The Madison Record - July 21, 2021

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Local school group’s hard work pays off

I-565 progress Motorists say travel westbound on a 7-mile stretch of I-565 has improved with the opening of a new third lane, but eastbound may not fully open up for another week.

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A two year effort to have the sweet potato named the state vegetable is rewarded with Governor’s signature, capitol tour

By STAFF REPORTS MADISON - In a recent issue of The Madison Record, we brought you the story of a home-school group in the Madison area that made history by successfully working to get the sweet potato named the state vegetable. This week we have a “sweet” update to their story.

Since 2011, Kristin Smith of Harvest has shared her love of history and government by teaching home-schooled families through her group, The Learning Exchange, and through the co-op extension of HOPE Christian Academy. She was See SWEET POTATO Page 2A

Kristin Smith and several students from The Learning Exchange stand with Gov. Kay Ivey and other lawmakers.

Gold Award Olivia Downs earned the Gold Award, the pinnacle of honor in Girl Scouts, by improving Camp Trico, which holds great sentimental and educational value to Olivia and her peers. Page 5A

EVENTS

Chief Johnny Gandy

The ‘Pinta’, a replica of Christopher Columbus’ famous ship, is docked at Ditto Landing Marina until her departure on Monday July 26. While in port, the general public is invited to visit the ship for a walk-aboard, self-guided tour. Page 6A

Karl Fernandez addresses the MCS school board after being approved as Rainbow’s new principal.

Fernandez named Rainbow Elementary’s new principal

By STAFF REPORTS

Let The Be Music Let There Be Music continues to support the arts in Madison and to raise funds to help construction of a performance pavilion in Home Place Park, the new outdoor amphitheater.

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FIND JOBS INSIDE: There are plenty of jobs within today’s classifieds pages.

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MADISON – Karl Fernandez, assistant principal for Mill Creek Elementary, is the new principal for Rainbow Elementary.

The Madison City Board of Education approved the appointment at its July 15 meeting. He replaces Brian Givens, who accepted a middle school job in another district.

Addressing the school board, Fernandez pledged to work with faculty and staff in creating a positive culture. He promised to dedicate himself to leading students to be “involved active learners who work hard, think critically and creatively and communicate effectively.”

In recommending him for RES Principal, Superintendent Dr. Ed Nichols said Fernandez “never missed a beat” when he took on the school’s leadership while the principal was away handling some major health issues for her aging parents.

“He stepped right in to taking care of the Mill Creek family. He is dedicated to the kids in the school and he did an excellent job” demonstrating his leadership abilities.

About Karl Fernandez Fernandez, originally from the Pacific Island of Guam, took up residence here in the Huntsville area in 1999 as his father was in the U.S. Army. His passion for education was realized at a very young age and was pursued through his undergraduate attendance to Calhoun Community College and Athens State University, followed by his graduate attendance at the University of West Alabama, Samford University, and now the University of Alabama, where he is currently working on his doctorate degree in Instructional Leadership.

Fernandez began his career in education in 2008 as a science teacher at Sparkman High in Madison County, teaching Marine Science, Project Lead the Way’s Human Body Systems, Forensic Science, Honors Anatomy & Physiology, and AP Biology.

He joined the Mill Creek family in 2016, where he was excited to serve as Assistant Principal. He has a dog: a great dane named Reina, and raises backyard chickens. He enjoys traveling, kayaking, and going to the beach.

16 pages • 2 sections

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Madison’s new Chief of Police considers himself “blessed” to be in Madison

By GREGG PARKER Gregg.Parker@madisoncountyrecord.com

MADISON - Johnny Gandy is acclimating himself to a new job, his fellow employees and the pulse of Madison’s day-to-day life as Police Chief for Madison Police Department. Last Monday was his first full day on the job.

Although still invested in law enforcement, Gandy had decided to retire from the Virginia Beach Police Department. He considered moving to Alabama, Florida or Texas.

Learning that Madison was recruiting a chief, Gandy researched the city. “I found Madison to be a city with lots to offer and seemed an ideal place to live,” Gandy said. When he interviewed, Gandy felt immediately at home and decided Madison was the place where he wanted to live. “I am blessed to be selected.”

Madison and Virginia Beach share similarities: rapid growth and associated growing pains, ‘overnight’ building of subdivisions on farmland, popuSee GANDY Page 2A

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The Pinta

2A • THE RECORD

July 21, 2021

Sweet Potato

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leading a class through Alabama History in 2019 when they discovered the state had not named an official state vegetable. This sparked a lesson in civics which spanned over two years and included two different classes of home-schoolers.

The lesson culminated last Month when, on Thursday, July 8, Smith and 13 home-schooled students stood with Governor Kay Ivey, along with Senators Garlan Gudger and Tom Butler, and Representatives Randall Shedd, Andy Whitt, and Parker Moore on the front steps of the Capitol where the governor signed the law designating the sweet potato as Alabama’s official state vegetable. Governor Ivey congratulated the students on their “good work”.

The home-schoolers also met and were praised by Speaker of the House Mac McCutcheon and were honored to hear words of wisdom and encouragement from Senators Gudg-

er and Butler and Representative Whitt.

Senator Gudger took the class on a VIP tour of The State House where they were allowed to visit both chambers of the state legislature. The group was invited to tour the Capitol building where they met with Secretary of State John Merrill, who also congratulated the students, spoke about his position, and took questions from the students.

The class was treated to lunch by Hunter McBrayer, the Executive Director of ALFA’s Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association, and John Allen Nichols, ALFA’s Agriculture Counsel. While in Montgomery, the class also received VIP treatment at The State Archives, toured a civil rights museum, picnicked at Riverfront Park, visited Dexter Avenue Baptist Church, and stopped at the First White House of the Confederacy.

The students includ-

ed Kyra Smith, Matthew Ray, Kiley Ray, Kaleb Ray, Lawren Wright, Skyler Williams, Luke Wagner, Andrew Silvertooth, Emma Burnette, Landon Burnette, Lillian Parry, Caroline Parry, and Si’Mya Hampton.

“It was incredible to see where our state laws are made,” Matthew Ray, 16, said about the student’s trip to the state capital.

Kyra Smith, 16, added, “ It was exciting to see all of the history that we read about in class!”

Senior Kiley Ray, 18, who will be a Freshman at Jacksonville State this fall said, “I loved getting to meet our elected officials and inquiring about their likes and dislikes about their job.”

“I felt famous with all of the people we were able to meet. The whole trip put into focus how much of a change regular people (even kids) can make with some hard work,” Andrew Silvertooth, 11, said.

Andrew also received an

invitation from Representative Parker Moore to work as a Page in the House of Representatives next session.

Andrew’s mother, Jennifer, commented, “The trip to Montgomery was the culmination of the hard work of two classes and the amount of doors it is opening for our kids to pursue their dreams and continue learning about our state government is amazing! I think being there and seeing it all in person really added some perspective that these kids will remember for their entire life. They would never get education from strictly being in a classroom.”

The group also received statewide and national exposure with a feature on Simply Southern TV. The show premiered locally on July 11 on WAFFTV 48 in Huntsville and was rebroadcast on national cable network RFDTV the following Wednesday.

ble. Something was always being dug up to lay pipes and/or utility lines. Everywhere suddenly seemed more crowded . . . (as) I’m sure Madison residents are experiencing now,” Gandy said.

Like Madison, Virginia Beach is diverse in race and cultures. Both cities are residential communities for a nearby metropolitan area, have large military populations and support active-duty military and veterans, while supporting a mix of industrial, business, technology, residential and agricultural areas, Gandy said.

Police departments in Madison and Virginia Beach are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies or CALEA. “Both agencies are committed to excellence and filled with very hard-working, competent and intelligent officers

who are selflessly dedicated to providing the best services to their respective communities,” Gandy said.

Any differences? Location and size. Virginia Beach is on the coast and covers 500 square miles with a population of 460,000. Madison is landlocked and much smaller.

In Madison Police Department, “it’s too early to tell what changes need to be made,” Gandy said.

He is evaluating internal processes and service delivery for any needed improvements. He will look to possibly hire nonsworn positions to alleviate multiple tasks that patrol officers and investigators perform.

“Madison Police Department is excellent with community outreach and has implemented excellent programs, such as Kids Camp, Text to Protect and rape defense.

I don’t want to change these but instead look for more opportunities,” Gandy said.

“I’m a military ‘brat’ so I have no hometown,” Gandy said. He lived longest in Virginia Beach.

Majoring in criminal justice, he earned a bachelor’s degree at Saint Leo University in St. Leo, Fla. and a master’s degree from Troy University.

In a bit of personal trivia … While in the U.S. Air Force, Gandy was involved “albeit in a minor way” in filming a James Bond movie.

His wife Debra-Lynn is originally from Orange County, Calif. and works as a court reporter. They own Tigger, an Old English Sheepdog.

You can read more about Chief Johnny Gandy in the August issue of Madison Living Magazine (www.madisonlivingmagazine.com)

Gandy lation sprawl, demands on city infrastructure.

Circa 1990, Virginia Beach saw arrival of Stihl Corporation, Lillian Vernon and BRAC realignments. “Traffic was terri-

Welcome neighbor.

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While we take care of you and your family, we pledge to treat you like a member of our family.

24/7 Emergency services • Cardiology services • Medical services • Surgical services • Intensive Care Unit • Award-winning maternity services • Imaging, lab and therapy services •

MCSO ASKING PUBLIC’S HELP IDENTIFYING HARVEST CATALYTIC CONVERTER THEFT SUSPECT - Madison County Sheriff’s Office investigators are asking for the public’s help with identifying the suspect pictured and/ or vehicle he was driving. According to the MCSO, the suspect stopped in the parking lot of Refuge Church in the Harvest community and removed a catalytic converter from a Chevrolet S-10 pickup truck. The provided photograph is the best they have at this time. This suspect is suspected of numerous other related converter thefts in the county.

Investigators say they have noticed an uptick in catalytic converter thefts from vehicles parked at local businesses throughout Madison County. If anyone has any information please contact Inv. S. Finley at (256) 533-8847 or sfinley@ madisoncountyal.gov.

Madison Weather with Steve Norris

Stormy weather to continue this week

(256) 817-2012 • madisonALhospital.org

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By STEVE NORRIS MADISON - We have been in a stormy weather pattern and I don’t see that changing much for the week ahead with threats of thunderstorms each afternoon at 50% or more. High temperatures will continue to be below normal for this time of year with readings mostly in the mid-to-upper 80s and just an occasional 90 thrown in.

There are indications that the heat wave may try to move into Northern Alabama over the next few weeks but nothing for sure at this time.

If you’ve been noticing that it looks hazy on some days and we’ve had some lovely red sunsets, some smoke from Western and Canadian wildfires has drifted over our area from time to time.

We have a full moon coming up on Fri-

Staff Directory French Salter, General Manager, 256-722-6677 french.salter@theredstonerocket.com

Madison County Record is published each Wednesday by Madison Publications, LLC, P.O. Box 859 Madison, AL 35758.

John Few Editor 256-772-6677 john.few@madisoncountyrecord.com Gregg L. Parker News Writer gregg.parker@madisoncountyrecord.com Bob Labbe Sports Writer bob0873@yahoo.com

day and it is known as the Buck Moon reflecting the time of year when new deer antlers begin to grow. Make a note on your calendar that one of the biggest meteor showers of the year is coming the night of August 12th and I will tell you more over the next week or two.

I recently discovered that Thomas Jefferson, one of the founding fathers of the Declaration of Independence and the third president of the United States was very interested in the weather!

Jefferson took daily weather readings around Williamsburg Virginia and on July 4th 1776, he went to a local Merchant to purchase a new thermometer before he went to sign the Declaration of Independence. I thought that was really cool!

You can reach me anytime at weather1@charter.net

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July 21, 2021

THE RECORD • 3A

Jamall and Rashad King were arrested in the bust. Both men are from Birmingham.

MSCO: Large drug bust made involving multiple agencies

By STAFF REPORTS

Work continued on paving I-565 in preparation of opening additional eastbound lane.

Paving for I-565 eastbound to finish in coming weeks LIMESTONE COUNTY - Motorists say travel westbound on a 7-mile stretch of I-565 has improved with the opening of a new third lane, but the highway’s eastbound traffic will remain two lanes in Limestone County for at least another week.

The three westbound lanes of Interstate 565 between I-65 and a quarter mile west of County Line Road are open to motorists and largely complete, according to Seth Burkett, spokesperson for the Alabama Department of Transportation’s North Region.

“All paving except the final surface layer has been completed on all lanes of the westbound roadway,” Burkett said. “Final paving on the westbound lanes will begin after eastbound paving is complete and take another two weeks or so.”

Contract workers are in the process of paving the eastbound lanes and are expected to complete this portion of the project once weather has permitted them to put in “a week of good work,” which has yet to be

achieved, Burkett said.

A final surface layer will then be paved over the course of two weeks’ worth of work, after which all three eastbound lanes will open to motorists.

“The additional outside eastbound lane will not be opened until final paving is complete,” he said.

Even after all three lanes are open in both directions, finishing touches on the project such as striping may not be finished until late summer or the fall.

Burkett said rain and cold snaps since mid-May have proved to be a hurdle for workers paving the widened lanes.

“Despite excellent progress on the widening work last year, so far this year, weather has often been inconducive to paving, making progress on resurfacing sporadic,” Burkett said. “Only in the last couple months did it start consistently warming up enough for paving with some regularity, but rain has continued to be a problem.”

Several motorists at gas stations by the Hudson Memorial Bridge

who use I-565 said the widened and newly paved westbound lanes have relieved traffic delays.

Ellen Nance, 66, of Decatur, takes I-565 to visit her niece in Madison once a week and said the third lane addition has greatly improved her commute on the interstate. “(During) the busy time of rush hour going back and forth to work and ... going to visit somebody in Madison, on the way back you had to go bumper-to-bumper,” Nance said of the route before the widening.

Once both directions are paved, all lanes will open to motorists, but workers will still need to finish striping the lanes.

“The new pavement must be allowed to cure prior to final striping, so it’s possible final striping takes place in early fall, if not this summer,” Burkett said.

Workers are paving the roadways from 6 p.m.-6 a.m. from Sunday through Thursday, and the project’s final deadline is set for Dec. 17.

“It looks as though the project will still come in well ahead of that date,” Burkett said.

SERVE DAY - As part of Serve Day, a movement brings together hundreds of churches in dozens of countries to help the local community, volunteers from Building Church and the Madison Elementary School PTA spent last Saturday morning raking and spreading mulch throughout the MES school playground. “We are thankful for our partnership with Building Church and for all of the support that they provide for our school and appreciate all that our PTA does for our school as well,” a social media post from the school stated. “A big thank you goes out to our plant manager, Mr. Gray, for moving the mounds of mulch to various areas to help prepare for the spreading.” Here are some photos the school shared of the volunteer effort.

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By STAFF REPORTS

MADISON CO.– A traffic stop by the Madison County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit, Madison County Sheriff’s Office K9 Unit, FBI Safe Streets Task Force, DEA, and the Madison County Sheriff’s Office Street Crimes Unit resulted in a large seizure of drugs, cash, and a stolen handgun, authorities said last week.

According to the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, the traffic stop occurred in North Huntsville. Investigators located over 112 grams (4oz) fentanyl, 3 grams of ice, approximately $6,000 cash, and one Smith & Wesson handgun. The handgun was stolen from Shelby County, Al. Jamall King, 29 was arrested for Drug TrafSee BUST Page 8A

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July 21, 2021

With entertainment opportunities growing, Huntsville seeks full-time music officer

By STAFF REPORTS HUNTSVILLE – The City of Huntsville is now accepting applications for Huntsville Music Officer, a full-time position geared toward anyone with a vision for transforming the Rocket City into a must-see music city.

The City is in a prime position to draw regional and national music fans who want to catch a show at the Mark C. Smith Concert Hall at the Von Braun Center or the new Mars Music Hall. At MidCity, construction is underway on an 8,000-seat outdoor amphitheater expected to attract artists from a myriad of genres.

A wide-ranging music audit performed by Sound Diplomacy in 2019 recommended both the Music Officer position and the nine-member Music Board.

The audit, approved by the Huntsville City Council, is an integral part of Mayor Tommy Battle’s Music Initiative.

“Music is essential to not only our quality of life, but also our local economy,” Mayor Battle said. “No matter who you are or what your background is, music is a universal language that unites us all. There’s no reason why Huntsville can’t be a top destination for musicians and music lovers, and we

believe the Music Officer will help us get to that level.”

Kate Durio with Sound Diplomacy said the full-time Music Officer position will set Huntsville apart from other cities because it’s the first of its kind in the U.S. She added that even though the Rocket City has enjoyed success, fueled by grassroot efforts, the potential for added support and recognition will be significant.

“This leadership by example builds on the long-standing and well-known history of Huntsville as a place for innovation,” Durio said. “With this sustained focus at the local government level, it doubles-down on the City supporting its music industry though the support, promotion and development of the music ecosystem.”

City leaders anticipate significant interest in the position but want someone who is not only a creative thinker, but also understands the value of Huntsville’s music scene in both cultural and economic terms.

“The Music Audit offered a road map, but the Music Officer will need to work very closely with the Music Board to make adjustments and guide implementation,” said Dennis Madsen, Huntsville’s manager of Urban & Long-Range Planning.

“They’ll need to develop their

At MidCity, construction is underway on an 8,000-seat outdoor amphitheater expected to attract artists from a myriad of genres. own strong relationships with organizations like the Convention and Visitors Bureau and Arts Huntsville, with venues large and small, and especially with artists and industry professionals.”

Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in music, communications, marketing, public relations or a related field from an accredited college or university and have at least

New airlines welcomed with fanfare to Huntsville International Airport

By STAFF REPORTS

HUNTSVILLE – A new airlines was welcomed into the Huntsville International Airport for the first time on Thursday.

New “low fare” Breeze Airways launched non-stop service from Huntsville International Airport (HSV) to Charleston, SC (CHS), New Orleans, LA (MSY), and on July 22 for Tampa, FL (TPA) as part of its initial air service launch.

These new flights begin this morning with Breeze Airlines service to Charleston and New Orleans with a special “champagne launch” on the nose of the arriving Embraer 190 jet airliner with Breeze Airways CEO David Neeleman, Huntsville International Airport (HSV) CEO Rick Tucker and local dignitaries participating.

“Huntsville, Alabama is booming, and it is exciting news that Breeze Airways is officially launching their non-stop service today out of Huntsville International Airport,” said Governor Ivey. “We continue showing the world that Alabama is not only open for business, but that it is the best place to do business.”

“Huntsville’s dramatic growth and recurring designation as one of the best places to live in the country positions us to attract more residents and visitors. With this exciting investment from

Breeze Airways, we can expand our airline capacity to reach even more destinations,” stated Mayor Tommy Battle.

“We are pleased today to officially launch Breeze Airways service at HSV, said Mark McDaniel, HSV Board Chairman. “The announcement of Breeze Airways is an economic development announcement as important as any other because transportation is the key to economic growth and prosperity. Our airport is the connection to other areas of the country and business opportunities found in those areas.”

“We are excited about the new service and expect our community will respond to the new ‘Seriously Nice’ and ultra-low fare air service by taking advantage of the flexibility offered by flying and supporting Breeze Airways,” commented HSV CEO Rick Tucker.

For HSV service, Breeze will utilize the E190 jets seating 108 passengers with two-by-two configuration, so there are no middle seats. Seat assignments start from $10, but Family Seating is free for families traveling with children 12 and under. The charge to travel with a pet in the cabin is $75. Streaming inflight entertainment to personal devices will be available on each flight, provided by Global Eagle.

For more information, go to www.flybreeze.com.

U.S. Army awards BAE Systems $62 million for next-generation missile warning system

By STAFF REPORTS HUNTSVILLE — BAE Systems has received a $62 million contract from the U.S. Army to deliver the next-generation 2-Color Advanced Warning System (2CAWS). The system provides aircrews with advanced threat detection capabilities, improving survivability and mission effectiveness in contested environments. This latest award is part of the Limited Interim Missile Warning System (LIMWS) and encompasses the third of four production lots.

“We are excited to leverage our expertise on Quick Reaction Capability programs to support the U.S. Army – protecting their aircraft and the aircrews who fly them,” said Chris Austin, director of Threat Detection Solutions at BAE Systems. “2CAWS offers new capabilities that are revolutionizing protection, for

both the enduring and future U.S. Army fleets.”

Optimized for size, weight, and power, 2CAWS features an open system architecture, two-color infrared sensors for increased range, and a fiber optic A-kit for faster data transmission. The system processor serves as the high-bandwidth digital backbone of the system. It houses advanced machine learning missile warning algorithms specifically designed for complex, high-clutter environments and rapid threat updates. 2CAWS is compatible with existing U.S. Army aircraft survivability equipment, including pilot interfaces and countermeasure systems, allowing for faster installation and integration timelines.

Work on the LIMWS program will be conducted in BAE Systems’ state-of-theart facilities in Huntsville, Alabama, and Nashua, New Hampshire.

five years of experience working in a music, events or related entertainment industry.

The Music Officer will oversee strategic planning initiatives outlined in the Music Audit while also supporting the City’s existing music sector.

The officer will also identify, implement and increase music-related economic opportunities while being a primary point of contact for local, regional

and national stakeholders. Candidates will serve as a liaison between with both government officials and those in the music industry.

“The ideal candidate will have to have a lot of initiative,” Madsen said.

Visit HuntsvilleAL/Jobs to learn more about working for the City of Huntsville. The posting will be active until 6 p.m.

Monday, Aug. 23.

MIDTOWN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL - Madison City Schools shared some photos showing progress as construction of Midtown Elementary continues toward completion for the 2021 school start this month. MCS Superintendent Dr. Ed Nichols said construction is on track for the start of school. The $34 million school is located along Wall Triana next to Kroger. A second school, Journey Middle School, will be located behind the district’s central office on Celtic Drive. It will be completed in time for the 2022-23 school year. Madison residents overwhelmingly approved a 12-mill property tax increase in September 2019 to fund the construction of the schools, plus additions at Bob Jones and James Clemens.

COMMUNITY

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July 21, 2021

Local author explores infant care, sleep routines in new book

By GREGG PARKER Gregg.Parker@madisoncountyrecord.com

To qualify for the Gold Award in Girl Scouts, Olivia Downs prepared four sites for hammock camping at Camp Trico, a Girl Scout camp on Lake Guntersville.

Olivia Downs earns Girl Scouts’ Gold Award with hammock sites at camp

By GREGG PARKER Gregg.Parker@madisoncountyrecord.com MADISON – Olivia Downs earned the Gold Award, the pinnacle of honor in Girl Scouts, by improving Camp Trico, which holds great sentimental and educational value to Olivia and her peers.

“Going to Girl Scout camp with my troop has always been the best thing for me about being a Girl Scout,” Downs said. “We’ve been camping since kindergarten and first grade. Now, we’re in high school or have graduated.” In Troop 926, leaders are Jean Downs and Andrea Johnson.

Downs’ project has given a safe environment for outdoor progression, an important facet of Scouting.

She started work when COVID-19 restrictions limited capacity for sleeping areas at Scout camps. Occupancy basically was cut in half, but her project helped increase capacity. The Girl Scout Council wanted hammock sites near existing camping for easy access to bathhouses, cook shelters and cabins.

In addition, Downs taught classes on advanced camping, like backpacking and hammock camping. “I like to share my experiences so they can have as much fun as I did learning to try new things,” Downs said.

Luckily, a small team of relatives working with Downs avoided most COVID-19 constraints. Downs created four designated hammock sites at Camp Trico on Lake Guntersville. “The

new sites added at least 60 places to safely hang hammocks,” Downs said.

Downs also prepared packets of educational materials: “Hammock Camping Basics,” “Backpacking Hygiene” and “Leave No Trace.” She successfully recruited three troops to create hammock sites at other properties.

The project required 101.2 hours, with most time needed for site clearing and developing educational materials.

“We used lots of hand tools and chainsaws to clear sites. I marked each tree (for) hammocks and added signage,” Downs said.

“Girl Scouts now (can) try new camping experiences in a safe environment,” Downs said. Many girls are using the hammocks or “just hanging out. (The sites) will be enjoyed for a long time.”

A junior at James Clemens High School, Downs previously earned Bronze and Silver Awards; 60-plus skill badges and leadership pins; and Gold Level of Presidential Volunteer Service Award three times.

She is a member of James Clemens Competition Marching Band and American Legion Auxiliary, Post 229.

She works at Toyota Field for the Trash Pandas. “I love doing anything with my troop and (boating) with my family,” Downs said.

Planning to attend Ole Miss, Downs wants to study engineering.

Olivia’s parents are Jeff and Jean Downs. He is a Director at Teledyne Brown Engineering. Jean is Vice President of Operations at SCI.

MADISON – A practicing physical therapist and author, Stephanie Johnson has completed an updated version on subject matter that she released 10 years ago. Parents and any caregivers for infants can learn from “The Truth About Tummy Time: A Parent’s Guide to Safe Sleeping Practices.”

Johnson’s book contains important details on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome or SIDS, safe sleeping practices, use of car seats, plus more updated information on leading theories of SIDS and an in-depth look at common questions that new parents have about promoting development while keeping baby safe.

Since the book’s original publication 10 years ago, new theories on SIDS have arisen. “Medical research has advanced to save more lives,” Johnson said. “The ‘Back to Sleep’ program was replaced by the ‘Safe to Sleep’ campaign, shifting the emphasis to a safe sleep environment for infants.”

This easy-to-read, concise guide simplifies heavy medical jargon in easy-to-understand terms.

Johnson also has gained 10 years’ additional experience through clinical practice with pediatrics patients. “I wanted to include that knowledge in the new book to help parents and caregivers promote development in the children they care for while keeping them safe,” she said.

The book’s target audience includes new parents, veteran parents who are still in their childbearing years, grandparents who are caring for their grandchildren and any caregiver who regularly cares for infants, Johnson said. The book’s new information is beneficial for both new and previous readers.

Do parents need to read the book’s new version? “If they’re still caring for infants, absolutely!” Johnson said.

Since Johnson’s first book was published, instances of SIDS have decreased.

“Since the Back to Sleep campaign in the

After a 10-year hiatus in writing, author Stephanie Johnson has released a new book, “The Truth About Tummy Time: A Parent’s Guide to Safe Sleeping Practices.” Johnson works as a physical therapist at Compass Physical Therapy in Madison.

1990s, proper coding of the SIDS diagnosis has been streamlined,” Johnson said.

“With the decrease in the SIDS diagnosis, a steady rise in the diagnosis of accidental suffocation and strangulation in bed (has increased), making the Safe to Sleep message more important than ever.”

Johnson has spent her career as an advocate for safe-sleeping practices. In 2012, she was named a Safe Sleep Champion by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.

Stephanie works as a physical therapist at Compass Physical Therapy in Madison. Her husband Michael Johnson owns Mozaic Inc. and works as a Systems Designer. The Johnsons have four children: Jacob, 20; Weston, 19; Parker, 16; and Jake, 15.

The updated edition of “The Truth About Tummy Time: A Parent’s Guide to Safe Sleeping Practices” is available as an e-Book or paperback on Amazon.com.

For more information, call 256-3254903, email stephanie@compassptinc. com or visit CompassPTinc.com, Facebook/PTCompass or Instagram @PTCompass.

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A generous donor make it possible for Huntsville Hospital to purchase a new state-of-the-art ambulance for the Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children’s Kids Care fleet

Anonymous donor funds new state-of-the-art kids care pediatric and neonatal transport ambulance HUNTSVILLE – A new state-of-the-art ambulance has been added to Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children’s Kids Care fleet, which provides the only pediatric and neonatal critical care transport in North Alabama.

The Kids Care pediatric transport ambulance is equipped with specialized equipment that allows the highly trained Kids Care team to care for patients from 23 weeks gestation to 21 years old while transporting them to Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children from another area hospital.

Onboard medical capabilities include ventilator management, CPAP, BiPAP, carbon dioxide monitoring, high-frequency ventilation, hypothermia management, and more.

The new ambulance was fully funded through a generous gift from an anonymous Huntsville Hospital Foundation (HHF) donor.

“Kids Care provides excellent, lifesaving care to more than 700 children across the region each year,” said Danielle Armstrong, Huntsville Hospital Pediatric ICU unit director and Kids Care coordinator. “This upgraded unit See DONOR Page 8A

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EVENTS

6A

July 21, 2021

UPCOMING EVENTS

RUMOURS: A FLEETWOOD MAC TRIBUTE July 24 Starting: 08:00 PM Von Braun Center Mars Music Hall 700 Monroe Street Admission charged www.ticketmaster.com/event/20005AA7B71396C8 Rumours is the country’s premier Fleetwood Mac tribute band. Based in Atlanta, GA, Rumours captures the energy of Fleetwood Mac at the height of their career by blending perfect harmonies, precise instrumentation, and a visually engaging stage show.

CITY LIGHTS AND STARS CONCERT SERIES: LAMONT LANDERS July 23 Gates open at 6:00 PM Burritt on the Mountain 3101 Burritt Drive Admission Charged www.burrittonthemountain.com Pack a picnic, dress casually, bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy a spectacular view of the city from the new cantilevered deck while listening to great music.

COCKTAILS AT THE VIEW Recurring weekly on Wednesday at 5:30 p.m.

Burritt on the Mountain 3101 Burritt Drive No admission charged. Food and drink for purchase. burrittonthemountain.com Experience the most spectacular view of the city and watch the sunset from the cantilevered overlook. Enjoy cocktails from a full service bar and purchase food items from the gourmet market. Check website for weather-related changes.

GREENE STREET MARKET AT NATIVITY Recurring weekly on Thursday 4 - 8 pm Downtown Huntsville See UPCOMING EVENTS Page 7A

Calhoun Theatre and the Athenian Players join to present musical comedy

By STAFF REPORTS ATHENS - The Calhoun Community College Theatre Program and the Athens State University Athenian Players will perform in a joint musical production, ‘Something Rotten’. The performances will be held on July 2224, 7:00 p.m., in the Black Box Theatre at the Alabama Center for the Arts, 133 2nd Ave NE, Decatur (downtown Decatur).

According to Lauren Cantrell Salerno, Calhoun Theatre Instructor and Musical Choreographer, this is the first time the two schools have ever performed in a joint production.

The musical was created by Grammy Award-winning songwriter Wayne Kirkpatrick, and successful screenwriters Karey Kirkpatrick and John O’Farrell. The hilariously outrageous, crowd-pleasing musical, ‘Something Rotten’ was lauded by audience members and critics alike, receiving several Best Musical nominations and hailed by Time Out New York as “the fun-

niest musical comedy in at least 400 years”.

Set in the 1590s, brothers Nick and Nigel Bottom are desperate to write a hit play but are stuck in the shadow of that Renaissance rock star known as “The Bard.” When a local soothsayer foretells that the future of theatre involves singing, dancing and acting at the same time, Nick and Nigel set out to write the world’s very first musical.

But amidst the scandalous excitement of opening night, the Bottom Brothers realize that reaching the top means being true to thine own self, and all that jazz.

‘Something Rotten’ features large song and dance numbers, and a wacky cast of over-the-top characters, each given his or her own special moment in the show to shine. Throughout its Broadway run, the musical received a show-stopping standing ovation from audiences in the beginning of the first act! It’s become clear that “nothing’s as amazing as a musical.”

“Words cannot express how excited and honored I am to have the opportunity to not only serve as the Musical Director for the show, but also to showcase the amazing vocal talents of our students,” commented Granville Oldham, Calhoun Music Performance Instructor. “I’ve been providing musical instruction and voice coaching for a very long time, and each year I am blown away by some of the voices that join Calhoun’s Chorale Program,” added Oldham.

Due to the rising interest in Calhoun’s Chorale Program, the College has expanded the program to its Huntsville campus and will also offer scholarships to individuals that qualify.

To learn more about Calhoun’s Chorale Program and scholarships, visit www.calhoun.edu/ chorale.

To purchase tickets for ‘Something Rotten’, visit https://www. eventbrite.com/e/161820851523.

The box office opens one hour prior to the performance and can be contacted at 256-260-3007.

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Join Sweet Grown Alabama for a one-time special farmers market extravaganza at Big Spring Park in Huntsville! Farmers from across the state will be onsite near the bridge selling locally grown products. Support your friends and neighbors- buy local products! It will be held July 23 at Big Spring Park, 200 Church Street, Huntsville from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The ‘Pinta’, a replica of Christopher Columbus’ famous ship, is docked at Ditto Landing Marina until her departure on Monday July 26. While in port, the general public is invited to visit the ship for a walk-aboard, self-guided tour. Admission charges are $6.50 for adults, $6.00 for seniors ages 60 and up, and $5.50 for students ages 5-16. Children 4 and under are Free. The ship will be open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from July 16 thru July 25. No reservations necessary.

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CONCERTS IN THE PARK - Kristoffer Leshaun/Rocket City Latin Band - Monday, July 26 from: 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. The concerts are held in downtown Huntsville’s Big Spring Park on the Huntsville of Museum of Art outdoor stage and are FREE to the public. Concertgoers should bring their own seating and leashed pets are welcome. Picnics are welcome at Concerts in the Park, but local food trucks and vendors will be on site. Handicap parking will be available in the Huntsville Museum of Art parking lot and additional parking is available for free in the Monroe St. garage. Go to www.artshuntsville.org.

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LET THERE BE MUSIC Old Black Bear Brewery Downtown Madison Thursday nights at 6 p.m.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Eustis Avenue from Greene Street to Southside Square No admission charged Huntsville’s downtown open-air market will have locally-grown fruits and vegetables, flowers and herbs, food items, music and more.

MVP and Madison Arts Council are collaborating to support the arts in Madison and to raise funds to help construction of a performance pavilion in Home Place Park, the new outdoor amphitheater. The ”Let There Be Music” concerts will be presented through Sept. at 6 p.m. on Old Black Bear’s patio in downtown Madison, 212 Main St. The scheduled bands for the next couple of weeks include: July 22: Divided by Zero, and July 29: Calypso Vision.

GEOQUEST! Ongoing Burritt on the Mountain 3101 Burritt Drive www.burrittonthemountain.com Come play on the mountain! Choose one of four GeoQuest adventures to enjoy with your family – Nature Quest, History Quest, Critter Quest, or Letterboxing Quest. Using clues and GPS technology, hunt on the trails and museum grounds to collect sets of Quest Cards. Kids will love hunting and finding the Quest Cards that share fun facts and cool trivia about each theme. Collect a complete set of Quest Cards for all four adventures and you can enter your name in a monthly (April- September) drawing for a free family membership.

NIGH BLOOMS Huntsville Botanical Garden www.hsvbg.org Enter Night Blooms: a botanical dreamscape where flowers glow from within, birds and insects flit across the night sky, and light transforms the landscape into a new world, waiting to be explored! Night Blooms will lead you on a one-mile walking journey through the Garden in the evening. As you make your way through the Garden, you will discover vignettes of botanical lanterns integrated into the natural surroundings.

From poppies and orchids to turtles and spiders, Night Blooms will show you just how extraordinary a walk through the Garden can be.

MISSION EXPERIENCES AT US SPACE & ROCKET CENTER Ongoing U.S. Space & Rocket Center Reservations required. www.rocketcenter.com See if you have what it takes to get the crew safely to space and back home again in the Shuttle Experience.

Journey into the world of SCUBA and Neutral Buoyancy through the Underwater Astronaut Training Experience.

Explore history and get ready for the next era of space exploration in the Family or Adult Astronaut Training Experience. Some experiences are offered on weekends only. Check website for availability.

DOWNTOWN WALKING TOURS Recurring weekly on Sunday, Saturday Scenethat Walking Tours Admission charged www.scenethat.net Choose from a number of tours to learn more about Huntsville’s history. Denise Swain is passionate about research, storytelling and keeping the legacy of significant people and places alive. Book a tour here or call for a step-on guide for a group.

GLOW RUN 5K August 14 at 6 p.m.

Cummings Research Park www.drmglowrun.org Grab your glow sticks and start training for Downtown Rescue Mission’s annual GLOW Run on Saturday, Aug. 14, in Cummings Research Park. Join a thousand other glow runners as they walk, run, or skip through our neon and starlit course to raise money for the homeless men, women, and children in our community. Come early and stay late for food trucks, a live DJ, laser light show, custom balloon art, face painting, free flow glow performers, and more.

Go to our website at www.themadisonrecord.com every Thursday for a list of fun weekend events.

OUTDOOR MARKET Recurring weekly on Saturday Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment 2211 Seminole Drive FREE www.lowemill.art/saturday-artist-market Visit Lowe Mill A&E Saturday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., from May till October for an Outdoor Market. Vendors from all over the area will present their finest products, whether made-by-hand, second-hand or made by the earth. With community safety still in mind Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment will host this event throughout the grounds providing patrons, pickers, and art lovers See UPCOMING EVENTS Page 8A

20TH ANNUAL WHISTLESTOP WEEKEND FESTIVAL • August 13-14 • John Hunt Park in Huntsville www.whistlestopweekend.com Come have a toe-tappin, barbeque-eatin’ good time and best of all it’s all for a good cause. All proceeds benefit EarlyWorks Children’s Museum and educational programs for area children. In addition to the KCBS pro competition, there is a Shade Tree Cookers contest, Kid’s Q contest and People’s Choice Awards in the Shade Tree area. Tribute bands will take the stage both Friday and Saturday night, entertaining crowds with music from the Doobie Brothers, Santana, Tom Petty and Lynyrd Skynyrd. Local artists will round out the weekend entertainment.

Take Your Home To New Heights With Window World of Huntsville MADISON CITY FARMERS MARKET • Madison City Farmers Market, open every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon, 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. The Madison City Farmers Market is Located at 1088 Hughes Road, Madison at Trinity Baptist Church. Check online for more information and updates: www.madisoncityfarmersmarket.com

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8A • THE RECORD

July 21, 2021

UPCOMING EVENTS with an open air shopping experience.

THE MARKET AT LEIGH ACRES Recurring weekly on Saturday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Leigh Acres 5655 Maysville Road No admission charged www.leighacres.com Leigh Acres is approximately ten acres in New Market, Alabama. Every Saturday from 8:00 am – 2:00 pm, Leigh Acres has hundreds of artifacts and antiques displayed from around the world!

THE MARKET AT MIDCITY Recurring weekly on Sunday 1-5 p.m.

The Camp 5909 University Drive No admission charged www.facebook.com/themarketatmidcity It’s so much more than a farmers market! In addition to locally grown, fresh produce, there are artisans, makers and musicians.

THINGS TO SEE DRONES: IS THE SKY THE LIMIT Ongoing U.S. Space & Rocket Center One Tranquility Base www.rocketcenter.com Developed by subject experts from the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, and produced by Imagine Exhibitions, Drones: Is The Sky The Limit? explores the modern phenomenon of drones, their uses throughout history and the exciting possibilities of the future role that drones will play in our society.

UNCAGED: BIRDS, NATURE & YOU Ongoing Huntsville Botanical Garden 4747 Bob Wallace Avenue www.hsvbg.org Uncaged is a collection of interactive pieces that explore the lives of our charismatic feathered friends: birds! Each piece is unique and inventive, created by local artists and architects who have partnered with the Garden to bring the experience to life.

Uncaged will take you on a delightful adventure through the Garden to discover the secrets of our feathered friends like you’ve never seen before.

ENCOUNTERS: GREELY MYATT Ongoing Huntsville Museum of Art 300 Church Street www.hsvmuseum.org Greely Myatt is widely recognized for his whimsical sculptural objects and monumental installations made from found materials like flooring, neon lights, metal scraps, and discarded signage scavenged from the greater Memphis area.

ROOTED IN HISTORY: INTERPRETING ALABAMA’S FOLK ART TRADITIONS Ongoing

Harrison Brothers Hardware 124 South Side Square No admission www.historichuntsville.org Rooted in History showcases the works of Alabama’s folk and traditional artists across all mediums as they interpret Alabama’s folk art traditions from their own contemporary perspectives. The show is a collaboration between John “Jahni the Artist” Moore and the Historic Huntsville Foundation. Set in Harrison Brothers Hardware, Alabama’s oldest hardware store, which provides a perfect place to showcase Alabama’s history, art, and fine crafts traditions.

JACK MITCHELL: ARTISTS Ongoing Huntsville Museum of Art 300 Church Street American photographer Jack Mitchell (1925-2013) was renowned for his captivating photographs of visual artists, film and theater personalities, musicians, and writers, which he documented during a remarkable career that spanned over five decades.

In addition to 25 years of special assignment work for The New York Times, Mitchell’s photographs of creative and performing artists have graced the covers and pages of Harper’s Bazaar, Life, Newsweek, People, Rolling Stone, Time, Vanity Fair, and Vogue, among others.

This exhibition features approximately 50 silver gelatin and color photographs of important American visual, musical, and literary artists taken by Jack Mitchell over a career spanning five decades. The works were hand-selected by the Museum from the Jack Mitchell Archives. Organized by HMA.

Donor

from page 5A

ensures our team can continue treating these critical patients while transporting them to Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children to receive the level of care they need. We are so appreciative of the donor who made this new ambulance possible for our community and hospital.”

The new Kids Care 1 vehicle replaces the hospital’s original Kids Care ambulance, purchased by Foundation donors in 2003. It joins the Kids Care 2 ambulance, which has been serving patients since 2019. KC2 was funded through proceeds from HHF’s 2018 Huntsville Clas-

Bust

sic, Miracle Bash and Swim for Melissa events.

“The impact of our generous donors is literally lifesaving,” said HHF President Sarah Savage-Jones. “The new state-ofthe-art ambulance shows how just one person can step up and truly change lives across our entire region. We are deeply appreciative of this gift, and how countless donors made our other Kids Care transport ambulances possible. They have been part of every mile as a child was carried to the lifesaving care they needed.”

from page 3A

ficking (fentanyl) and Possession of Marijuana and, Theft of Property 4th.

He was booked into the Madison County Jail with bonds totaling $151,500.

Rashad King, 25 was arrested for Certain Persons Forbidden to Carry a Firearm and Possession of Marijuana 2nd.

He was booked in the

Madison County Jail with bonds totaling $1,000. Both King subjects are from the Birmingham area.

The traffic stop, which occurred a little after 4 p.m. on Mastin Lake Road caused the evacuation of a nearby apartment complex.

The Madison County Sheriff’s Office, Hunts-

ville police, HEMSI and firefighters responded to the scene after the suspect attempted to drive away from police. They drove off an embankment and hit a gas line of Creekbend Apartments.

Residents were allowed back in just before 5 p.m.

No injuries were reported.

TOYS: THE INSIDE STORY EarlyWorks Children’s Museum 404 Madison Street www.earlyworks.com This special traveling exhibit includes 20 different play/learn stations and exhibits that illustrate the simple mechanisms commonly found in toys, and let visitors create their own toy-like combinations of gears, pulleys, linkages, cams, and circuits. It also explores the history of toys throughout the ages, allowing visitors to reminisce and play with toys of days gone by.

TWEETSVILLE Ongoing Huntsville Botanical Garden 4747 Bob Wallace Avenue www. hsvbg.org Introducing, Tweetsville, a new development in the Children’s Garden. The first phase features the Lewis Bird Watch, a viewing area where guests can observe birds in their natural environment from behind a one-way glass, and the “See Rocket City” birdhouse, a larger-than-life birdhouse structure that serves as an iconic entrance to Tweetsville.

Guests will also find educational activities, dynamic plantings of Alabama native plants, and winding paths that guide learners through the immersive journey.

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LA GRAN RIVIERA

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INSIDE SPORTS

Wrestling Madison and North Alabama is filled with tremendous talent among high school wrestlers and many of those with incredible proficiency showcased their wrestling skills at the AAU Scholastic Duals.

Page 3B

EDUCATION Halfway through its inaugural season, the Rocket City Trash Pandas are playing well, attracting large crowds and on schedule for a very successful 2021 season of minor league baseball in North Alabama. Photo by Bob Labbe

Trash Pandas mid-season report: SUCCESS

By BOB LABBE bob0873@yahoo.com

Reflections Students in Madison City Schools compiled notable awards in the Alabama PTA Reflections contest.

Page 4B

MADISON - With a thrown ball from pitcher Reid Detmers to Zach Short of the Tennessee Smokies, the Rocket City Trash Pandas on home opening night began its inaugural season

on May 11 before an overflow crowd of more than 7,500 at Toyota Field. The Trash Pandas lost the game 4-3 in extra innings, but began what has been a very successful season for the Double-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Angels.

Now 60 games into the 2021

campaign the Trash Pandas look at a “mid-season report” as success with a capitol S. “Absolutely as the organization is making up for lost time after our 2020 season was scratched,” said Garrett Fahrmann, executive vice president and general manager of the

Trash Pandas. “Umpires and visiting teams have commented how electric our games are with our fans and the just entire experience of each game. We’ve had over 176,000 in attendance so far.”

The Trash Pandas lead all of See TRASH PANDAS Page 2B

Trash Pandas return home for final homestand of the season New Transportation Administrator

By STAFF REPORTS

Madison City Schools welcomed its new Transportation Administrator last week. Dr. Travis L. Schrimsher Jr. was approved by the school board recently and went straight to work. Page 7B

KIDS & CHURCH CAMP CHAMPS - The Lady Patriots! varsity volleyball team has been very busy over the summer weeks. They recently won the championship title at Municiana team camp. They have more camps in store as they prepare for the upcoming fall. In addition to their win, the Bob Jones JV Volleyball team, below, placed 2nd in the Municiana Team camp. Congratulations to both teams.

Special Weekly Pages Check our weekly Kids and Church pages with games and activities for kids, and area church listings.

Pages 5B and 6B

HISTORY

John H. Hundley Check out this interesting look at Madison’s past with John Rankin.

Page 8B

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MADISON - The Rocket City Trash Pandas returned to Toyota Field for their final 12-game homestand of the season from July 20-August 1 with six games each against the Tennessee Smokies, Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, and Birmingham Barons, Double-A Affiliate of the Chicago White Sox. The homestand features a Commemorative Glass Giveaway, 90s Night Jersey Auction, four fireworks shows, and the Negro Leagues Celebration.

Josh Caray will be on the call for 103.9 FM THE UMP and 730 AM SportsRadio for each game.

The game will also be televised locally on WAAY-31.6, This TV.

Wednesday, July 21 Trash Pandas vs. Tennessee Smokies - Game Time: First pitch is at 6:35 p.m. All gates will open at 5:30 p.m. VIP Gates open at 5 p.m.

- Dog Day: Fans can bring their furry friends to Toyota Field and sit with them on the Budweiser Berm. A $1 donation per dog is requested, benefiting A New Leash on Life.

- Launch A Ball: Following the game, fans can participate in Launch A Ball for a chance to win great prizes. Tennis balls will be available for purchase at guest services.

Thursday, July 22 Trash Pandas vs. Tennessee Smokies - Game Time: First pitch is at 6:35 p.m. All gates will open at 5

See HOME SERIES Page 2B

2B • THE RECORD

July 21, 2021

423182-1

Lending some helpful hands

The staff and residents at Madison at the Range Senior Living are very appreciative after some local football players game them a helping hand last week. Members of the James Clemens High School varsity and JV football teams for helping weed around the beautiful Madison at the Range community on County Line Road. “Our residents and staff are eternally grateful for their community service,” said Madison at the Range Marketing Director Jennifer Finlay.

Follow us at www.facebook.com/themadisonrecord

Trash Pandas

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Double-A and ranks fourth in Minor League Baseball with an average home attendance of 6,088. The mark is only behind Triple-A teams in Nashville, El Paso and Las Vegas.

At mid-season the attending crowds have watched the Trash Pandas post a 28-30 record, which puts them in third place among the Double-A South, North Division 4.5 games behind first place Chattanooga (32-25) and 2 games back of second-place Birmingham (31-28). Home record for Rocket City is 16-12 while the team is 12-18 on the road.

As for additional team statistics up to this point, the Trash Pandas have hit 88 home runs far and away more than any other league squad as Birmingham is next with just 69 dingers. The 88 round trippers are also tops in all of Double-A baseball.

Trash Pandas pitchers have recorded 606 strikeouts, which is the most in the league.

As promised, attending crowds are treated to more than just a baseball game on the natural grass playing field consisting of 365SS Kentucky Bluegrass over seeded into 419 Bermuda grass and maintained by head groundskeeper Charlie Weaver a graduate and former baseball player of Bob Jones High. It’s not just a baseball game, each night is an event.

“One of the biggest surprises I’ve

noticed is here in the South it seems most sports fans are football crazy, but I’ve noticed our fans are into the game and stay at each game win or lose,” said Fahrmann. “One night we were down 13-nothing in ninth inning and we scored a run and our fans acted as if we just won the game. Our fans are always engaged and it’s fun to watch.”

Since opening night, many changes have taken place at a Trash Pandas game. Parking is much better with more entrances and fans are able to get in and out much more efficiently, additional parking areas are now available and special parking for season ticket holders. Concession stands have been revamped for better flow and shorter lines.

“Labor is still an issue as we could use an additional 20 workers at each game to make the event even better,” added Fahrmann.

“We’ve encouraged fans to visit the outfield area to food trucks and beer portables, but people are creatures of habit as most want to stay at concession stands under the cover of the stadium.”

Upcoming key promotions for the remainder of the season include July 25 with the Christmas in July Toy Drive and Kids Run the Bases, 90’s Night and Jersey Auction on July 29 and Super Hero Night set for Aug. 19. As for post-season

promotions once the 2021 season is complete, the Christmas Lightshow will return and plans are that to be bigger and better than last year. A concert is also being planned, but no date or artist have been finalized. The 9-11 game with the Wounded Warriors Softball Team is scheduled with complete details for the special game coming soon.

“I encourage ticket buyers to visit the Trash Pandas official website to purchase game tickets as some ticket resellers take advantage of our fans selling tickets at a much higher price than our website as we want our fans to get the most bang for their buck,” said Fahrmann. “The clear-bag policy is still in place as we feel all of Major League Baseball will have that policy implemented in a couple years as we’re staying ahead of the curve on that issue.”

The Trash Pandas have received tremendous support from the community and businesses and is a good partnership for all involved.

Fahrmann stressed the organization loves feedback from its fans.

As for the action on the field, the team is at a halfway point of the 2021 season and still have a great chance to make the playoffs. The South League will host the top two teams in overall record for a best-offive series to determine the South League Champion.

Home Series What’s up at the

p.m. VIP Gates open at 4:30 p.m.

- Trucker Cap Giveaway: 2,500 adults aged 18 and older through the Toyota Field gates will receive a Trash Pandas trucker baseball cap, presented by SportsMED. - Launch A Ball: Following the game, fans can participate in Launch A Ball for a chance to win great prizes. Tennis balls will be available for purchase at guest services.

Friday, July 23 – Trash Pandas vs. Tennessee Smokies - Game Time: First pitch is at 6:35 p.m. All gates will open at 5:30 p.m. VIP Gates open at 5 p.m.

- Friday Night Fireworks: Following the game, a dazzling fireworks display will light up the Rocket City sky.

Saturday, July 24 – Trash Pandas vs. Tennessee Smokies - Game Time: First pitch is at 6:35 p.m. All gates will open at 5:30 p.m. VIP Gates open at 5 p.m.

- Saturday Night Fireworks: Following the game, fireworks will light

up the Rocket City sky, presented by Noblis.

Sunday, July 25 – Trash Pandas vs. Tennessee Smokies - Game Time: First pitch is at 6:35 p.m. All gates will open at 5:30 p.m. VIP Gates open at 5 p.m.

- Christmas In July: Ring in the holidays early and contribute to the community with a toy drive benefitting Christmas Charities Year Round.

- Launch A Ball: Following the game, fans can participate in Launch A Ball for a chance to win great prizes. Tennis balls will be available for purchase at guest services.

- Kids Run The Bases: All kids are invited to run the bases after the game.

Be sure to listen for an in-stadium announcement prompting those interested to line up at the designated location.

Tuesday, July 27 – Trash Pandas vs. Birmingham Barons - Game Time: First pitch is at 6:35 p.m. All gates will open at 5:30 p.m. VIP Gates open at 5 p.m.

- Negro League Celebra-

tion: The Trash Pandas will honor the rich history of Negro League Baseball in Alabama and one of the greatest players in league history, Josh Gibson. His great-grandson, Sean, will be on hand for a meet and greet on the concourse.

Throughout the night, fans can explore Negro League table exhibits and watch video tributes on the videoboard.

- Ladies Night: Ladies will have the opportunity to win great prizes and all fans can enjoy $1 off canned wine, sponsored by Reeds Jewelers.

- Launch A Ball: Following the game, fans can participate in Launch A Ball for a chance to win great prizes. Tennis balls will be available for purchase at guest services.

Wednesday, July 28 – Trash Pandas vs. Birmingham Barons - Game Time: First pitch is at 6:35 p.m. All gates will open at 5:30 p.m. VIP Gates open at 5 p.m.

- Dog Day: Fans can bring their furry friends to Toyota Field and sit with them on the Budweiser

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Berm. A $1 donation per dog is requested, benefitting Friends of Rescue, Inc. - Launch A Ball: Following the game, fans can participate in Launch A Ball for a chance to win great prizes. Tennis balls will be available for purchase at guest services.

Thursday, July 29 – Trash Pandas vs. Birmingham Barons - Game Time: First pitch is at 6:35 p.m. All gates will open at 5 p.m. VIP Gates open at 4:30 p.m.

- Pre-Game Wrestling Extravaganza: From 5:156 p.m., The Stars of New South Pro Wrestling will be in action at the Bill Penney Toyota Plaza. Following the matches, fans are welcome to participate in a photo opportunity throughout the game.

- Jersey Auction: The Trash Pandas will be wearing specialty 90s themed jerseys for Thursday’s game. Fans can bid on game worn, autographed jerseys from the Trash Pandas throughout the game by texting ‘throwback’ to 76278 and by visiting throwback.givesmart. com. The jersey auction will conclude at the end of the seventh inning. Proceeds from the auction will benefit Kids to Love.

- Launch A Ball: Following the game, fans can participate in Launch A Ball for a chance to win great prizes. Tennis balls will be available for purchase at guest services.

For information about the rest of the series, go to themadisonrecord.com or trashpandasbaseball.com.

July 21, 2021

THE RECORD • 3B

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The Tennessee Valley Wrestling Club posted a seventh place finish at the AAU Scholastic Duals held in Orlando, Fla. The team was comprised of 15 members from Bob Jones and two from Hartselle High and was led by head coach Ken Clark.

Local wrestlers find success in AAU Scholastic Wrestling Duals

To advertise in The Madison Record, call Donna Counts at 256-714-7152

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By BOB LABBE bob0873@yahoo.com ORLANDO, FLA.- Madison and North Alabama is filled with tremendous talent among high school wrestlers and many of those with incredible proficiency showcased their wrestling skills at the AAU Scholastic Duals recently held in Orlando, Fla. Prep wrestlers from both Bob Jones and Hartselle High Schools representing the Tennessee Valley Wrestling organization, headed up by head coach Ken Clark, made the trek to the Sunshine State for the annual national competition where some of the top talent in the country meet each year for the AAU Duals.

The top performer among the local competitors was Evan Pippin a rising senior at Bob Jones. The 6-foot, 182-pound grappler posted an undefeated 11-0 record including 10 pins and one tech fall earning All-American status for his performance.

“Two years ago I won the bronze medal with an 8-2 record and this year earning the gold medal it feels nice to have the titles, but I do understand they are not everything,” said Pippin. “The medals are great as they show the hard work I’ve been through. In wrestling you have to be diligent about working out and being in top shape and to be successful.”

In the 2020-2021 regular season at Bob Jones Pippin was ranked No. 1 in the 182-pound division with a 34-2 record, but was unable to partake in the AHSAA State Tournament due to suffering a case of mononucleosis. He was anxious to get back to action and the AAU Duals was perfect timing and being with his teammates at the duals, in which the squad placed seventh overall, was indeed a great way to lead into his senior year with the Patriots.

“I’m from a wrestling family as my father, uncle and older brother, Ethan, were all involved with the sport that I began at age five,” said Pippin. “As for our Tennessee Valley Wrestling team, we had a great time and we all experienced a lot of growth and bonding and we’re all better wrestlers because of our experience at the event.”

The Tennessee Valley wrestlers finished seventh out of 30-plus squads in the Developmental Division of the annual AAU event and included some very impressive individual performances.

From Bob Jones, those highlight-

Check us out at

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Rising Bob Jones senior Evan Pippin posted an undefeated record and earned All-American status at the AAU Scholastic Duals wrestling event held in Orlando, Fla. Pippin earned his gold medal as part of the Tennessee Valley Wrestling Club. ed performances included Maddox Sunderman in the heavyweight division. The second team All-State selection as an offensive lineman for the Bob Jones football team and who already earned an All-American ranking in the Virginia Beach Nationals by placing eighth, was 8-4 during the week in Orlando. The rising junior has been a backup to All-State performer Drew Lawson the past two years and looks to be on his way to a superior high school season.

Other notable performances included Scott Davidson (132-lb) was 6-4, Lincoln Bryant (126-lb) 8-2 and Payton Roberts (138-lb) also 8-2.

Head coach Ken Clark was presented with the Southeast AAU Person of the Year award for his work with the Tennessee Valley Wrestling organization and as President of the AAU in Alabama.

The award is given for the continued growth of wrestling in the Southeast and centered around the fact the sport has doubled in participation in North Alabama.

The Scholastic Duals are regarded as an almost brutal competition as each wrestler faced the strongest competition possible from other states. The 15 wrestlers from Bob Jones performed well as the future looks bright with the Patriots’ program.

One Bob Jones member who was unable to participate in the Duals, but was on schedule to attend was Manny Marrero. He suffered an ACL injury Sept. 9 of last year while wrestling in a pre-season national tournament. He underwent surgery and is on track to return to his spot in the 152-pound division with Bob Jones this fall. He has been working out with his fellow wrestlers with the club team and has been praised for his dedication to his recovery and assisting his teammates.

Prior to his injury in 2020, Marrero had beaten four state title winners and was expected to contend for gold medals in AAU competition and possible state title in his high school schedule.

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SCHOOLS

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July 21, 2021

First-place finishers in the Alabama PTA Reflections contest were Alice Grieve, Benjamin Wortham, Caroline Streling, Aparna Bhooshanan, Koume Yonemura, Laya Gowder and Oviya Gowder. Julie Streling, left, served as Madison City Schools PTA Reflections chair and P.J. Batchelor, right, serves with Madison City Schools PTA Council.

MCS students submit impressive work in State PTA Reflections

By GREGG PARKER Gregg.Parker@madison countyrecord.com

LEAP ACADEMY - Fun was happening by leaps and bounds at the LEAP Academy at Madison Elementary. LEAP stands for Leaders Emerging with Amazing Potential. During this week-long camp led by certified teachers and funded by community partners, students receive character education and learn about teamwork, diversity, acceptance, relationships, adversity and other life skills. Games, skits and discussion groups are all part of the fun.

Horizon’s ‘Staff Member of the Year,’ likes students’ progress in improving lifestyles

By GREGG PARKER Gregg.Parker@madison countyrecord.com MADISON – Christy Aycock feels a sense of pride when she sees students sincerely trying to improve their behavior. Aycock is 2021 “Staff Member of the Year” at Horizon Elementary School.

What “makes me the most proud is that the students I have in ISS (InSchool Suspension) try really hard not to come back to ISS,” Aycock, an instructional aide, said.

“They catch me in the hallways and tell me how they handled the situation that previously brought them to ISS.” “Whether it be a timeout, a few deep breaths, telling the teacher instead of taking things into their own hands, for example.

I’m probably not really ISS teacher material -- my own kids told me students shouldn’t want to hug the ISS teacher,” Aycock said.

Before working for Mad-

Christy Aycock, second from right, is “Teacher of the Year” at Horizon Elementary School. The family photo includes Abigail Aycock, from left, Hal Aycock, Caleb Aycock, Sarah Parker Aycock, Christy, and Olivia Aycock. ison City Schools, Aycock was a dental assistant.

She then married and started a family. Later, “I stayed home with my kids until they were in school.

I started ‘subbing’ (substitute teaching) at their school and even got my CDL (commercial driver’s license) so I could drive on their field trips,” she said.

Six years ago, she started working for Horizon.

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to work in the office and handle transportation … how kids get home each day,” Aycock said. “I was hired three years ago for ISS when the previous instructor retired.” Her time with MCS has been entirely at Horizon.

At Horizon, Aycock has a varying schedule and helps where needed. “I check in and out all textbooks, work in the office, cover classrooms when needed for meetings and make copies for teachers,” she said. “This year, I was in charge of transportation also. Due to COVID-19, I am the lunch runner most days.”

“I love my job’s flexibility but mostly love when I have students in ISS so we can come up with a plan to better handle the situations that put the student in ISS,” Aycock said.

Her husband works as an electrical engineer for

PEO Missiles and Space on Redstone Arsenal.

Their children, who all enrolled at Westminster Christian Academy, are Caleb, 25, a pharmacy major at Auburn University and married to Sarah, also a pharmacist; Olivia, 21, softball athlete majoring in biology and chemistry at Auburn Montgomery; and Abigail, 17, a Westminster senior.

A native of Panama City, Fla, Christy really doesn’t like the beach.

“When we go as a family, I spend most of my time reading on the balcony. I rarely touch the sand anymore.”

In free time, Christy is with her family, especially at softball games or dance competitions.

She enjoys ‘thrifting’ and antique shopping, a mother-daughter pastime that Christy now enjoys with her children.

MADISON – Students in Madison City Schools compiled notable awards in the Alabama PTA Reflections contest.

MCS earned approximately 33 percent of all awards from the Alabama PTA. In addition, 28 percent of the first-place winners advanced to competition at the national level.

Madison Board of Education recognized firstplace finishers in Reflections: * Alice Grieve -- Madison Elementary School, Intermediate Photography. * Benjamin Wortham -- Liberty Middle School, Special Artist - Middle School Photography. * Caroline Streling -Discovery Middle School, Middle School Literature. * Aparna Bhooshanan -- Bob Jones High School, High School Literature. * Koume Yonemura -- Columbia Elementary School, Dance Choreography - Primary. * Laya Gowder -- Heritage Elementary School, Dance Choreography - Intermediate. * Oviya Gowder -- Liberty, Dance Choreography - Middle.

In addition to volunteers at each school, coordinators for collecting and judging Reflections submissions included Julie Streling, who chaired the MCS PTA Reflections campaign, and P.J. Batchelor with MCS PTA Council.

Judges for the Reflections projects were experienced artists who eval-

uated the students’ work for its interpretation of theme, creativity and technique.

In the Dance Choreography category, Reflections will accept solo and ensemble works of all dance styles; the entrant must be the choreographer and performer (or one of the performers).

For Film Production, the accepted short-film styles include animation, narrative, documentary, experimental or media; video file must not exceed five minutes and one gigabyte in size.

Literature submissions can be fiction and nonfiction, including prose, poetry, reflective essay, screenplay and play script, narrative and short story; the work cannot exceed 2,000 words.

For Music Composition, all music styles and combinations of instrumentation are accepted; the entrant must be the composer and can be one of the performers.

The Photography category allows single print or digital image; the photographer can use various digital editing techniques, such as multiple exposure, negative sandwich and photogram. For visual arts, the artwork can be both fine and design, including architectural drawing and models, ceramics, collage, computer-generated images and graphics, crafts, fashion clothes and jewelry, fiber work, mixed media, painting, printmaking and sculpture.

For more information, visit pta.org/home/programs/reflections.

Calhoun to host annual cybersecurity camp for high school students

By STAFF REPORTS DECATUR - The Calhoun Community College Business & Computer Information Systems (CIS) Division will host its first annual Cybersecurity Summer Camp for high school students.

The camp will be held on Monday – Friday, July 26-30, from 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. in Noble Russell Hall on Calhoun’s Decatur campus. The camps are open to rising 10th through 12th graders in Madison, Morgan, Lawrence, and Limestone

counties.

According to Dr. James Payne, Calhoun Dean of Business & CIS, the goal of the week-long camp is to provide students with an introduction to cybersecurity as well as an overview of the many career opportunities in cybersecurity and STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) professions.

This year’s camp theme is ‘Beating the Bad Guys’ and will use the nationally-recognized Air Force Association’s (AFA) CyberPatriot summer camp curriculum.

“Campers will receive daily instruction and participate in teamwork-based lab activities to better understand fundamental cybersecurity tools and practices,” commented Garrett Smith, Calhoun Computer Information Systems Instructor and Camp Director.

Campers will work in teams on a cybersecurity challenge project, where they will also compete for See CAMP Page 7B

July 21, 2021

THE RECORD • 5B

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FAITH CHURCH DIRECTORY BAPTIST BIG SHILOH BAPTIST JEFFERY JEFFERSON 133 MAPLE ST. MADISON, ALA. 256-542-3633 SUNDAY SERVICE: 10 A.M. SUNDAY SCHOOL: 8:30 A.M.

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GREENBRIER BAPTIST RICKY LOWERY 7939 GREENBRIER ROAD MADISON, ALA. 35758 256-355-8032 SUNDAY 10 A.M. WEDNESDAY 7 P.M.

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KOREAN FIRST BAPTIST JANG YOUNG KIM 4257 SULLIVAN ST. MADISON, ALA. 35758 256-772-9489 SUNDAY 12:15 P.M. WEDNESDAY 7 P.M. LINDSAY LANE BAPTIST CHURCH EAST CAMPUS ANDY JOHN KING, PASTOR 1659 NICK DAVIS ROAD WWW.LINDSAYLANEEAST.ORG 256.232.0020 SUNDAY 9 A.M. AND 10:45 A.M. WEDNESDAY GROUPS 6:30 P.M. LITTLE SHILOH PB REGINALD JOHNSON 229 MAPLE ST. MADISON, ALA. 35757 256-461-4275 SUNDAY 11 A.M. WEDNESDAY 6:30 P.M. MADISON BAPTIST MICHAEL ALLISON 840 BALCH ROAD MADISON, ALA. 35758 256-830-6224 SUNDAY 10:45/6 P.M. WEDNESDAY 11 A.M./7 P.M. MADISON FREE WILL BAPTIST 5295 WALL TRIANA HWY MADISON, ALA. 35757 256-430-3087 MOSES CHAPEL PRIMITIVE BAPTIST JOE HERFORD 372 MOSES CHAPEL ROAD MADISON, ALA. 35757 256-461-0083 SUNDAY (SCHOOL/WORSHIP) 9 A.M./10 A.M. WEDNESDAY 6:30 P.M./7 P.M. MT. ZION BAPTIST PASTOR DR. KEVIN MOORE 228 MOUNT ZION ROAD HUNTSVILLE, ALA. 35806 256-837-2665 SUNDAY SCHOOL/BIBLE STUDY

BIBLE FIRST BIBLE CHURCH MADISON CAMPUS SENIOR PASTOR: STEVE BATEMAN CAMPUS PASTOR: ALEXANDER ROBERTS JAMES CLEMENS HIGH SCHOOL AUDITORIUM 11306 COUNTY LINE ROAD MADISON, AL 35756 256-353-2711 WWW.FBC.ORG SUNDAY: 10:45 A.M. WORSHIP SERVICE & CHILDREN MINISTRIES 9:15 A.M. COMMUNITY GROUPS, STUDENT & CHILDREN MINISTRIES MADISON BIBLE CHURCH 1520 HUGHES ROAD MADISON, AL 35758 256-430-0722 WWW.MADISONBIBLECHURCH.NET SENIOR PASTOR: BILL YOUNG YOUTH & OUTREACH PASTOR: JAY HUGHES WORSHIP & CHILDREN’S PASTOR: DAN MORGAN WORSHIP WITH US AT 9:15 (CHILDCARE FOR INFANTS – KINDERGARTEN DURING WORSHIP) STUDY WITH US IN ADULT BIBLE FELLOWSHIPS AT 10:45 YOUTH MEET AT 10:45 (MIDDLE SCHOOL & HIGH SCHOOL) CHILDREN’S MINISTRY AGE 2 – 5TH GRADE “JAM-JESUS AND ME” AT 10:45 NURSERY AT 10:45 AWANA FOR CHILDREN AGES 2 – 6TH GRADE MEETS ON SUNDAY AFTERNOONS DURING THE SCHOOL YEAR AT 4:15 – 6:00 MINISTRY FOR MEN AND WOMEN DURING THE WEEK

CATHOLIC ST. JOHN’S CATHOLIC 1057 HUGHES ROAD MADISON, ALA. 256-722-0130 SUNDAY: 7 A.M./8:30 A.M./11:30 A.M./5:30 P.M. M-F/W&TH:8:30 A.M./6:30 P.M.

CENTRAL VALLEY CHURCH OF CHRIST 9580 MAISON BLVD. MADISON, AL 35613 SUNDAY 10:00AM WEDNESDAY CONNECT GROUPS 6:30PM CVCFAMILY.ORG CHURCH OF CHRIST MINISTERS CARL WITTY AND GREG CHANDLER HUGHES ROAD AT GOOCH LANE MADISON, ALA. 35758 256-830-1654 SUNDAY 10 A.M./5 P.M. WEDNESDAY 7 P.M.

GOOD SHEPHERD UNITED METHODIST PASTOR DAVID TUBBS 1418 OLD RAILROAD BED ROAD MADISON, ALA. 35757 256-232-3331 SUNDAY 9:15 A.M./10:45 A.M. WEDNESDAY 6:30 P.M. (YOUTH MEETING) GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH PASTOR BRYAN SISSON 2113 OLD MONROVIA RD. HUNTSVILLE, AL 35806 256-430-0003 CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP 9:00 A.M. SUNDAY SCHOOL 10:00 A.M. TRADITIONAL WORSHIP 11:00 A.M. WWW.GRACEUMCHSV.ORG

CHURCH OF CHRIST OF MADISON MINISTER MIKE WINKLER 556 HUGHES ROAD MADISON, AL 35758 256-772-3911 SUNDAY 8:15 A.M./10:30 A.M./5 P.M. WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY 7P.M.

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July 21, 2021

THE RECORD • 7B

Gordan Wilkerson’s work ethic leads to Rainbow’s ‘Staff Member of the Year’

By GREGG PARKER Gregg.Parker@madison countyrecord.com MADISON – The faculty and staff at Rainbow Elementary School appreciate the work ethic of Plant Manager Gordon Wilkerson – so much so, they selected him as “Staff Member of the Year” for 2021.

In his work responsibilities, Wilkerson maintains the electrical, plumbing, mechanical, HVAC and cosmetic needs of the school building.

“Daily, I work on work order requests and take care of any emergency repairs that may come up,” Wilkerson said. “Weekly, I check on plumbing and electrical fixtures for leaks and functions. Monthly, I service HVAC units, mechanical rooms, water softener and the grounds.”

“Before I came to Rainbow, I worked at Lowe’s for about eight years. I started there as a loader and worked my way up to a plumbing specialist. Then, I went on to becoming a manager over appliances and cabinets,” Wilkerson said.

In 2016, Wilkerson started working for Madison City Schools as the Plant Manager for both Rainbow elementary and the MCS First Class Pre-Kindergarten Center. “I have been here at Rainbow since,” he said.

During his time at Rainbow, Wilkerson experienced an abundance of fulfillment from his work on construction of the school’s outdoor classroom. This project re-

Tam Hoang

Rainbow decides on Tam Hoang for 2021 ‘Teacher of the Year’ Gordon and Kristen Wilkerson share a moment away from work. Gordon is “Staff Member of the Year” at Rainbow Elementary School. ceived certification as both a State Outdoor Classroom and a National Wildlife Federation Schoolyard Habitat. This outdoor project features learning stations that promote different conservation and ecological themes, along with placards and signage for local plant and animal specimens.

After graduating from Bob Jones High School, Wilkerson attended the University of South Alabama in Mobile. “I moved to Madison from St. Louis, Mo. in 1997. I’ve lived here

since,” Wilkerson said.

Gordon is married to Kristen Wilkerson. She works as a System Administrator with Exeter Finance Corporation.

In his spare time away from his job at Rainbow, Gordon likes to read. One surprising fact about Gordon is that he is color blind.

A fan of outdoors activities, Gordon likes to pursue woodworking, gardening, hiking, camping, playing with his dogs and cheering on the Trash Pandas Baseball Team.

Dr. Travis Schrimsher was named the Madison City Schools new transpiration administrator. He replaces John Wilson, who has retired.

School board approves new transportation administrator

By GREGG PARKER Gregg.Parker@madison countyrecord.com MADISON – To Tam Hoang, it’s only fair that she must deliver 100 percent for her students if she expects 100 percent from them. Hoang is 2021 “Teacher of the Year” at Rainbow Elementary School.

“I believe that learning is an ongoing process. Just when I think I know it all, I find that there is still much to learn, understand, experience and enjoy,” Hoang said. “Each student is an individual and should be given the opportunity to reach his/her fullest potential with my guidance and encouragement.”

Hoang also thinks that students should have choices in the way that they learn and process information, along with understanding assessment procedures.

“Giving students some control will allow them to take ownership of what they’re learning instead of just having information that’s important to someone else,” Hoang said. She sets high expectations in her classroom and does not accept minimal effort from anyone -- including herself.

“I consider myself a firm disciplinarian but with lots of caring,” she said.

“I have been told many times that I have a very structured and organized classroom.”

Her career in education started at Frances Nungester Elementary School in Decatur as a second-grade teacher from 2000 to 2005. She then ac-

cepted the assignment at Rainbow.

“I’ve been at Rainbow since fall of 2005 and taught first, second, third and now fourth,” Hoang said.

She serves on the Leadership Committee, has sponsored a recreational chess team and has coached the Archery Team.

One of Hoang’s classroom successes happened this school year when a student was performing at a third-grade level in iReady Reading. “When he took the last iReady test, he was at a sixthgrade level. The child’s parents appreciated me for having such a good rapport with their son and therefore he thrived to do his best,” Hoang said.

“I was born in Vietnam and migrated to America in 1981 and grew up in Biloxi, Miss.,” Hoang said.

She graduated from the University of Alabama in Huntsville with a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts.

Her husband, Kenneth Van, works as a program manager for the U.S. Army. “I have one son and his name is Ethan Van. He will be in eighth grade at Discovery Middle School,” Tam said.

“One interesting fact about me is that I encountered real pirates when my family of 13, including my two cousins, escaped from Vietnam in 1981. My father gave them a little bit of gold, and they showed us a better route to Thailand,” Tam said.

One of her favorite hobbies is photographing nature. Tam also likes to hike and travel with family and friends.

By STAFF REPORTS MADISON - Madison City Schools welcomed its new Transportation Administrator last week.

Dr. Travis L. Schrimsher Jr. was approved by the Board Friday and reported to work immediately at the Transportation Depot.

Travis Schrimsher, the new transportation administrator for Madison City Schools He replaces Mr. John Wilson, who is retiring at the end of the month. The Transportation Department employs over 100 employees and buses more than 5,000 students daily to schools and also on field trips and athletic events.

Dr. Schrimsher most recently served as instructional and administrative leader of Monrovia Middle School. He has also served as a principal, assistant principal, coach, and teacher across several school districts over his more than 20 years in education, including administrative positions at Bob Jones and James Clemens high schools.

Teacher-coach stops included Florence County Schools in South Carolina starting in 1998, Shelby County Schools in Memphis and Rutherford County Schools in Ten-

F.E.A.R.

By BECKY MILLER God’s Lemonade Stand For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you. Isaiah 41:13

(L-R) Retiring Transportation Specialist John Wilson; Assist. Supt. Eric Terrell; Operations Director John Jones; new Transportation Administrator Travis Schrimsher nessee before accepting a teaching and coaching position at Bob Jones High School from 2008-2011.

He was assistant principal and summer school principal at BJHS in 2012 then assistant principal at JCHS from 2012-2013. Dr. Schrimsher was principal at Decatur High School from 2013-2016 and Principal at Athens High School from July 2016 to April 2019.

A graduate of the University of

Alabama Superintendents Academy, Dr. Schrimsher earned both his Ed.D. in Leadership and Professional Practice and his master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in Social Science from Athens State University and did graduate coursework at Francis Marion University in Florence, S.C.

Camp prizes. An awards ceremony will be held Friday at 1:00 p.m.

“Many of our local teenagers are unaware of the potential they have to be successful in cybersecuri-

ty or other STEM fields,” commented Payne. “Our goal is to show them the opportunities that exist in the cybersecurity profession and help them realize that, yes, they re-

ally can pursue those careers,” added Payne.

Funding for this year’s camp is provided by the Alabama Community College System and Alabama State Senator Ar-

thur Orr, who will also present student awards at the ceremony on Friday, July 23.

To learn more about this camp, visit www.calhoun.edu/cybercamp.

False Evidence Appearing Real is what this acronym means. Fear can be disabling. When the enemy can get you fixated on stuff you have no control over unless you can recognize it and counter it with spiritual warfare you find yourself slipping into a pit.

Put down that shovel for digging out of the pit cause you ARE NOT going to let it happen. Pick up the Bible open to the book of Ephesians and start reading. Pray, and make it a point to daily have quiet time with the Lord making it just as essential as that coffee meet up with a friend.

When you allow Satan to distract your faith walk with fear he has you so DO NOT let him. The way to win the battle over fear is to get up daily and say “This is the day the Lord has made I will rejoice and be glad in it!” Now go seize the day for God! PRAYER: I am grateful for caring friends and family and prayer lines that are there when I need a pick me up from the pits I get myself in. Better still I am thankful for my Bible. Forgive me when I rush into the day without my ‘armor’ on. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

God’s Lemonade Stand is written by former Madison resident Becky Miller. Her daily devotions appear on a Facebook page entitled God’s Lemonade Stand or at www.godslemonadestand.blogspot.com. Becky can be contacted at writemiller2002@yahoo.com.

MADISON HISTORY with John Rankin

8B

July 21, 2021

A look at the history of Lucy Lanier Ives Clark and John Henderson Hundley

By JOHN P. RANKIN Madison Historian MADISON - There is a very tall obelisk for Lucy Clark (1790-1844) in a small old family cemetery located in Test Area 1 of Redstone Arsenal. Often in historical research women are difficult to research for times prior to 1850. Unless they were the head of a household, women were typically not named in census records until 1850 and later. Instead, they and the children in a household were simply recorded as the numbers of males or females in various age brackets. Lucy died before 1850, so it would normally be unusual to learn much about her, and there was little information to be gained from any other markers in the small cemetery. However, persistence in exploring land deeds and probate records did result in uncovering quite a bit of information about Lucy’s life in Madison County.

Lucy was born in Virginia on November 29 of 1790, a daughter of Rebecca Robinson and her husband William Lanier, who moved his family to reside near today’s town of New Hope. Lucy died in Madison County on Christmas Day, 1844.

She married John Ives, as recorded in a Madison County license dated Christmas Day of 1823. John Ives was a plantation owner of land that many years later became Test Area 1, but he died in 1832 after only 9 years of marriage to Lucy. Six years later, in 1838, Lucy married James E. Clark. Jim Clark was younger than Lucy, and he owned an adjoining plantation near Charity Lea (nee Allison; she first married James Cooper in 1832. He then committed suicide in December 1834 by drowning in the Tennessee River.) The Clark plantation was also adjacent to that of Hughey Smith and the Timmons family holdings. However, Lucy refused to agree to marriage with Jim until he signed a prenuptial agreement, as recorded in Madison County Deed Book Q, pages 531-3. John Henderson Hundley of Limestone County was designated as Lucy’s trustee in the pre-nup agreement at a cost of “ten shillings of lawful money of this state”.

The agreement stipulated that James would not inherit Lucy’s 400 acres or other property if she died first. At the time, Lucy and Jim Clark were also separately owners of adjacent parcels of land that now comprise most of Test Area 1.

Lucy made her last will and testament in July of 1840 with five major provisions, while James Clark was still living.

She added a codicil in April of 1841. Mr. Clark passed away in January of 1844, so Lucy lived slightly less than a full year after his passing. There was no provision in the pre-nup to exclude her from inheriting his property, so she accumulated even more wealth because James had made a will that left one slave to his sister and all else to Lucy. John H. Hundley was also a witness to James’ will.

Lucy’s will provided first that all of her debts be paid and secondly that most of her lands and slaves pass to John H. Hundley, whom she later called “my friend”.

It was further stipulated that at Hundley’s death, everything would pass to John’s children by his wife Melinda Hundley. The third stipulation bequeathed a specific slave to Daniel R. Hundley, John’s son, when Daniel reached 21 years of age. The fourth provision specified that Lucy’s husband James, if he outlived her, could have some livestock and furniture of his choosing, plus use of part of her land so long as he lived on it, cultivated it, and remained single. If he should leave the land, then the use of it would pass to John Hundley or Hundley’s heirs. Furthermore, if James Clark should become incapacitated and unable to farm the land, then he was to live with and be supported by Hundley if James was willing to do that, so long as James did not marry again. Apparently, Lucy really did not want James to remarry if he outlived her.

Lastly, Lucy’s 1840 will specified that John Hundley would have use of her livestock and slaves until Hundley’s son Daniel reached 21 years of age. If John Hundley were to die before Lucy, then all designated for his use would go “to his children by his present wife, Melinda Hundley”. Melinda herself was not directly given anything by Lucy’s will.

John H. Hundley “or his administrator” was designated as the executor and administrator of Lucy’s will. The codicil added in 1841 required Hundley to erect a rock wall around the graves of Lucy, John Ives, and their daughter. James Clark apparently was not buried with them. Yet, Lucy certainly was careful to provide her “friend” Hundley a rich in-

heritance from her estate.

The name John H. Hundley suggests possible linkage to Horace Lawson Hunley (a variant spelling of Hundley), the Confederate inventor of the first submarine to sink an enemy ship. He was born 1823 in Sumner, TN, but died in 1864 in his submarine at Charleston. The submarine H. L. Hunley was built in Mobile, and it was the first in the world to sink an enemy ship, but it also sank afterward for unknown reasons. There could be a connection of H. L. Hunley to our local John Henderson Hundley, but it has not yet been established.

Research into history of the area around the town of Madison shows the Hundley name owning land between Triana and Madison, as well as in Limestone County along the Tennessee River at “Hundley Hill” plantation. The surname in Madison itself was found when in 1905 Jim Williams had the land south of Maple Street, east of Church Street, and north of the railroad surveyed. The parcel was called “the Hundley lots”, indicating a Hundley presence within the town prior to that time.

John Henderson Hundley appeared in Madison County records in the 1830 census, living near New Hope, where Lucy Lanier Ives Clark had lived before her first marriage. Nearby were the families of James Robinson, Adams Lanier, and Lazarus Lanier, who probably were relatives of Lucy Lanier. Moreover, in 1829 and 1830 John H. Hundley purchased parcels of land just west of the arsenal (south of Swanscott Road and near the Limestone County line) from Hardy Robinson.

It was the Robinson connection that tied Lucy to the Hundley family. John Henderson Hundley (1796-1881) married Malinda Robinson in Virginia before patenting government land in the southeastern area of Limestone County. His later motivation to buy Robinson land in the southwestern part of Madison County was possibly due to the all-year ability of riverboats to reach Triana but not Whitesburg landing. Hundley Hill was his plantation house near the river just west of the county line. The house burned in the early 1900s, and even the family cemetery is gone now, but the Hundley graves were moved to Maple Hill Cemetery in Huntsville.

Melinda Robinson Hundley was the only daughter of Daniel Robinson and therefore not a sister of Lucy’s mother Rebecca Robinson Lanier. Still, Lucy’s stipulations that only children of Melinda would inherit her property plus John Hundley’s numerous interactions with the Robinson families in Madison and Limestone County indicate close linkages. John Hundley by 1840 moved into Mooresville, where he was postmaster, farmer, preacher, and physician. Henry J. Hundley, 10 to 20 years older than John, was living in that area in 1830, but he was not found in the 1840 census. John and Melinda had at least six children: Oscar, Orville, Daniel Robinson, Samuel, William Henderson, and John Henry Hundley. Orville wed Mary Holding and had a son named Oscar in 1854. Oscar became the Huntsville city attorney, a state representative, and a state senator. He lived with his family in Madison in the 1860 census, but afterward was enumerated in Huntsville. He was also reported to have built a house in Birmingham.

Daniel Robinson Hundley, son of John and Melinda and specifically named in separate provisions of Lucy Clark’s will, also became an attorney. He practiced law in Chicago until the Civil War commenced. He returned to Limestone County and organized the 31st Alabama Infantry of the Confederate Army. He was captured at the Battle of Big Shanty (where also John Buchanan Floyd, Madison’s mayor of the late 1890s was wounded) in Georgia and imprisoned at Johnson’s Island. Daniel wrote several books during the era and is quoted as an authority on Southern life by social historians. After the war, Daniel and his cousin-wife Mary (nee Hundley) Hundley lived back at Hundley Hill by 1877.

Mary was a daughter of Ann Bouldin and Elisha Estes Hundley, a brother of Dr. John Henderson Hundley, Daniel’s father. Daniel and Mary named a daughter Lucy, probably in honor of Daniel’s benefactor, Lucy Clark. Lucy Lanier Ives Clark was not directly in the lineage of the Hundley genealogy, and she left no direct descendants as her legacy in this world. Yet, she financially influenced and shaped the Hundley family destiny and somewhat enabled their noteworthy accomplishments in the history of Alabama.

To advertise in the next Madison Record, call Donna Counts at 256-714-7152