married eight years and they have two daughters, Brynton, 7, and five-year old Braelynn. They at-

tend Summit Crossing Community Church.

“There are good people here in this community and the area has everything we want,” said Starkey.

On the basketball court, Starkey is very vocal with his players and has developed great relationships with the players and their families. The current summer months have been busy for Starkey and his Patriots participating in numerous playdates while July will be focused on hitting the weight room as Starkey believes his players need to be stronger physically.

As the squad works its way into the next school year, Starkey is aware the squad will be young with only two seniors on the team roster. He will have five each in the junior and sophomore classes with what

lead 1-0 with a run in the top of the second inning and it held until the bottom of the ninth when Kyren Paris’ sacrifice fly knocked in Bryce Teodosio tied the game at 1-1.

The Biscuits went ahead with a run in the eleventh when Logan Driscoll doubled to center and Tristan Peters scored.

The Trash Pandas next hit the road to Birmingham for a series against the Barons that begins on today instead of Tuesday.

The games on Wednesday through Friday begin at 7:05 p.m. while the Sunday game is at 6:30 p.m. and the Monday affair is slated for 6:05 p.m.

• North Alabama Men’s College Athlete of the Year – Jacari Lane, UNA Basketball

• North Alabama Women’s College Team of the Year – UAH Softball

• North Alabama Women’s College Athlete of the Year – Katie Bracken, UAH Softball

• College Athlete of the Year (From the Area) – Kobe Brown, Missouri Basketball

• North Alabama College Coach of the Year – Les Stuedeman, UAH Softball

• Inspirational Athlete of the Year – Kira Lewis Jr., New Orleans Pelicans

• Pro Athlete of the Year (From the Area) – Kyle Wright, Atlanta Braves

• Billy Neighbors Lifetime Achievement Award – Ronnie Stapler

• High School Girls Team of the Year – Hazel Green Basketball

• High School Girls Coach of the Year – Tim Miller, Hazel Green Basketball

• High School Boys Team of the Year – Huntsville High Swimming

• High School Boys Athlete of the Year – Caleb Holt, Buckhorn Basketball

• High School Boys Coach of the Year – Patrick Harding, Buckhorn Basketball

he hopes will include two returning starters. “Last season we had three good players and we will have to develop that this year. I hang my hat on defense while on offense I love to push the ball and score on the transition,” said Starkey.

On most any day Starkey can be seen arriving at the school in his 1990 Chevy truck which he got from his grandfather and only has 150-thousand miles. When he’s not on the court, his hobbies are camping, playing golf and disc golf, but his real passion away from the roundball is cooking. His TV seems to be always tuned to the Food Network where he watches his favorite cooking shows.

“I’m also a huge Tennessee Titans fan,” exclaimed Starkey, who also calls “The Office” his favorite TV program.

Trash Pandas Continued from page 1A

The Trash Pandas Summer Movie Series continues on June 28 with a screening of The Sandlot at Toyota Field. Bring a blanket and sit in the outfield to enjoy the film on the videoboard, presented by Floor and Decor! Gates open at 6pm, movie starts at 7pm. RSVP at: www.milb.com/rocket-city/events/movies.

The outdoor Pickleball courts at Dublin Memorial Park will be like a beehive of action on July 3 with the Second Annual Battle of the Paddle Pickleball Tournament. The Madison Parks and Recreation Dept. is hosting the tournament beginning at 8:00 a.m. at Dublin Memorial Park.

Drew Bell

A “model” Senior Games athlete

By BOB LABBE bob@themadisonrecord.com

BIRMINGHAM - Madison’s multi-event track athlete Drew Bell was thrilled to be chosen as a model to assist in the unveiling of the track uniform for the Alabama representatives in the upcoming National Senior Games in Pittsburgh, Pa. The Alabama Senior Games held a luncheon at Jefferson State Community College in Birmingham hosting the athletes set to represent the state in the national event

scheduled for July 7-18.

“I was blessed to attend such a wonderful send-off party and I feel honored they chose me to model the track uniform for the athletes to represent Alabama at the Games,” said Drew Bell of Madison.

The head coach of the James Clemens track and cross country programs, Bell has qualified for the National Senior Games in the 10K and 5K races along with races in both the 800 and 1500-meter events. The 57-year old Bell will tackle the 10K event on July 7, the 5K

race on July 9, the 800-meter run on July 13 and the 1500-meter distance competition on July 14.

The State Senior Games Committee provided each athlete with their uniform along with team T-shirt, team Dri-Fit workout shirt, road race uniform, team-Alabama visor and water bottle.

The Committee also provide a healthy and delicious lunch.

Bell has had a remarkable 2023 as he’s won two National Championships, one national runner-up and has earned

Helpful tips for running in the summer heat

By BOB LABBE bob@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON- There are a smorgasbord of events surrounding the sport of running this summer with Fleet Feet Sports handling a good portion of what’s going on with “Summer Speed & Hills” training, “Ultra Training” and “Triathlon 201” for those wishing to tangle with a long-distance challenge. All these along with your typical run for good health must factor in the summer heat.

Heat and humidity, which are just normal aspects of summer in the south, factor into how one should workout. You should always optimize your hot-weather workouts, especially while running. Stay away from the heat of the day and always…always drink water.

“One of the biggest tips we supply to runners is to hydrate before, during and after any type of exercise, especially running this time of year,” said Suzanne Swift, owner of Fleet Feet Sports in Madison and Huntsville. “If you’re planning to exercise longer than 45 minutes outside you will need some sort of electrolyte replacement.”

Most physicians and running experts urge everyone to try and run during the coolest part of the day. Check the weather forecast and make your plans accordingly as during the summer months morning is the coolest part of the day and going on a good run that time of day can be very rewarding. It’s best to drink 20 ounces of water, stretch and then hit the road with your workout.

On really hot days like there are in the Tennessee Valley it’s best to adjust your workouts to effort versus pace. Many times, you can tell your heartrate is running high causing you to not want to push the pace. On an individual basis,

everyone should know how your body reacts to the stress of summer heat. Even golfers look out for the summer heat. When starting a workout give your body time to adjust to the surrounding conditions as many times it will take two weeks for your body to kick into its correct gear.

A must for every person exercising in the heat: make hydration a priority.

This means you can’t just think about hydration when you get thirsty. Be prepared. Bring a water bottle with you as runners can carry a specially made bottles that are easy to carry as the bottle is light and is comfortable.

Besides a timing issue that can dictate when you exercise, Swift brough up a good point. “Our local Greenways throughout Madison and Huntsville are nice and shaded and are great places to exercise. Besides, you can utilize those areas early or late in the day.”

One additional point for outdoor, summer exercise is to apply sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or higher. Along those same lines, wear a hat or visor. Actually, it’s best to wear as little apparel as possible and that’s light in color. Microfiber polyesters and cotton blends are best choices according to experts.

Physicians can’t stress enough to know the signs of heat related illnesses such as heat cramps, fainting, exhaustion, and stroke. Body temperatures can rise during exercising while being in the local heat. If the core body temperature rises to over 100-degrees, that’s the time to take action for heat prevention.

A runner may have lungs of a champion and the legs of an Olympian, but if precautions are not taken properly, all those great assets one may have can not help you escape from heat related injuries.

12 All-American performances in an array of challenging events. His most challenging event was in the XTERRA Half-Marathon Trail Run National Championships where he finished second in the 55-59 age division and qualified for the 2023 World Championships scheduled for Oct. 1 at Sugarloaf Resort in Maine.

“I met many new teammates for our Alabama team and I want to thank everyone for their continued support and encouragement,” added Bell.

Your feet are not the only part of the body that takes the heat during the summer exercise workouts. Preventing common heat-related ailments, especially during running is a key to tolerating the heat and remaining safe.

Over

Technology Student Association excels in inaugural year

By GREGG PARKER gregg@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – In its first year, the Technology Student Association or TSA for Discovery and Liberty middle schools triumphed in numerous categories at the state conference.

Originally organized in 1958, “TSA is a national career and technical student organization or CTSO that supports Career and Technical Education or CTE (nationally),” Liberty Advisor Joy Hearrington said. As part of the CTE program, TSA serves as partnering CTSO to enhance students’ learning in STEM. Liberty had 50-plus participants.

“TSA’s main goal is to give students an opportunity to develop leadership skills and explore STEM careers and opportunities through hands-on projects,” Hearrington said. “TSA’s official mission is to enhance personal development, leadership and career choices in STEM; members integrate these concepts through intra-curricular activities, competitions and related programs.”

“TSA is a requirement of the Career Tech department to retain our accreditation with the

state department,” Discovery Advisor Amanda Haynes said.

“We had over 70 registered members.”

Haynes and Hearrington both are STEM teachers for CTE studies.

TSA officers for Discovery are President Samuel Bae, Vice President Xavier Williams, Secretary Neel Gowda, Reporter Chloe McKiver, Treasurer Peter Thomasy and Sergeant-at-Arms Logan Rydbom. Liberty’s TSA officers are President Ethan Vandiver, Vice President Cayden Swinford and Secretary/Treasurer Liam Shelley.

In February, Discovery and Liberty TSA members competed in the first annual Madison City TSA Challenge and STEM Fair.

“Following the TSA Challenge, Discovery TSA students were thrilled to triumph over Liberty and win the trophy. Discovery plans to pick up the torch from Liberty and host the next challenge,” Haynes said. “Eventually, (we) hope to include Journey Middle School and other schools.”

Students can join TSA with no membership requirements. Taking a STEM classis recommend-

ed but not required.

At Liberty TSA meetings, students choose from 37 TSA projects/events and prepare for competition, Hearrington said.

“In Discovery club meetings, students are expected to create a Program of Work to create goals, related tasks and timelines.

Our Program of Work included preparations for upcoming competitions, signups for Parent Engagement Nights and creation of a Discovery TSA T-shirt,” Haynes said.

For example, DMS TSA members Jules Mixer and Raul Voltani completed setup and takedown for meetings. Discovery members attend a monthly nighttime meeting for club business.

The annual TSA State Leadership Conference usually convenes in Montgomery. “Liberty had 13 students prepare and compete in over 19 events. We had nine students place in the top three in their state events,” Hearrington said. “Our students had other students around the state encouraging them in competitions.” Liberty students won several

LDS youth graduate from four-year seminary program

By GREGG PARKER gregg@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – A group of young people, including Madison youth and others as far away as Cullman, have completed classes during four years of classes and have graduated from the scripture study.

“On May 21, 13 local youth from the North

Alabama area received graduation certificates for completing the four-year, focused scripture study,” spokesperson Tiffany M. Johnson said. “These individuals participated in a graduation ceremony and celebration on May 21 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at 1297 Slaughter Road in Madison.”

“These students included teens from the cities of Athens, Cullman, Decatur and Madison,” Johnson said.

The seminary program, which is a part of the educational focus on The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, includes eight terms that are equal to four years of classwork. The seminary classes coincide with the typical school year calendar.

Attending a seminary class includes participating in a scripture study that meets for 50 minutes on all seven days of the week. This study is outside of the students’ regular school hours.

“Most of these classes are held in the early morning hours before the typical school day starts. A few students will meet via Zoom if they are unable to travel for these early morning classes,” Johnson said.

“The books of scripture that are studied within the seminary classes in-

Liberty’s top teacher, respects open dialogue

By GREGG PARKER gregg@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – Kristen

clude the New and Old Testaments of the Holy Bible, as well as the Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants published by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,” Johnson said.

At this graduation ceremony, officials issued a total of 96 certificates of completion that were presented for all students in grades nine through 12 who completed the coursework required for this school year.

Nine of the 13 teenagers attended the graduation ceremony. These students included Addy Beck of East Limestone, Erika Byington of Athens, Breonna Capps of Athens, Audrey Hight of Decatur, Joseph Jimenez of Madison, Zack Mendenhall of Madison, Ryan Rasmussen of Madison, Ryan Robertson of Decatur and Heather Schnobrich of Athens.

Kuenn Drake serves as Stake President in Madison for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Brown sets clear expectations and maintains classroom discipline yet promotes a low-pressure atmosphere so students feel comfortable expressing their ideas. Brown is “Teacher of the Year” at Liberty Middle School.

Brown began her career as an educator at Monrovia Middle School with Madison County Schools. For four years, she taught seventh-grade science.

“For the past four years, I’ve had the privilege to be a part of Madison City Schools teaching at Liberty. I have the pleasure of teaching seventh-grade life science, introducing students to the fascinating world of biology,” Brown said.

She also teaches seventh- and eighth-grade science electives, “which cover fascinating topics and provide students with a broader understanding of scientific concepts,” she said.

“My teaching philosophy revolves around creating a positive and inclusive learning environment where trust, safety and respect are fundamental.

I believe in setting high standards and expectations for all students, both academically and behaviorally,” Brown said.

She provides a structured classroom setting

while allowing flexibility for individual needs and learning styles. “I strive for active engagement, critical thinking and open dialogue among students,” Campbell said.

Brown takes pride in a pilot program, ACES, she launched for short-term academic support to struggling students. “Students regain momentum in their studies and develop effective strategies for assignment management,” she said.

Students work in lengthy ACES sessions so Campbell arranged for snacks and free dinner, eliminating parents’ financial burden. “ACES has evolved into a fully-funded initiative, thanks to support of school staff and generous contributions from community members, organizations and businesses,” Brown said.

Brown grew up in Curry, a hamlet near Smith Lake. Her Licensed Practical Nursing Certification from Bevill State Community College unknowingly led to her focus on science and education.

“Building upon this foundation, I (attended) Jacksonville State University where I received my bachelor’s degree in science and discovered my love for research,” Brown said. “Motivated by passion for science and a leap of faith, I furthered my academic pursuits and ob-

the years, many animals have broken world records by performing tricks. Dogs, cats, rabbits, parrots, and even guinea pigs are all part of the Guinness World Records family. However, for the first time ever, a cow has joined their ranks. Ghost, a four-year-old Charolais cow owned by Megan Reimann from Nebraska, USA, has set a new record for the most tricks performed by a cow in one minute, achieving a total of 10.

Members of the Technology Student Association from Liberty and Discovery middle schools competed at the state conference in Montgomery. The TSA won numerous awards in their first year of activity.

See TSA Page 8B

Graduates in a four-year scripture study with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints included Ryan Robertson, front from left, Joseph Jimenez, Zack Mendenhall and Ryan Rasmussen. Audrey Hight, back from left, Addy Beck, Erika Byington, Breonna Capps and Heather Schnobrich.

Kristen Brown, at center, accepts her $500 prize check as “Teacher of the Year” at Liberty Middle School from Eric Terrell, from left, Assistant Superintendent of Madison City Schools; MCS Superintendent Dr. Ed Nichols; Liberty Principal Shannon Brown; and Liberty Assistant Principal Dr. Ambra Hamilton.

A look at the history of 21 Front Street

By JOHN P. RANKIN Madison Historian

MADISON - Known locally for many years as the Dennis and Charles Opheim House at 21 Front Street, this property has a rich history in the town of Madison. The place encompasses Lots 17, 18, 29, and 30 of the original town plat designations, reaching from Front Street back to Arnett Street along the west side of Hobson Alley, better known as Buttermilk Alley, but originally named Clay Street. Arnett Street itself has likewise gone through several name changes in the last 166 years, but that is another story for another time.

The Clay connection of the property and the street name goes back to 1860, when Theodorick S. Clay and his wife Jane (or Jennie) E. Clay purchased the four lots from Madison’s founder, James Clemens. The property had been purchased by Clemens from the State of Alabama in 1854, probably because his son Jeremiah was a United States Senator for Alabama and no doubt had early knowledge of the route planned by the Memphis & Charleston Railroad through the area. Clemens laid out a town plat of 55 lots to be sold along the railroad to develop a town to be named as “Clemens Depot” as his namesake. He sold the first lot in the town on February 13, 1857, but he died in 1860 after selling only 15 of the lots. Clemens was 83 years old at the time of his death, and his son Jeremiah had moved to Memphis but also dying in 1865 before the Clemens estate was settled. The estate was tied up in court for years, but by October of 1868 the executors of the Clemens estate sold most of the remainder at public auction.

Among the early purchasers before Clemens’ passing were Thomas J. Clay (who bought the second lot from Clemens) and his brother Theodorick S. Clay.

During the years from 1857 to 1870, Theodorick purchased 8 lots in the town, while Thomas bought 5 of the lots from Clemens and his excecutors. However, in 1871 Thomas sold two of his lots to his brother Theodorick. Both of these brothers were listed in census records as merchants, as was their father John Clay of New Market, but Thomas ran newspaper ads that he was also an auctioneer, holding auctions in his house every Saturday morning. He also operated Madison’s first post office from his storefront house. It was Theodorick and his wife Jane E. Clay that deeded land to the town for the alley on the east side of their house. That is the alley known today as Buttermilk Alley, but the deed carried the stipulation that it be named Clay Street. Probably because the deed boundaries were inconsistently specified in an impossible and unenforceable manner, the city never officially named it as Clay Street.

Lots 17, 18, 29, and 30, hosting the family residence where Theodorick and Jennie Clay had lived on land purchased in 1860 from James Clemens, were sold by Jennie into the ownership of the real

estate broker partnership of James E. Williams and James B. Bronaugh. Jennie had sold the lots to them while living in Hamilton County, Tennessee, on Dec. 1 of 1906, after Theodorick had died on July 3 of that year. Both Jennie and Theodorick are buried in the old section of the Madison City Cemetery on the south side of Mill Road. On March 27 of 1907, Williams & Bronaugh sold the same lots to Nina Ward Burton and her husband John Mullins Burton, who thereupon became next-door neighbors of Jim Williams.

Nina Burton’s parents were David Crocket Ward and Amanda (“Ida”) Tennessee Horton. After David died, Ida married Edward Hazzard East of Nashville, Tennessee, who became governor of that state in 1865. Thus, Burton’s mother-in-law was the wife of a wealthy governor of Tennessee. Nina (1862-1932) bore three children to John Mullins Burton, according to the 1910 census, but only two were living when the census was taken, and one of those apparently died soon afterward, leaving only daughter Frances (“Fannie”) East Burton, who was born in 1889 and died 1975. She is buried in the new section of the city cemetery on the north side of Mill Road under the name Fannie Bradford because she married Thomas Logan Bradford on Independence Day of 1906.

John Mullins (1864–1924) was a son of John Winston Burton, Madison’s first pharmacist. From 1871 J. W. Burton owned and operated a drugstore where the Hughes Hardware store was in business until recently, at the junction of Church Street with Main Street. In 1903

J. M. Burton bought out his father’s interest and operated the pharmacy until 1908 when he partnered with George Washington Wise to open a new drugstore at 200 Main Street. That building still has the sign “Humphrey Hughes Rexall Drug Store” on the brick. It is the store that George Walton (“Doc”) Hughes rented as a pharmacy from 1925 until 1972, with the town’s telephone switchboard and some apartments on the second floor. The building remained in the ownership of the Burton-Bradford family until 1975.

Fannie East Burton’s husband Thomas Logan Bradford (another pharmacist) produced two daughters with her before his death by suicide at age 35 in 1918. Fannie and her daughters Juanita (b. 1908) and Emma (b. 1909) then moved from their house at 306 Church Street into the house of her parents at 21 Front Street. When John Mullins Burton died, his Last Will and Testament stipulated that the Burton & Wise Pharmacy should be sold, with the proceeds going to his partner George Washington Wise, who had suffered great losses in the business. The will left his wife Nina the lot behind the store and noted that she owned “considerably more property” than he did, so she had “no need for other provisions”. The will further stipulated that “My daughter Mrs. Fannie Bradford has been very unkind and

inconsiderate of me”, so he left her nothing. However, he did specify that the remainder of his estate be passed to his two granddaughters, Juanita and Emma Bradford, the children of Fannie.

Another stipulation of the will was that “neither their mother, Fannie Bradford, nor their grandmother, Nina Burton, nor their great uncle, Gus Ward of Nashville, Tennessee, would have anything to do with the control and management of the property” left to his grandchildren. Burton’s will specified that T. G. Riddle and G. W. Wise should be trustees for his granddaughters in this respect, and it designated Matthew Harvey Anderson and Hermon Humphrey as Executors. The will was witnessed by L. S. Hager and Clifton Balch.

Hermon Humphrey died in 1925, and his

widow, Cora Mae Lewis Humphrey, became Administrator of the 1924 will. As a final edict, it was stipulated that if any beneficiary objected to its probate or aided in any way with contest of the provisions of the will, then they were to be “absolutely barred and cut off from any share” of the estate.

Fannie, while living in her father’s house, took care of her mother in her later years. She also became the Madison reporter for the Huntsville Times newspaper, but apparently during her lifetime she alienated her father and had a husband who chose to kill himself rather than face the problems of business and family life. Sometimes the lives of those perceived to be well-established citizens and leading families are not tranquil lives out of the public eye.

Early 1900s postcard

Elementary students walk past the house at 21 Front Street in downtown Madison during a walking tour of downtown Madison in 2021 (left). Girl Scout Finley Koswoski and Bailey Erickson are pictured right in front of the house in period costumes to promote the app, which was completed as part of Finley’s Girl Scout Gold project.

Summer programs are going strong in Madison City Schools, with nearly 600 students enrolled in engaging but fun learning activities lead by dedicated teachers and staff. Madison City Board of Education members and Superintendent Dr. Ed Nichols today toured elementary and secondary campuses where the teaching, learning and fun are taking place. They observed teachers leading lesson plans and mingled with students who eagerly welcomed the adult visitors. Instruction leaders gave brief overviews of programs in math, reading, EL (English Learners) ESY (Special Ed) and other disciplines at the respective campuses. Kids were quick to show off their knowledge, and it was not uncommon to see some grab the visiting admins by the hand to lead them around.

TSA Continued from page 4B

awards:

• CAD Foundations -Joel Yang, second place.

• Career Prep -Harshtha Chander, first. Jake Culligan, third place. (job interview, resume/cover letter).

• Challenging Technology Issues -- Epiphany Kendrick and Harshtha Chander, first. Joseph Lee and Joel Yang, second. (debate)

• Cybersecurity - Liam Shelley, first. Cayden Swinford, second. (test)

• Digital Photography -- Laya Gowder, third. (portfolio and on-site challenge)

• Essays in Technology -- Epiphany Kendrick, second.

• Forensic Technology -- Laya Gowder and Harshtha Chander, first. (fingerprint, DNA and document analysis)

• Off the Grid -- Joel Yang, third. (sustainable architecture) Discovery students in places 1-3 at state can advance to National TSA competition:

• Catapult -- Ghaida Ab-

Brown

dellaoui, Zackary Duclos, Lyra Wilson and Jakin Long, first.

• Coding -- Clayton Bruns, Cindy Chen and Logan Rydbom, second.

• Children’s Stories -- Emily Krum and Cindy Chen, first; Vedanth Gopinathan and Neel Gowda, third.

• Structural Engineering -- John Gabriel Wheelock and Trenton Holcombe, first.

• Flight -- Jakin Long, first; Lyra Wilson, third.

“I’ve never started a club before,” Haynes said.

“It was a daunting task, but, looking back, it was an incredible year with tons of hours of labor by myself, colleagues and ambitious students.”

“As a STEM-focused CTE teacher, TSA offers opportunities to further expand students’ skills and knowledge,” Hearrington said about serving as sponsor. “Also, they are a great group of students to work with because they enjoy learning and exploring new challenges.”

Continued from page 4B

tained a master’s degree in secondary science from Alabama A&M University.” Kristen’s “incredibly loving and supporting husband,” Dawson Brown, works as an accountant.

The Browns have five children: Allie, Dawson Jr., Caden, Tom and Kate Brown.

Allie is majoring in mechanical engineering with a minor in mathematics at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Dawson, Caden and Tom attend Midtown Elementary School; Kate attends Rainbow Elementary School.

A plant enthusiast, Kristen loves indoor gardening. “Most people don’t know I’m an avid Candy Crush player and current-

ly on level 5238 . . . I’ve played it for a really long time,” she said.

“I’m passionate about serving underserved students and vulnerable populations,” Brown said. She has been developing a Language Morphology program to improve scientific literacy for all students. Brown’s program enhances vocabulary and comprehension to better engage scientific concepts.

“For some students and their families, life happens out of nowhere; they hit a rough patch. The positive impact on students and their families for having short-term academic support during these times is incredulous,” Brown said.