The Madison Record - December 8, 2021

SPORTS: Winstone brings extraordinary experience to role as director of coaching for AYSO

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WEDNESDAY December 8, 2021

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INSIDE

Rezoning Months of work have resulted in rezoning plans for Madison City Schools that will affect students at Discovery and Liberty middle schools.

Page 3A

New principals The Madison City Board of Education last week approved principals for three schools to replace three who are retiring. All of the replacements are in leadership from within the district and will simply be transferring schools.

Page 3A

CHRISTMAS IN MADISON - The countdown to Christmas officially began in downtown Madison on Thursday. The Polar Express Christmas Tree Trail was illuminated on Main Street in a special event that included music by the Madison City Community Orchestra (above), the reading of the “The Polar Express” by Madison Public Library staff, and the official lighting of the tree trail. Sponsors were the historical society and the City of Madison. After the tree lighting, downtown merchants presented the first annual Wassail Fest. The public was invited to enjoy samples of residents’ best recipes and vote for their favorite.

See more upcoming events starting on page 5A, and more photos from this event on page 8A. Photo by William Aycock.

Local WWII veteran receives French Legion of Honor for 105th birthday

By ERIN COGGINS The Madison Record

Holiday Events Check out our growing list of Christmas events happening soon in the Huntsville-Madison area. Page 5A

SPORTS

Bob Jones Swim Team The Bob Jones swim team received its stamp of approval for the 2021 season by taking runner-up trophies in both boys and girls divisions at the Alabama High School Athletic Association State Swim Meet. Page 1B

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

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INSIDE Records .......... 2A Events ............. 5A Education ........ 6A Sports ............. 1B

Business ......... 4B Kids................. 5B Church ............ 6B Lifestyles ......... 7B

16 pages • 2 sections

MADISON - When it comes to birthdays, Madison resident Major Wooten knows how to celebrate. After all, Dec. 3 was his 105th one.

To honor this milestone birthday, Wooten’s granddaughter Holly McDonald arranged for some special honors at his birthday party, including the French Legion of Honor for his service to France in World War II. Wooten, a railway mechanic for the Army when American troops landed in France to help the Allies defeat Germany, was responsible for repairing tanks, trucks and hospital cars in order to keep the front lines supplied.

The French Legion of Honor

is typically reserved for French citizens, but is sometimes awarded to foreign nationals, like World War II soldiers, who have served France or the ideals it upholds. The French Counsul General to the American Southeast Vincent Hommeril presented Wooten with the medal on behalf of French President Emmanuel Macron.

“Mr. Wooten, you are a true hero,” Hommeril said. “Your example gives us inspiration for the future, and your legacy provides a moral compass for generations to come.”

The French Consulate’s Office reached out to McDonald about filling out an application for the honor in February. She submitted the application in March and just received word See WOOTEN Page 7A

Major Wooten (left) was presented the French Legion of Honor by French Counsul General to the American Southeast Vincent Hommeril on behalf of French President Emmanuel Macron. Photo by Jennifer Brown

Christmas Time with the The Beasley Brothers: Jackson and Lawson have not forgotten their roots back home as they prep for annual Christmas concert

By GREGG PARKER Gregg@themadisonrecord.com DECATUR - Christmas Time with The Beasley Brothers is back! The show is family-friendly and will feature Christmas classics, modern Christmas hits, and even a few Christmas originals this year. They will perform this year at The Princess Theater in Decatur on Dec. 18 starting at 7:30 p.m.

On the road . . . around the

Southeast, in California on the West Coast or in Boston on the Eastern Seaboard. Jackson Beasley and Lawson Beasley, known professionally and in real life as The Beasley Brothers, have found their niche.

Jackson and Lawson have grown their innate appreciation of music to reach beyond their hometown in Madison to concert bookings across the United States, yet they havSee BEASLEY BROTHERS Page 2A

The Beasley Brothers will present their annual Christmas Time with The Beasley Brothers concert on Dec. 18.

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EVENTS

2A • THE RECORD

December 8, 2021

Obituary THOMAS LEE BENNETT June 13, 1943 – November 25, 2021 Thomas Lee Bennett, 78, of Huntsville, passed away Thursday. He was born in Leon, Iowa on June 13, 1943.

Tom graduated with a master’s degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Arizona State University. He was an Air Force

Captain until his entrepreneurial spirit led him to Huntsville where he spent the last two decades of his career supporting PEO Aviation.

A husband, father, friend and mentor, Tom was a good, giving Christian man. He loved his family with all his heart.

He would tell you he was happiest around his grandchildren,

when all gathered together to eat, share stories, and laugh.

He is now rejoicing in Heaven with friends and family. Tom is deeply loved and will be missed forever.

Tom is survived by his wife of 56 years, Barbara Ann Bennett; children, Kimberly and David Byrge, Tyler and Teresa Bennett, and Jennifer and Ty-

ler Trent; grandchildren, Kayla Byrge, Seth Bennett, Lindsey Lee Byrge Miller (and Kennedy), Grace Bennett, Noah Trent, and Molly Bennett; brother, Allan and Neda Bennett; and sisters, Marcia and John Chastain, and Mary and Mark Sharp.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date via social media.

Thomas Bennett

Beasley Brothers en’t forgotten their roots in music, back home in North Alabama.

Jackson and Lawson share an inclination for music with their mother, sister and both sets of grandparents. “Our dad likes to say he ‘plays the radio,’” Jackson said jokingly.

The brothers’ major influence in music has been their grandfather; while primarily a singer, he knew enough basics to teach his grandsons a few songs on guitar and piano. An instructor in barbershop quartet, their grandfather encouraged the boys to harmonize when very young.

When they were eight years old, the brothers enrolled in basic guitar lessons. “Since then, everything has been selftaught and, of course, YouTube,” Lawson said.

Simply the best.

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“In high school, we did perform some as ‘The Beasley Brothers’ but we also were very involved in leading worship for our youth ministry every Wednesday -- where we really learned to play with other people.”

The brothers graduated from Westminster Christian Academy and the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Lawson earned a degree in business/supply chain management.

Jackson majored in physics, minored in business, for his degree. Shortly after graduating, they moved to Nashville to pursue their music careers.

In 2015, The Beasley Brothers hit the list, “15 North Alabama Musicians To Watch,” and first place in the “Que the Music” contest at the WhistleStop festival, where they opened for iconic rock band, Kansas.

Lawson is primarily a tenor and Jackson more of a baritone. “Our ranges do vary some, and we’ve been told our voices are very different,” Jackson said. “We both sing and split the vocals pretty evenly.” Lawson fronts playing bass, while Jackson is on guitar.

Depending on the specific show, their musician lineup will vary. However, two instrumentalists at most shows are drummer Michael Plahm from Chicago, compiling threeplus years with the brothers, and keyboardist Wes Weirich from Decatur, logging about five years with them.

After a concert, the brothers critique themselves with little mercy.

“We think about it a lot in the sense that, if we attended the show, would we have thought it was a great show or not?” Jackson said. “Both of us are harder on ourselves than we should be. We always

Jackson and Lawson Beasley (above) were very involved leading youth worship services at CrossPointe Church in Madison during their younger years. The are pictured below during last year’s Christmas Time with The Beasley Brothers concert.

want people to get what they paid for and a little more at our shows.”

“If people tell us it was a good show, that always helps, but I think we are constantly chasing the approval of ourselves and also approval of the other brother,” Jackson said.

In a year, The Beasley Brothers perform an astounding number of shows – 200-plus. Most gigs are in Nashville; however, they recently returned from a run in Kentucky, passing through Louisville and Lexington.

“We have also been to Iowa several times and performed up in Boston in the last few months,” Lawson said. “In 2022, we have shows booked in Florida, the Carolinas and California. We love being on the road because we’re always meeting new people and performing in new places.”

For the Christmas season they will present “Christmas Time with The Beasley Brothers” on December 18 at 7:30 p.m. at the nostalgic Princess Theatre in Decatur.

“We started the show five years ago on campus at UAH while we were still students. The show has continually grown every year and become a tradition for many families in the North Alabama area,” Jackson said.

“We perform several Christmas classics, in addition to modern Christmas hits and even a few Christmas originals,” Lawson said. “The show also features other local performers as special guests.”

Tickets cost $19.99, with a VIP option at $29.99 that includes a meet-and-greet with the band, a private acoustic performance before the show and a special gift from the brothers.

For tickets, visit Princess Theatre’s website at princesstheatre.org or thebeasleybrothers.com.

Currently, The Beasley Brothers have produced three EP’s: “The First One,” “Here We Go Again” and “I Can’t Believe It’s Christmas Time,” along with four singles, are available at any digital music provider.

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THE RECORD • 3A

Rezoning for new middle school campus to ease overcrowding across school district

By STAFF REPORTS MADISON – Months of work have resulted in rezoning plans for Madison City Schools that will affect students at Discovery and Liberty middle schools.

The current rezone’s design will eliminate overcrowding at the two middle schools with a significant reduction in enrollment, MCS Superintendent Dr. Ed Nichols said.

“Madison continues to grow by leaps and bounds.

Even during COVID-19, we continue to grow.

When building a new school, rezoning is always necessary,” Nichols said.

“Since we’re going to allow the current sixth- and seventh-grade students the option to remain at Liberty or Discovery, those schools may not decline as much as they will going forward,” Nichols said. “Journey Middle School (on Celtic Drive) will have more students after the rezoning since

they currently house zero students.”

This rezoning will place middle school students at Journey. “No Discovery students are being rezoned to Liberty. No Liberty students are being rezoned to Discovery,” Nichols said.

One exception: One small rezone is occurring at the high-school level to unite a neighborhood built in stages; students currently attend both James Clemens and Bob Jones. The rezoning will place all these students at Bob Jones. This neighborhood includes homes on Shiloh Creek and Old Willow (and connects with Coach Lamp Drive), Nichols said.

“Currently, Madison and Triana have approved around 4,000 new homes that will be developed over the next five to eight years. This growth will add around 2,000 new students,” Nichols said. “In the future, we will need to add an eighth elementary

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A map that shows the rezoning for Madison City Schools is available on the MCS website, madisoncity.k12.al.us.

and expand both of our high schools. This rezoning and the addition of the new middle school will certainly give us the space needed for this growth at the middle-school level.”

MCS leaders have a goal always to balance school populations as representative of the community and “allow all students to have an equal opportunity to thrive academically, athletically and socially,” Nichols said. “Since we’re blessed with diversity in all our neighborhoods, our schools are always rich with racial diversity, as well as cultural diversity.”

“Our mission is to prepare our students for global success. Our schools are truly a microcosm of society and will help

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prepare them,” Nichols said. “By balancing our schools since the school district’s inception, we have been able to provide our parents an outstanding school . . . regardless of where they live in our community.”

Students affected by the rezoning will attend their ‘new’ schools on Aug. 3, 2022, which is the first day of the 2022-2023 school year.

The MCS website has the current proposal for rezoning, which was updated for enrollment captured in September 2021.

To access rezoning details and a map, visit madisoncity.k12.al.us, click the “Our district” dropdown menu, and click “Rezoning info.”

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L-R in center: Nathan Wilson, Demetria Freeman and Jamie Hill, flanked by Madison City Schools Superintendent Dr. Ed Nichols (right) and Assistant Superintendent Eric Terrell (left). Wilson was named principal of Mill Creek Elementary. Freeman will take over as principal of Horizon Elementary, and Hill will become principal at Discovery Middle.

MCS hires three new principals to replace three who are retiring

By STAFF REPORTS MADISON – The Madison City Board of Education last week approved principals for three schools to replace three who are retiring. All of the replacements are in leadership from within the district and will simply be transferring schools.

The new principals and schools are: Jamie Hill, Discovery Middle School; Demetria Freeman, Horizon Elementary; Nathan Wilson, Mill Creek Elementary.

Hill is currently principal at Columbia Elementary and is replacing Kim Stewart who served as DMS principal since 2017.

Freeman has been assistant principal at Madison Elementary since 2018.

She replaces Rodney Richardson, who has been principal at Horizon for over 10 years.

Wilson is currently assistant principal at Heritage Elementary and had served at Mill Creek as a MAAP (Madison City Aspiring Administrative Program) from July 2017 to July 2019.

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He replaces Carmen Taylor-Tubb who has been Mill Creek principal since 2015.

Madison City Schools Superintendent Dr. Ed Nichols congratulated the new principals and assured them they will be surrounded by great faculties and staffs at their schools. “I am excited for these new leaders and certainly appreciate the dedication of those who are leaving,” he said.

Here is a little more background on the new principals of their time with Madison City Schools.

Jamie Hill has 20 years with Madison City Schools. His tenure with MCS includes three years as a collaborative teacher at Bob Jones High School, assistant principal BJHS from 2007-2011 and Special Education Coordinator for the District from 2011-2014 before being named principal at Columbia Elementary in 2014.

Hill said becoming principal at DMS “completes the circle” of his desire for leadership at the elementary, middle and high school levels.

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4A • THE RECORD

December 8, 2021

Huntsville International Airport recommends travelers be aware during holiday travel

By STAFF REPORTS

Echols

Shelton

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Three arrested for drugs, stolen property in Limestone County near Madison

By ERICA SMITH ATHENS — Three men were in Limestone County Jail on Friday facing drug and stolen property charges, according to a release from the Limestone County Sheriff’s Office.

James Goodman Echols, 29, is charged with drug trafficking and possession of a controlled substance. He was being held in lieu of $253,500

bail.

Stephen Jacob Shelton, age not available, is charged with drug trafficking and possession of a controlled substance.

He was being held in lieu of a $253,500 bail.

Alexander David Reed, age not available, is charged with second-degree receiving stolen property and two counts of possession of a controlled substance. He was being held in lieu of a

$9,500 bail.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, the Limestone County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit and Special Response Team executed a search warrant last Tuesday in the 18000 block of East Limestone Road a few miles north of Madison. The unit located more than 20 grams of fentanyl, methamphetamine, a stolen firearm and more than $1,700 cash, the office said.

The office said deputy Dylan Legg had previously taken a report about stolen items from a victim in the 20000 block of Huber Road. Legg recognized the victim’s name and address on a stolen package located in a vehicle at the East Limestone Road location, the office said.

The investigation is ongoing and more charges are possible, the Sheriff’s Office said.

A training initiative by Kids to Love, KTECH Virtual Reality Academy was tested in a VR Beta Class with Engineering Academy students at Bob Jones High School.

Bob Jones students test KTECH Virtual Reality Academy from Kids to Love

By STAFF REPORTS MADISON – This fall, Kids to Love launched a new program, their Virtual Reality or VR Academy, and the first users of the technology are seniors in the Engineering Academy at Bob Jones High School.

Kids to Love developed KTECH as a workforce training initiative, which has established itself as a leader in Alabama’s advanced manufacturing industry.

“As a newly licensed private school in the state and 2021 winner of the Alabama Automotive Manufacturer’s Association Service Provider of the Year award, KTECH is innovating education to widen career paths for its students and to serve the community,” Julie Reyburn said. Reyburn is Communications Director for Kids to Love.

Incorporated in 2004, the Kids to

Love Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, has reached more than 275,000 foster children and helped them to find forever families.

Lee Marshall is Founder and CEO of Kids to Love.

On Nov. 10, KTECH staff and Bob Jones engineering students met at the KTECH campus at 140 Castle Drive in Madison. They demonstrated their work in the Beta VR class to Madison City Schools Superintendent Dr. Ed Nichols, Bob Jones Principal Sylvia Lambert, Engineering Academy Coordinator Jessye Gaines and Madison Board of Education members.

“KTECH staff developed a Beta class in Virtual Reality with the intention of promoting long-term success for the program,” KTECH Recruitment Specialist Robin Dauma said. “Five students from Bob Jones Engineering Academy took part and

showcased what they have learned through this breakthrough curriculum. Their study will qualify them for intern-level opportunities with companies like Transfer VR, an international leader in VR training technology.”

KTECH is a private school licensed by the Alabama Community College System. KTECH offers interactive instruction for students to earn up to four certifications in the fields of robotics, soldering, Solid Edge modeling and design software and Mechatronics, which is a multidisciplinary field for skill sets in automated manufacturing to create simpler, smarter systems. (mtu.edu) For more information about Kids to Love or KTECH, call 256-880-3455, email kidstolovefoundation@yahoo. com or kelly.croce@kidstolove.org or visit kidstolove.org or goktech. org.

MADISON – The good news is that travel is rebounding after the restrictions that COVID-19 required in 2020. However, with an increase in traffic, the need to monitor your own responsibilities also grows.

During the holidays, numbers of people traveling are expected to return to the volume close to the level before the pandemic, according to the Transportation Safety Administration or TSA. With increased numbers, travel time will take longer. “With overall vaccination rates improving nationwide and greater confidence in healthy travel, there will be more people traveling, so plan ahead, remain vigilant and practice kindness,” TSA Administrator David Pekoske said.

TSA offers several tips for holiday travelers: * Wear a mask. – Individuals who travel, TSA personnel and other aviation workers are required to wear a mask because of the federal mask mandate. * Pack smart. – Remember security procedures when packing and avoid carrying any prohibited items in suitcases. If you can spill it, spray it, spread it, pump it or pour it, then it’s not a solid and should be packed in a checked bag. Passengers can bring solid foods, like cakes and baked goods, through checkpoints. * Hand sanitizer – Currently, TSA allows one container of liquid hand sanitizer, up to 12 ounces per passenger in carry-on bags. * Request passenger

support -- Travelers or families of passengers with disabilities, medical conditions or both can call the TSA Cares helpline toll-free at 855-7872227. Call at least 72 hours before flying. * Get questions answered before going to the airport. – Ask TSA. Call 866-289-9673 or visit Twitter or Facebook Messenger @AskTSA. * Ensure you have proper ID. -- Identity verification is important in security screening. * Remain aware. -Travelers are encouraged to report suspicious activities. Also, firearms cannot go through the TSA security checkpoint. * Misbehaving is expensive -- Department of Homeland Security has increased the range of civil penalties for unruly passengers, including violations of federal mask mandate at airports or on commercial aircraft.

First offenders will be fined $500 to $1,000 and second offenders up to $3,000.

Huntsville International Airport staff recommend arriving 90 minutes to two hours before flight time. Allow for check-in at the airline counter, checking bags and clearing the TSA checkpoint.

“While air travelers enjoy convenient, shorter security checkpoint lines at HSV than they would experience at larger airports, it’s very important that they allow ample time to get through them,” Barbie Peek said.

Peek is Business Development Director for Huntsville International Airport.

For more information, visit flyhuntsville.com.

When flying during the holiday season, travelers need to be aware of current rules and prepare early for trips.

Calhoun to provide “earn while you learn” opportunities for select students

By STAFF REPORTS The Calhoun Community College Technologies Division said Monday they are now accepting applications for earn while you learn opportunities. Approximately 60 applicants are selected each year to participate in this exclusive program. Individuals who are interested in getting paid, while earning their degree at Calhoun should apply by 11:59 p.m.

CST on March 15, 2022.

According to John Holley, Calhoun Dean of Technologies, the College has teamed up with several industry partners across North Alabama to provide students with this unique opportunity through its Alabama FAME (Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education), EPIC (Excellence in Process Industrial Controls) and AMP (Alliance for Machining Professionals) programs. These programs are designed

to specifically provide job opportunities to individuals who desire to secure a career in the manufacturing or STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) industries.

Students learn skills in areas such as robotics, pneumatics, hydraulics, motor controls, AC/DC machines, Programmable Logic Controllers and many others, including safety procedures and general education courses.

“We are proud to say that these programs boast a 100% in-field job placement rate for their graduates,” commented Holley. “Once the students receive their Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Advanced Manufacturing, they are also leaving with two years of industry experience as a result of working with our Co-Op companies and no school-related debt. You just can’t beat that,” added Holley.

Upon acceptance and enroll-

ment in the program, students are matched with a sponsor company and begin working during the summer before the fall semester begins.

Starting wages are very competitive and students have the potential to receive performance-based raises and bonuses throughout the program. Some of the sponsor companies include businesses such as Boeing, Toyota, Nucor, Asahi Kasei, Brown Precision, GE Appliances, Mazda Toyota, Polaris, Remington, Shape Corp, Snap-on Tools, Sonoco and Westrock.

To learn more about the programs, and how you can begin earning an income while you obtain your degree, visit www.calhoun.edu/ technologies. The deadline to apply is 11:59 PM CST on March 15, 2022.

For more information on the program, contact Nathan Steele at nathan.steele@calhoun.edu or at 256306-4326.

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The Magic of Christmas

Madison’s historic downtown will come to life with festive Christmas events and attractions

Noble Passage in downtown Madison keeps magic of Christmas alive

Check it out!

Look for the Dec. issue of Madison Living. You can find it in Madison businesses or at madisonlivingmagazine.com

Christmas time with The Beasley Brothers Next Step Farm Meet Madison’s new executive director Cross-County Christmas events and attractions Madison Living 1

EVENTS

5A

December 8, 2021

Christmas Capers 2021

It will be raining rubber chickens in downtown Madison

A crowd gathers for rubber chickens to be thrown off the top of Madison’s Humphrey-Hughes building in 2019 (above) to recreate the tradition held during the Great Depression involving real chickens (left).

▼ BEFORE ▼

MADISON – The forecast says it will be raining rubber chickens in downtown Madison this week. An unusual tradition from Madison’s past has been making a popular comeback over the past couple of years and is returning again on Sunday. The city and historical society will present the third annual Madison Christmas Capers on Dec. 12 from 4 to 5 p.m.

Lifelong residents will reprise the legend with ‘Doc’ Hughes tossing live chickens from his drug store’s roof to spectators below.

The custom of Christmas Capers originated in 1925 when George Walton ‘Doc’ Hughes rented the Humphrey-Hughes property at 200 Main St. in downtown Madison. Doc Hughes opened his drug store business at that location, which he operated until 1972.

During years of the Great Depression in the early 1930s, Hughes started a holiday tradition dubbed the “Christmas Chicken Capers,” according to “Madison Station, Historic Downtown Madison, 1856-2015” by Madison Station Historical Preservation Society.

On Christmas Eve, ‘Doc’ Hughes threw live chickens from the roof of his business. The chickens had tags attached to their legs, and people could redeem the tags for prizes in Hughes’ store. Anyone who caught the chickens (sometimes turkeys, some people say) received the prizes and kept the chicken for Christmas dinner.

In recent years, the Christmas Chicken Capers evolved from live chickens to rubber chickens with gift cards from local retail stores.

At 4 p.m., Doc Hughes’ grandsons, Larry and Walt Anderson, will re-enact the legend by pitching rubber chickens with gift vouchers tied to their legs from Hughes Drug Store’s balcony. Gift vouchers are valued in thousands of dollars.

Rotary Club of Madison will serve free hot chocolate and cookies. Madison City Community Orchestra will entertain the crowd.

Christmas Capers will continue when the city and Torch Technologies present the second annual “Madison Christmas Night at the Movie.”

The free film will be shown at Home Place Park at 5:30 p.m. Parking will be available at Madison City Schools Stadium.

▼ AFTER ▼

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

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Are Replacement Windows on your MADISON CHRISTMAS PARADE - The 2021 Madison Christmas Parade, coordinated by Madison Parks and Recreation Department, will fill the streets on Dec. 11 at 5 p.m. Parade units will line up on Plaza Drive, and proceed south on Hughes Road to Insanity Complex at 100 Skate Park Drive. The parade’s rain date will be Dec. 12 at 2 p.m.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA - Santa will be coming to Madison for the annual “Breakfast with Santa” at Bob Jones High School on Dec. 18. Decked out in their elfin costumes, Bob Jones Cheerleaders will host a tasty breakfast of pancakes and the trimmings from 7:30 to 11 a.m. in the cafeteria. Guests will enjoy a great meal with the jolly ole’ soul himself, Santa Claus. Portraits with Santa Claus are free with each ticket purchase and will offer memories of a wonderful holiday experience. Craft activities and games also will be set up for the children. Tickets are $10 at the event. $7 per person advance, 3 years and under are free.

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6A • THE RECORD

December 8, 2021

Take a well deserved break from the holidays, get creative at the Madison Public Library

By STAFF REPORTS

Sorely missed in 2020, The Nutcracker features the Company’s entire roster of professional dancers, complemented by a young cast comprised of over 80 students from Huntsville Ballet School, the official school of Huntsville Ballet.

Huntsville Ballet’s Nutcracker returns to the VBC Dec. 10-12

By STAFF REPORTS

HUNTSVILLE — It is back and tickets have been going fast for the 52nd year of Huntsville Ballet’s annual production of The Nutcracker, to be performed Dec. 10-12 at the Von Braun Center’s Mark C Smith Concert Hall. Sorely missed in 2020, the production features the Company’s entire roster of professional dancers, complemented by a young cast comprised of over 80 students from Huntsville Ballet School, the official school of Huntsville Ballet.

Huntsville Ballet’s annual production of The Nutcracker is a beloved holiday tradition in the Rock-

et City. With the exception of the 2020 season, when the COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of performances, Huntsville Ballet’s production is enjoyed by thousands of loyal patrons annually.

“We’re extraordinarily grateful to be back on the stage for the 2021 holiday season and excited to present a classical portrayal of the characters that Huntsville, as well as the entire ballet world have grown to love,” said Phillip Otto, Artistic Director for Huntsville Ballet. “2020 wasn’t the same without Clara, the Sugar Plum Fairy and the land of Sweets.”

Set to Peter Tschaikovsky’s iconic

score, Huntsville Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker features the Balanchine-inspired choreography of Phillip Otto, digital set design

by UAH, costumes by Lisa Ordway and lighting by Cynthia Meyers and Marilyn West. Highlights of the production include a magical growing Christmas tree, an onstage blizzard of white snowflakes, dancing flowers and Mother Ginger’s famous skirt.

Show-times and Ticket Information: To purchase tickets visit www.huntsvilleballet.org/tickets or call 256-970-0917.

Opening Night: Friday, Dec. 10, at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 11, at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday at 1:00 p.m.

Central Valley Church to host free sing-along Dec. 10

By STAFF REPORTS MADISON - Hot chocolate, a free concert and family fun! What could be more festive?

Central Valley Church of Christ will host a free Christmas Sing-along on Friday, Dec. 10 from 6-8 PM at 9581 Madison Boulevard in Madison, Alabama.

The sing-along and concert will feature local husband and wife band, Dean.

In addition to musical entertainment, the church family will offer family-friendly games, kid crafts, hot chocolate and snacks.

One of the church’s elders, Garner Ezell of Athens said, “As families make plans for the holiday season, they will not want to miss Central Valley’s Christmas concert. It will be a fun, family-friendly, and energetic evening that will appeal to all ages.

Families will enjoy the

holiday classics and singalongs that may have them singing all the way home.”

Jackie Carter of Madison has been attending Central Valley for almost three years. She says, “I hope the community will come down and join us for our sing-along. Central Valley always hosts friendly, family-oriented events. This one will be a treat for the family!”

Central Valley say they are eager to open its doors to the community again, after a season of caution due to high COVID-19 numbers.

In spite of its short-term closure, the church members maintained close bonds with each other via online worship services and small Zoom groups on Wednesday evenings.

Central Valley Church

of Christ will celebrate its fifth year in spring 2022.

The church was planted by Central Church of Christ in Athens in 2015 to reach the local communities of east Limestone and west Madison.

For more information on the Christmas Singalong, visit Central Valley Church of Christ-Madison on Facebook or cvcfamily. org.

MADISON – During the chaotic rush of Christmas shopping and endless chores, residents can take a relaxing break with recreation at Madison Public Library.

All these sessions will occur in just one week during December: Individuals can schedule appointments online at the Makerspace Studio in Madison. Branch Manager Sarah Sledge urges people to visit the Madison Studio for free activities and demonstrations of makerspace equipment. People can decide on Christmas gifts to give, make a keepsake ornament or ask about potential projects.

In addition, The Makerspace Studio has a diverse inventory of tools for use with 3D printing. Tools include two Cricut cutters, which are Bluetooth-capable machines specializing in cutting paper materials, like vinyl and construction paper. Two heavy-duty Singer sewing machines have 12 extra presser-foot accessories.

Scheduled each month, craft time will welcome residents to an hour of creating. American Mah Jongg enthusiasts and novices can enter the classic game on Dec. 10 and 13 from 1 to 4 p.m. Contact Teresa Allison at 256-4610046 or email tallison@ hmcpl.org.

At Triana Public Library, school-age children from 6 to 12 years old will enjoy after-school adventures in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering,

Performances continue through Dec. 12 for “A Christmas Carol.”

In addition, Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theater and Academy has started the audition process for “Alice in Wonderland.”

Fantasy Playhouse continues run of ‘A Christmas Carol,’ auditions set for ‘Alice’

By GREGG PARKER Gregg@themadisonrecord.com

CHRISTMAS AT BURRITT - Holiday Magic Dinners • December 9-11 - Enjoy a holiday dinner in the upscale atmosphere of the Burritt Mansion or the family style warmth of the cabins. Go to burrittonthemountain.com for more details.

Showroom Visits By Appointment Call Us 256 489-5530

GALAXY OF LIGHTS • Galaxy of Lights Driving Nights started last week and will take place through Saturday, Jan. 1, from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tickets for Galaxy of Lights tickets are available front desk during business hours or at hsvbg.org/galaxy.

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Arts and Mathematics).

The session on Dec. 14 will run from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Siblings of all ages are welcome.

Indoor Storytime accommodates young children up to five years old.

Currently, they’re reading and listening about bears with stories, songs and rhymes. The 30-minute session on Dec. 14 will start at 9:30 a.m.

Adult Craft participants, 18 years old and older, will make no-sew fabric holiday ornaments on Dec. 8 from 3 to 4:30 p.m. The library will supply all materials. Space is limited; to register, call 256-461-0046 or visit the circulation desk.

In Triana, children can join story time on Dec. 9 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

The Time Out Book Club in Madison is studying the book, “All American Muslim Girl” by Jolie Courtney on Dec. 9 at noon.

Youngsters will gather for “Make and Take Holiday Crafts” on Dec. 9 from 4 to 5 p.m. The group will create ornaments and crafts for themselves or as Christmas gifts.

American Girl Book Club will feature Kirsten on Dec. 13 from 4 to 5 p.m.

Bringing a doll is optional.

Registration is required; call 256-461-0046.

Youth Sewing Group will use sewing machines to make a small holiday gift on Dec. 14 and 15 at 4 p.m. Participants will thread a sewing machine, sew in straight lines and complete a small project.

To register, call 256-4610046.

MADISON – Audiences can enjoy a timeless holiday performance now, while a new cast with Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theater and Academy soon will rehearse for the first production in 2022.

“A Christmas Carol” shows will be available on Dec. 10-12. The show is suitable for six-yearolds and older. The Von Braun Center Playhouse at the corner of Clinton and Monroe in downtown Huntsville will serve as the event venue.

Showtimes will be Dec. 10 at 7 p.m.; Dec. 11 at 1 and 6 p.m.; and Dec. 12 at 1 and 6 p.m. Tickets costs $21 for adults or $16 for

TUESDAY A A

children who are 18 years old and younger.

In “A Christmas Carol,” businessman Ebenezer Scrooge on Christmas Eve receives a haunting visit from the ghost of his old business partner, Jacob Marley. The classic Dickens tale portrays the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future as Scrooge undertakes a supernatural journey. He learns what truly matters in life.

Season ticket holders will receive a discount for their purchase with Fantasy Playhouse. Groups of 10 or more will earn a group discount.

For the upcoming production of “Alice in Wonderland,” auditions will be held on Dec. 12 at See PLAYHOUSE Page 7A

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THE RECORD • 7A

EarlyWorks’ Nights of Santa kicks off Monday at Children’s Museum safety and comfort of all involved.

Holding the multi-night event inside the EarlyWorks Children’s Museum will not only provide a safe environment but will also allow visitors to enjoy all that the museum has to offer.

Nights of Santa will be held nightly starting at 5 p.m. on weeknights and 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

All tickets must be pre-purchased online at www.sales.earlyworks. com/generaladmission.aspx. Cost for Nights of Santa is $12 per person for the general public and $10 per person for members. Admission is free for children under one year old.

For more information, visit www. earlyworks.com/santainfo.

SANDERS FAMILY CHRISTMAS - The Sanders Family is back in Sanders Family Christmas.

Southern Rogue Theatre Company and Burritt on the Mountain pair together to bring this traditional favorite to the community. It will be held in Burritt on the Mountain’s Old Country Church on Dec. 15-19. Return to Mount Pleasant, North Carolina, on Christmas Eve of 1941. Reverend Oglethorpe has invited the Sanders to the Baptist Church to sing and witness, thereby getting the congregation into the down-home holiday spirit before the boys, including one of the Sanders’ own, ship off to World War II. The Congregation will hear more than two-dozen Christmas carols, many of them vintage hymns, and hilarious yuletide stories from the more or less devout Sanders family members.

Performances: Dec. 15 – 18 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 18-19 at 2:30 p.m. Go to burrittonthemountain. com for more details.

Christmas Card Lane Through December 26 Downtown Madison (Church and Front St) No Admission Charged www.artsmadison.org Christmas Card Lane is an outdoor, life-size card exhibit located in the Madison’s historic district.

You’ll find whimsical, traditional, and religious themes among the more than thirty designs on display. Drive along Church and Front Street, in the historic downtown neighborhood, to enjoy this visual holiday delight! The cards will be illuminated for 4 hours after dark each night in the month of December. During the day, you may park on Main Street and stroll the sidewalks to admire the details of each design.

North Star Limited Train Ride December 8-9 North Alabama Railroad Museum 694 Chase Road, Huntsville www.northalabamarailroadmuseum.com The North Star Limited allows our guests to experience an evening adventure under the wintery stars. Of course, Santa will be on board, spending quality, one-on-one time with each child and their family. The ride lasts approximately 45 minutes, allowing each child to tell Santa everything he or she wants for Christmas. All children on board the North Star Limited will receive a gift from Santa, and every passenger on board, both adults and children, will have a snack waiting for them when they arrive. Children are encouraged to wear their pajamas, a unique experience for this ride.

Polar Express Christmas Tree Trail Through December 31 Downtown Madison Walk among an enchanting display of Christmas trees day or night.

Rocket City Christmas Light Show Through January 2 Starting: 5 p.m. nightly Toyota Field 500 Trash Panda Way, Madison Admission charged www.milb.com/rocket-city

Principals

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Skating In The Park Through January 17 Huntsville Museum of Art 300 Church Street Admission charged www.hsvmuseum.org A family-friendly tradition will return just in time for the holidays this season. Join the Huntsville Museum of Art in their 10th annual Skating in the Park.

Skate on the outdoor rink in Big Spring Park and enjoy special events throughout the season. Follow Skating in the Park on social media for the latest updates on special events and hours.

Tinsel Trail Through January 2 Nightly from dusk until midnight Big Spring International Park 200 Church Street, Huntsville No admission charged www.tinseltrail.com Big Spring Park takes on a holiday glow with over 300 elaborately decorated trees. Enjoy a festive stroll through the park. Stop to watch the ice skaters. Enjoy a hot beverage or purple cup drink along the way. Create a full experience by adding dinner at one of downtown Huntsville’s many restaurants.

Santa Train Ride December 9 North Alabama Railroad Museum 694 Chase Road, Huntsville www.northalabamarailroadmuseum.com Come on out and see the train decorated inside and out. Talk and visit with Santa on the train and let the little ones have their picture made with him. And surprise, all the good youngsters will get a special treat from Santa before the day is done. They have expanded the schedule to try and make sure everyone gets to ride that wants to. These leisurely Santa Train rides last approximately forty minutes.

Call (256) 851-NARM for more information.

Friday Flurries Through December 17 Recurring weekly on Friday 6-8 p.m.

Bridge Street Town Centre

Schools in August 2016 as a teacher at Mill Creek Elementary. He served two years in leadership there in the Madison City Aspiring Administrative Program (MAAP) before being named Assistant Principal at Heritage Elementary in July 2019. He served eight years in the Madison County Schools District.

Wilson said he “fell in love with Mill Creek and community” when he first served there and “prayed often I would get the opportunity to make his way back to Mill Creek.

“To me, leadership is a service. It’s not a position. I’m excited I will get

Christmas Open House December 11 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Holmes Street United Methodist Church 501 Holmes Ave NE, Huntsville No admission charged On the night of the Twickenham Historic District’s annual luminaries, Holmes St. Methodist Church will feature a live,outdoor nativity and the decorated church will be open for refreshments. Stop by to warm up and add to this festive experience.

Spirit Of Christmas Past Luminaries December 11 5 - 9 pm Twickenham Historic District Downtown Huntsville Admission charged www.twickenhamhomestour.com The Twickenham Historic District will be aglow with luminaries, trees and front doors glistening with holiday decorations.

Nerdy Noel December 12 2-6 p.m.

Straight to Ale Brands 2610 Clinton Avenue, Huntsville No admission charged Get ready to enjoy nerdy/pop culture shopping, cosplay, door prizes and beer.

to go back to serve students, staff and faculty to build on its success.”

Board members afterwards joined Dr. Nichols in congratulating the principal promotions and thanking outgoing principals for their years of service to their schools and to the school system.

“This district is blessed to have this kind of talent to follow these leaders,” said Board President Tim Holtcamp.

“You all bring a great track record of success. I’m looking forward to what you will be bringing to your schools.” said Board member Greg Hulsey.

boding as the traditional play but has an imaginative, upbeat atmosphere.

Jacinda Swinehart is director for the show. Nici Patton is producer.

The staff will expect actors to be ‘off book’ for the first blocking rehearsal of ‘Alice’ on Jan. 4, 2022.

Show dates for ‘Alice’ will be Feb. 18 at 9 a.m., noon and 7 p.m., along with Feb. 19 and 20 at 1 and 6 p.m. Tickets cost $21 for adults. Youth (3 to 18 years old) tickets are $16.

Fantasy Playhouse’s address is 3312 Long Ave. SW in Huntsville. For information, call 256-539-6829, email info@ fantasyplayhouse.com or visit fantasyplayhouse.com.

from the Consulate’s Office a week and a half before the birthday celebration.

“We quickly changed his party date which was initially planned for Dec. 4,” McDonald said.

“Luckily everyone involved was able to work with the rushed details and we were able to pull it off. We told Major over Thanksgiving as a family as we wanted him to know beforehand that he was receiving the honor.”

Although this was a birthday celebration, McDonald planned a variety of recognitions of Wooten’s World War II service as part of the celebration. She nominated Wooten for a Flags of Honor flag as well.

The flag, presented to Wooten at the party, was designed to include his three brothers as well as Wooten, all served in WWII. One of the three brothers perished in the war.

“Jim Lynch with Flags of Honor saw Major at a Bob Jones football game.

Knowing his age and that he was a WWII veteran, Jim asked if I would fill out an application for his flag which would mainly tell about his service,” McDonald said. “They made his flag in a matter of weeks to make it happen for him. It was beautiful workmanship. He loved it.”

Wooten was also hon-

M adison RECORD THE

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Major Wooten with his birthday cake.

ored with Rep. Mike Ball’s reading of a proclamation from Gov. Kay Ivey, citing his heroic service and guests were entertained by a performance of a song written personally about Wooten by Nashville songwriter Wood Newton in partnership with Freedom Sings.

“Wood and Major met about a month ago to write the song,” McDonald said.

“Knowing how well they got along, I reached out to Wood who lives in Nashville and he gladly drove back down to sing his song for his birthday.”

Wooten was in the hospital with heart failure in April 2020 and also battled COVID in 2021, so his 105 birthday celebration deserved the extra mile. Besides the special guests, McDonald decorated the hall at Mt. Zion Church with photos and memorabilia of Wooten’s service and his life, including his love for Alabama football.

McDonald feels like the task was an easy one for the Pop Pop she loves.

“I spent all 47 years of my like knowing this man, how special he is and what he is made of,” McDonald said. “He is full of love, concern and care for his family and friends.

He exists today for his family. To know him is to love him. I could not be more proud to call him my Pop Pop.” “After the honors, guests were invited to partake in a cake decorated with Wooten’s service photos. Wooten sliced the cake while showing his lovable personality to the 150 guests present to celebrate with him. Wooten just took it all in.

“What did I do to deserve all of this?” Wooten said.

Oh, and his wish when he blew out the cake.

“To be here for 106,” Wooten said.

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Holiday Light Show Through December 18 10 minute shows at 6, 7 and 8 PM Bridge Street Town Centre 365 The Bridge Street, Suite 106 www.bridgestreethuntsville.com Bigger and better this holiday season, the open-air shopping center will be spreading cheer through a holiday themed light show at the Christmas tree near Cinemark.

continued from page 6A

2 p.m. (doors open at 1:30 p.m.) and on Dec. 13 at 5 and 7 p.m. (with doors open at 4:30 p.m.). Callbacks will follow immediately and will be invitation only.

Fantasy Playhouse staff encourages everyone to practice diversity and inclusion. A judging panel, ignoring race, ethnicity or ability, will consider the person for a role. For questions, email auditions@fantasyplayhouse.com.

This theatrical interpretation of Lewis Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland” delivers excitement and bizarre creatures from the original story. Residents of Wonderland assist Alice in ‘taking her turn’ for happiness. However, this version of ‘Alice’ is not as dark and fore-

continued from page 1A

365 The Bridge Street www.bridgestreethuntsville.com There’s SNOW place like Bridge Street Town Centre, especially during the holidays! Experience festive flurries on the north end near the fountains.

continued from page 3A

Freeman came to MCS in 2005 as a special education teacher at Heritage. She became a reading coach/ instructional partner at Heritage in 2009 and served as school counselor at Heritage from 2014-2017.

She served a short term as assistant principal at Rainbow Elementary before being named assistant principal at Madison Elementary in 2018.

Freeman thanked MES Principal Jamie Golliver for mentoring her and vowed she is “excited to embark on this journey to serve as principal at Horizon.

Wilson came to Madison City

Playhouse

EarlyWorks is producing a socially distance option for Christmas fun this year with their “Nights of Santa”.

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HUNTSVILLE – Nights of Santa is set to return to EarlyWorks Children’s Museum, bringing with it all the magic of the holiday season while keeping safety protocols in place. From Monday, Dec.13 through Thursday, Dec. 23, children are invited to visit with Santa Claus and to enjoy an immersive holiday experience in downtown Huntsville.

During Nights of Santa, the jolly old elf himself will be on hand each night to listen to children as they share their wish lists. To ensure the safety of everyone Santa will visit with children while being protected

by Santa’s magic snow globe.

No visit to Santa would be complete without meeting his North Pole elves. Additional family-friendly activities adding to the whimsical fun include nightly snowfalls, making holiday crafts, a holiday themed experiment in the all-new Tinker Lab, mingling with costumed characters like the Grinch and Olaf, decorating a fresh made gingerbread cookie, mailing letters to Santa and shopping in Santa’s gift shop. Kids will have plenty of room to play and enjoy the spirit of the season.

A limited number of tickets for the event will be offered online and will adhere to EarlyWorks safety protocols. This will be a timed entry, limited capacity event to ensure the

Jordan Ln NW

By STAFF REPORTS

8A • THE RECORD

December 8, 2021

Snapshot CHRISTMAS IN MADISON - Here are some photos by William Aycock of the the Polar Express Christmas Tree Trail illumination on Main Street on Thursday. The special event included music by the Madison City Community Orchestra (above), the reading of the “The Polar Express” by Madison Public Library staff, and the official lighting of the tree trail. The public is invited to visit the tree trail throughout the Christmas season. Sponsors were the historical society and the City of Madison. After the tree lighting, downtown merchants presented the first annual Wassail Fest. The public was invited to enjoy samples of residents’ best recipes and vote for their favorite. See more upcoming events starting on page 5A.

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The Mag of Christmasic Madison’s histori c downtown will come to Christmas events life with festive and attractions

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Check out these two great special publications online!

UAH wraps up season campaign at NCAA South Regional

INSIDE SPORTS

Runners retreat Twenty-nine members of the James Clemens cross country team underwent a five-day life-changing learning experience as the student-athletes attended the mid-July Brevard Distance Runners Camp.

Page 2B

By STAFF REPORTS bob0873@yahoo.com

The Bob Jones boys swim squad finished runner-up at the AHSAA State Swim Meet held in Auburn.

Michael Winstone The extraordinary experience of Michael Winstone will certainly pay dividends for the AYSO United Soccer program. Page 3B

HISTORY

Bob Jones brings home trophies and medals from state swim meet

By BOB LABBE bob0873@yahoo.com

History with John Rankin Check out this week’s history column from Madison’s historian John Rankin and discover the city’s interesting past.

Page 7B

KIDS & CHURCH

AUBURN - The Bob Jones swim team received its stamp of approval for the 2021 season by taking runner-up trophies in both boys and girls divisions at the Alabama High School Athletic Association State Swim Meet held in Auburn.

The Patriots brought home medals (top three positions) in 12 events including four gold medals. Top individual performances for the event came from sophomores Samantha Chan with four medals, Michael Tretyakov with three performances for medals and junior Riley Groves with four medals. Eighth grade standout Meli Mbuko also pulled in three medals. Chan won state titles in both the 200-yard IM and 100-yard butterfly. Tretyakov took top honor in the 100yard freestyle.

“This was our largest group to qualify for the State Meet in my tenure at Bob Jones as we lost several seniors off last year’s team so making top three

would be great for the boys, but we setup ourselves to finish strong as Michael did a wonderful job in his events,” said Wade Thaxton head coach of Bob Jones.

“Our girls were third last season and we finished just a mere 20 points from first place this year and all of our points were scored by underclassmen this time around,” he added. “Samantha is the hardest worker I’ve ever seen. She set school records in both of her medal events and is the first individual state champ in at least 10 years here at Bob Jones. We also set new school records in two of our relay races.”

James Clemens and Madison Academy also came home with medal performances at the State Meet. The Jets of James Clemens had two top three showings including one gold medal from senior John Choung in the boys 100-yd breaststroke and a third place finish by Cade McComb in the 100-yd boys freestyle. Bella Daniel of Madison Academy contributed two medal performances for the Class 4A school

with bronze medals in both the 100-yd breaststroke and 200-yd IM. “Holding both of our trophies for runner-up was a surreal moment as there’s nothing like it,” added Thaxton. “With much of our team returning next year, the future looks bright.”

Team scoring in Class 6-7A: Boys- 1. Huntsville 399, 2. Bob Jones 209, 6. James Clemens 159 and 26. Sparkman 11; Girls1. Huntsville 321, 2. Bob Jones 301, 17. James Clemens 41 and 26. Sparkman 10. In Class 1-5A: Boys- 1. Randolph 341 and 5.

Madison Academy 90; Girls- 1.

Randolph 211 and 9. Madison Academy 76.

The finals race results with medal performances included Class 6-7A: Boys- 200-yd medley relay, 3. Bob Jones, 1:37.32, Bryson Tesseneer (Sr.), Justin Roh (Fr.), Riley Groves (Jr.), Boone Ramsey (Sr.); 200-yd IM, 3. John Choung (Sr.), James Clemens, 1:57.31; 50-yd freestyle, 3. Michael Tretyakov (So.), Bob Jones, 21.32; 100-yd butterfly, 2. Riley Groves (Jr.), See SWIM Page 2B

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

Pages 5B and 6B

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The Bob Jones Lady Patriots finished runner-up at the AHSAA State Swim Meet held in Auburn.

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PENSACOLA, Fla. - The University of Alabama in Huntsville volleyball team made the program’s seventh NCAA tournament on Thursday afternoon at the 2021 NCAA South Region Championships, as the sixth-seeded Chargers fell to third-seeded Nova Southeastern by a score of 3-0 (22-25, 22-25, 16-25). UAH ends the 2021 season at 21-10, while NSU improves to 25-5.

Junior Molly Presnell led the Chargers in the NCAA tournament matchup with Nova Southeastern with a team-high 10 kills, .333 hitting percentage and six digs.

Senior Sabrina Duncan also had a strong allaround performance with a team-leading 22 assists and six digs to go along with three kills.

The Chargers offense featured six players with three kills or more, while four of UAH’s players notched four digs or more.

UAH started off strong in the first set holding a fivepoint advantage at 17-12 to force a Nova Southeastern timeout, but the Sharks fought back to win the opening frame 25-22.

The Chargers made a late push to cut the Sharks lead to 23-22 in the second stanza prior to NSU scoring backto-back points for the 25-22 win to extend its match lead to 2-0. Nova Southeastern went on to take the third 2516 to seal the three-set win for the Sharks.

Nova Southeastern will now advance to play the winner of second-seeded Tampa and seventh-seeded Palm Beach Atlantic on Friday.

The Chargers have won 20 or more games in four consecutive fall seasons, which is the first time the program has achieved the feat since a string of 12 straight 20-plus win seasons from 1990-2001.

UAH has also been to the NCAA tournament in backto-back fall campaigns.

The Division II Conference Commissioner’s Association unveiled its All-South Region honorees, and the UAH volleyball team was represented by Kendall Scharbert as a First Team All-South Region honoree.

2B • THE RECORD

December 8, 2021

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DREW BLACKSTON SIGNS - Drew Blackston, third from left, stands with his parents, Andy and Stacy Blackston, and sister, Reese Blackston, during his recent signing of a college scholarship. Photo- Glen Laird, Madison Academy Madison Academy senior basketball player Drew Blackston signed a college scholarship with Trevecca Nazarene University of Nashville. The Trojans’ program is a NCAA Div. II school. Blackston, son of longtime Mustangs’ head coach Andy Blackston, has been a team captain and named to All-Area teams and All-Area Academic squads during his tenure with the Mustangs. He led the 2021 team with the highest free throw percentage, most assists, most steals and most charges taken. The shooting guard chose the Trojans over several other schools including Rochester University and Auburn-Montgomery. “I chose Trevecca Nazarene because it’s a place where I can play what I love and also have the ability to grow in my faith. Coach (Omar) Mance and the staff made it feel like home and I couldn’t be more excited,” said Blackston.

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Members of the James Clemens cross country team experienced what has been called “a special place” at the Brevard Distance Runners Camp in North Carolina this past summer. Photos by Drew Bell, James Clemens High

Jets cross country team has unique experience at runners camp in North Carolina mountains

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By BOB LABBE bob0873@yahoo.com BREVARD, N.C. - Twenty-nine members of the James Clemens cross country team underwent a five-day life-changing learning experience as the student-athletes attended the mid-July Brevard Distance Runners Camp in the small mountain town of Brevard, N.C. designed to teach the young athletes to grow as athletes and as young men and women and become leaders in their communities and face challenges each are not familiar with.

As many as 400 people from all over the country made the odyssey to the camp hosted at Brevard College, a 120-acre campus located in Transylvania County of the Tar Heel State. Campers stayed in college dorms, which do not have air-conditioning.

Meals were all-you-caneat served cafeteria style in the college dining hall.

The overall experience is more than a training camp where athletes take to the numerous running trails among the beautiful surroundings of nature.

Team head coach Drew Bell had familiarity of the camp as his experience of attending the camp led to his 27th time he has attended either as a runner or coach. “It’s a special place,” Bell.

“I loved it as it was a great way to spend time with teammates and utilize the team building exercises that were pro-

vided for us in classroom settings,” said senior and boys’ team captain Tyler Gohlich, who attended his second trip to the mountains of North Carolina.

“The camp helped me with my leadership roles and gave me knowledge in that area to help me with my teammates.”

Sydney Freeman, a senior co-captain of the girls squad for the Jets, experienced her first Brevard Camp and said the camp was super fun for her and was a special building time for her both physically and mentally. “This took us out of our comfort zones and the running trails were nothing like we have in Alabama.

When you finished a run, you feel as you’ve accomplished something as we had morning and afternoon trail runs.”

The trails utilized by the camp are simply spectacular in natural beauty and challenging to all levels of runners. The camp included structured break-out classroom type sessions away from the trails. Guest speakers and group sessions taught running skills and life-changing thought patterns.

“The team building exercises were great as each helped build mental preparation and most of the camp counselors are college runners and they spoke on running in general, college recruiting and just overall college experiences,” said Gohlich.

“We had fun togeth-

The week-long retreat into the pristine wilderness of the Pisgah National Forest was a learning camp of more than just running the eye-opening trails within the forest, but as life-changing settings on life teachings. er and more than just running the trails,” added Freeman. “We went through exercise classes, played dodgeball and basketball, listened to special guest speakers and attended an ice cream social.”

The Brevard Distance Runners Camp is about training, learning and experiences within a

motherlode of natural resources. An incredible visual look into the camp and surrounding scenery along with a more in-depth look at the experiences of the student-athletes and coaches can be seen in the upcoming December issue of the Madison Living Magazine, available free throughout Madison.

Swim

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Bob Jones, 49.18; 100-yd freestyle, 1. Michael Tretyakov (So.), Bob Jones, 46.88, 3. Cade McComb (So.), James Clemens, 47.24; 100-yd backstroke, 2. Riley Groves (Jr.), Bob Jones 57.40; 100-yd breaststroke, 1. John Choung (Sr.), James Clemens, 57.48; 400-yd freestyle relay, 2. Bob Jones, 3:12.75, Bryson Tesseneer (Sr.), Riley Groves (Jr.), Boone Ramsey (Sr.), Michael Tretyakov (So.).

Class 6-7A Girls- 200-yd medley, 2.

Bob Jones, 1:48.32, Abby Chan (7), Danielle Nguyen (Fr.), Samantha Chan (So.), Constance Wang (Jr.);

200-yd IM, 1. Samantha Chan (So.), Bob Jones, 2:06.59; 50-yd freestyle, 2. Meli Mbuko (8), Bob Jones, 24.17; 100-yd butterfly, 1. Samantha Chan (So.), Bob Jones, 55:00; 200-yd freestyle relay, 1. Bob Jones, 1:38.89, Regan Baker (Jr.), Lucy Ramsey (Sr.), Constance Wang (Jr.), Meli Mbuko (8); 400-yd freestyle relay, 2. Bob Jones, 3:34.90, Regan Baker (Jr.), Peyton Brady (So.), Meli Mbuko (8), Samantha Chan (So.).

Class 1-5A Girls- 200-yd IM, 3.

Bella Daniel, Madison Academy, 2:22.05; 100-yd breaststroke, 3. Bella Daniel, Madison Academy, 1:13.80.

Bob Jones swim team head coach Wade Thaxton holds the hardware his squads won at the AHSAA State Swim Meet as the Patriots took runner-up trophies in both boys and girls divisions.

December 8, 2021

THE RECORD • 3B

Winstone brings extraordinary experience to role as director of coaching for area AYSO

By BOB LABBE bob0873@yahoo.com MADISON - The extraordinary experience of Michael Winstone will certainly pay dividends for the AYSO United Soccer program. The 29-year old Winstone has been hired as Director of Coaching for AYSO in the Madison-Huntsville area.

“I’m extremely excited to get started as the AYSO is a national program and we have that organization’s backing here locally and being in this position is an important part of the AYSO leadership,” said Winstone.

His position with AYSO United is making sure each and every coach within the program follows the strong philosophy of teach every player the proper guidelines to use on the soccer field and away from the action. Having the player philosophy in place is an essential portion of how the youth players are involved in the organization as a player.

“This sets the tone for our philosophy as positive coaching and positive reinforcement at all times helps the players strive for success and not just in winning matches,” said Winstone.

“Winnie,” as many call him, grew up in Cambridge, England as both of his parents were heavily involved in soccer and he began to play with his two brothers in their backyard. He strapped on

his soccer shoes and played every opportunity possible. He soon made his way through school and club play and began to stand above many of his fellow players in his enormous skills. He gravitated to the goalkeeper position where he excelled and was introduced to his youth professional contract in 2009. He attended the prestigious Histon Academy for five years and signed to attend college and play soccer in the United States here in the local area at the University of Alabama-Huntsville (UAH).

He became a team captain and won All-Conference honors for the Chargers’ nationally ranked program from 2012-2015. While playing soccer for UAH he also earned his bachelors’ degree in Communication Arts carrying a 3.3 grade point average. He feels his education is perfect for his new position as communication with everyone involved is essential to success.

“I believe parent education is just as important as player education,” stated Winstone. “Coaches, players and parents must all work together and parents have to understand many times it takes patience as coaching is a work in progress.

Parent understanding is hugely important and is absolutely vital. I believe in open, honest communication is the key to building a grand program.”

Winstone and his wife, Maddie, who is a contractor specialist, have a four-month

Michael Winstone has years of experience both as a player and coach in the sport of soccer. He has been hired as Director of Coaching for AYSO. His coverage area will include youth teams 8-19U. old child. Both have fulltime jobs and realize having the correct balance in life is important for everyone associated with them. Winstone added he’s been coaching since ending his education as after his stay in Huntsville he had a stint in Charlotte, N.C. from 2019-2021 both as a coach for a professional team and youth teams. He made the move back to North Alabama and settled into the community for a second time.

According to Joe Mullins of the local AYSO, a coach was needed in the position as a full time director and a nationwide search was put on job postings. Mullins added, “Once we chatted with Michael we knew we had someone special. His diverse playing and coaching background, along with his life experiences as a father and husband, were exactly what our members needed in this position.”

In all, Winstone is responsible for up to 20 teams, comprised of 25 coaches and

400 players in the immediate area. Add parents to each of the players and Winstone knows he has many facets to his new job he will have to face straight up.

Winstone is planning on adding a new item of coaching in the spring as he’s formulated free technical sessions for players. The planned eight-week sessions of 60-90-minutes each are designed to get players on the ball more than normal so not only can they learn more about the game, but enjoy their time on the field.

He’s already been busy in his position as he recently hosted a Thanksgiving Soccer Camp at Bob Jones High and coached a U19 team based in Atlanta. He took both boys and girls teams to the recent State Cup in Foley with two of the teams losing in the finals while one finished in third place and a fourth team finished fourth in its division.

“My passion is to be on the field, on the grass,” added Winstone.

Late push by Mississippi College defeats Chargers 73-70 in Saturday road trip game

By STAFF REPORTS bob0873@yahoo.com

UAH will be back in action on Monday, Dec. 13, when the team welcomes West Georgia for the first GSC game in Huntsville of the season. grow to as many as 14 in the second half at 51-37 at the 16:01 mark, but the hosts would gradually chip away at the deficit and eventually pulled into a tie at 65-65 with 3:32 left in the ballgame. Shulman would answer with a 3-pointer to put the Chargers back in front, but from that point MC would outscore the guests 8-2 and now allow another field goal from UAH in securing the 73-70 victory.

The Chargers would finish the game shooting 57.4 percent and held

MC to a 39.7 percent shooting mark, but the Choctaws would make 12 3-pointers and build up a 33-8 advantage in points off turnovers which proved to be a key difference in the contest.

UAH will now have the upcoming week off for finals and will be back in action on Monday, Dec. 13, when the team welcomes West Georgia for the first GSC game in Huntsville of the season.

Tip-off at Kelly Court at Spragins Hall is slated for 7:30 p.m.

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CLINTON, Miss. - The University of Alabama in Huntsville men’s basketball team dropped a 73-70 decision to host Mississippi College on Saturday to wrap up the road swing through the Magnolia State. The Chargers fall to 7-4 (0-2 Gulf South Conference), while the Choctaws improve to 3-4 (1-1 GSC).

UAH was led in the game by Luke Burnett who went 6-for-11 from 3-point land on his way to scoring 20, and he was one of three players who finished in double figures for the Chargers as he was joined by Max Shulman who mad five treys to score 17 and Chaney Johnson who chipped in with 11.

Shulman and CJ Williamson paced the Chargers on the glass with seven rebounds, and each of Shulman, Williamson, and Nylan Thomas handed out a team-high three assists.

The Chargers quickly opened up an eight-point advantage by going in front 10-2 after a Burnett 3-pointer at the 16:46 mark, and the visitors would go on to shoot an impressive 72.7 percent in the period to hold a 43-32 lead at the break after the reigning GSC Player of the Week scored 17 of his 20 points in the half.

The advantage for UAH would

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UAH women’s basketball team tripped up by Mississippi College, returns home on Monday

By STAFF REPORTS bob0873@yahoo.com CLINTON, Miss. - The University of Alabama in Huntsville women’s basketball team fell on the road on Saturday afternoon at Mississippi College 83-44, in the second outing of a two-game weekend road trip through the Magnolia State. The Chargers drop to 1-6 while MC improves to 5-3.

Miajah Bullock put up a teamhigh 10 points capitalizing on her trips to the free-throw line going a perfect 8-for-8 from the charity stripe. Sloan Mann led the Chargers on the glass, grabbing six rebounds in the contest and she also dished out four assists for good measure.

UAH jumped out to a 6-point lead in the games early minutes but after action at both ends of the court, the Choctaws held a 15-11 advantage at the close of the game’s open-

ing quarter. Then, a 20-2 run by the hosts in the middle of the second frame saw the halftime score read 40-19.

The Blue & White would go 83.3 percent from the free-throw line in the third quarter in a push to cut into the Mississippi College advantage and the Chargers would go on to hold the Choctaws to a 37.5 percent shooting performance in the fourth stanza, their lowest of the day. However, MC would ultimately close out the contest to claim a 83-44 victory in Clinton.

For the game, UAH hit 31.8 percent of its attempts from the floor

while the Choctaws turned in a 45.9 percent shooting performance.

Mississippi College won the rebounding battle by a 38-25 margin and capitalized on second chance points winning that category 23-8.

Taylor Ben put up 17 points for the Choctaws while Ally Alford, Kyiah Julian,and Amelia Bell were also in double figures. Bell led the way for MC with nine rebounds.

UAH will look to turn the page returning to Huntsville Monday night, Dec. 13, as they host West Georgia to continue GSC play.

Tip-off at Kelly Court at Spragins Hall is set for 5:30 p.m.

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SCHOOLS

4B

December 8, 2021

Bob Jones AFJROTC secures top rating in comprehensive unit inspection

By GREGG PARKER Gregg@themadisonrecord.com MADISON – Achieving the highest rating for a unit, the Air Force Junior ROTC or AFJROTC Cadet Corps at Bob Jones High School earned an overall inspection assessment rating of “Exceeds Standards.”

Cadets Manfred Rosero, a sophomore, and Shaniya Jacobs-Lanier, a senior, were awarded “Top Performer” certificates and ribbons for their outstanding and unwavering dedication to the unit.

“Congratulations on a job well done! We’re proud of each and every Blue Knight cadet!”

Dr. Maj. Melissa M. Lacey said.

Lacey is Senior Aerospace Science Instructor at Bob Jones.

Retired Chief Master Sgt. Ellis Clark coaches AFJROTC cadets for archery, drill, honor guard and marksmanship.

Leaders schedule a unit inspection every three years. On Nov. 15, retired U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sergeant Bruce Kenney conducted the inspection. Kennedy is Region 8 Director of HQ AFJROTC at Maxwell AFB. All day at Bob Jones, Kenney inspected uniforms, drill performance, regulation compliance, financial management, classroom instruction, inventory accuracy, extracurricular activities, community service and cadet leadership. “He recognized many areas for exceeding standards, including cadet ownership, cadet unit mission briefing, and cadet drill sequence,” Lacey said.

“Chief Master Sgt. Ellis Clark and I are overjoyed to receive the highest rating awarded for AFJROTC unit evaluations,” Lacey said. “However, we were not surprised with the outcome of the inspection. We, along with the cadets, worked really hard to ensure that we not only met all requirements but knew with our stellar AFJROTC pro-

gram at Bob Jones that we exceeded standards in several areas,” Lacey said.

During the inspection, Capt.

Jackson Walker Ford, a Bob Jones senior, worked as Inspector General and coordinated most cadet-run aspects. “(My) biggest task was to articulate the cadet briefing presented to Chief Master Sergeant Bruce Kenney. That included delegating cadets to present slides and setting up dry-runs so we could refine our presentation skills.”

In addition, Ford focused on the self-assessment checklist that is logistically based and required for all units. The checklist has 10 sections, ranging from equipment management to unit operations. “I had to memorize all aspects of said checklist, in case of questioning from Chief Master Sgt. Kenney.

It was quite tedious; nonetheless, we met all standards without a problem,” Ford said.

To earn the high grade “by being leaders we’ve become but also leaders we’ve been molded into with the help of our amazing instructors,” Ford said. “We couldn’t have earned this honor without Major Melissa Lacey and Chief Master Sergeant Ellis Clark. They constantly strive to make us into better cadets -- more importantly, better citizens every single day.”

“I personally enjoy the sense of community that surrounds our unit. No matter what you need, someone is willing to step up (with) a helping hand. We pride ourselves on being an open and accepting corps. No matter who or what you identify as, we will accept you with a smile and open arms,” Ford said.

“We (cadets) set ourselves apart by investing time and emotion into every cadet so they can do the same to someone outside our unit and make an impact no matter where they are or who they’re with. That’s why I enjoy AFJROTC,” Ford said.

Retired U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sergeant Bruce Kenney addresses cadets at Bob Jones High School during his inspection assessment of the unit.

Cadets at Bob Jones react to unit’s stellar ratings

By GREGG PARKER Gregg@themadisonrecord.com MADISON – Cadets in the Air Force Junior ROTC at Bob Jones High School remain in gratitude after their unit excelled in inspection assessment. Their overall rating was “Exceeds Standards.”

Lt. Col. Ethan Andrew Fury, a Bob Jones senior, confirmed that everyone involved in the inspection was doing their part correctly. He worked on the cadets’ inspection briefing. “The cadets who were briefing did a lot of ‘dry-runs’ before the actual briefing with Chief Master Sergeant Bruce Kenney. In dry-runs, we critiqued each other to brief our subjects better,” Fury said.

More than half of the cadets are new to AFJROTC but remained calm in answering Kenney’s questions.

“We received this honor because we are just great cadets,” Fury said. “Not only do we have a firm understanding of our cadet knowledge, but we have a great understanding of each other and our unit.”

Also a senior, Capt. Quincey Amacher prepared for assessment by working closely with the Wing Commander and Inspector General.

“I prepared slides for the briefing and helped to make sure everyone got their part done,” Amacher said.

Amacher credits her unit’s stellar rating with their communication skills. “I made sure to do my part and communicate when there was an issue with those around me,” she said.

In AFJROTC, Amacher enjoys becoming acquainted with younger cadets and familiarizing herself with the entire unit.

During inspection, Cadet Shaniya Jacobs-Lanier received the “Outstanding Cadet” award, only presented every three years from the inspector. “A senior cadet prepares for inspec-

Chief Master Sergeant Bruce Kenney inspects the troops as Lieutenant Colonel/Cadet Ethan Fury, Cadet Wing CC, accompanies the activity. tion with weeks of studying cadet knowledge and helping underclassmen cadets,” Lanier said.

As a staff member, Lanier communicated progress of their young chapter of Kitty Hawk Air Society. As Elite Knights commander, Lanier reviewed the inaugural class’ activities, including pledge period; induction ceremony; service or fundraising projects; and challenges in hosting Trunk or Treat during COVID-19.

“Our instructors will get us back on track, but the corps is full of natural-born leaders willing to overcome challenges. Our ‘One Team’ rule gives each cadet a sense of importance.

Encouraging, dedicated and hardworking are just a few traits that earned us the honor of exceeding standards,” Lanier said.

In AFJROTC, she appreciates the sense of family. “We all support each other in our accomplishments, regardless of our personal feelings,” Lanier said.

“The phrase ‘No man left behind’ motivates us. If a cadet cannot physically make it, we make a way. Everyone is loved and appreciated, regardless if they stay in the unit for all semesters or only a few,” Lanier said.

St. John Paul II Catholic High School names Sister Tonette Sperando, O.S.B., president

By STAFF REPORTS HUNTSVILLE - St. John Paul II Catholic High Schoolannounced last week the appointment of Sister Tonette Sperando, O.S.B., as the school’s president.

St. John Paul II Catholic High School is a college preparatory school for grades 9-12, is located on Old Madison Pike in Huntsville near the Madison city limits.

According to statement from the school, Sister Tonette, an experienced professional educator and leader, will focus on community outreach and development, while Headmaster Dr. Jeremiah Russell continues to steer academics and operations.

Rodney Kreps, Board CoChair, cites the appointment as a timely milestone in the

Sister Tonette Sperando, O.S.B. school’s 25th Anniversary year. He foresees “an extraordinary team to continue the school’s 25-year reputation for faith-centered academic excellence, while also focusing on the future development of the institution in our growing community.”

Sister Tonette will take office July 1, 2022, with participation in various school events throughout this academic year, including the State-of-theSchool Address, Baccalaureate Mass, and Commencement.

Sister Tonette, a Birmingham native, has been a professed member of the Benedictine Sisters of Cullman, Alabama, at Sacred Heart Monastery for 31 years.

Professionally, she served as teacher and Principal at Sacred Heart School in Cullman and Principal and President at Holy Spirit School in Tuscaloosa. She has also held key leadership roles in her Benedictine community as Treasurer, Development Director, and, most recently, Prioress.

Co-Chair Kreps notes that these experiences “bring her

significant resources and gifts to implementing the growth of the school and strengthening its role in the Catholic community in North Alabama and the community at-large.”

Dr. Russell said he looks forward to “this exciting opportunity to work alongside Sister Tonette in carrying out our school’s mission.” He notes especially her “years of Catholic school administrative experience and her deep faith, rooted in Benedictine spirituality, that will anchor us and invigorate our broader faith community.”

“Catholic education has been both a profession and a passion of mine throughout the years,” Sister Tonette said, “and it is humbling, exciting and an absolute joy to be returning to this ministry in North Alabama.”

Reflecting on her leadership

philosophy, she notes that “we are a relational people, called to promote unity among ourselves, the larger church, and the world at-large.”

She continues, “Together, as we listen with the ‘ear of our hearts’ as instructed by St. Benedict, we will hear God’s voice calling the St. John Paul II Catholic High School community into its future, and I am delighted to be a part of that future.”

Founded in 1996 as Catholic High School, St. John Paul II Catholic High School is sponsored by the Diocese of Birmingham in Alabama. The school has met the requirements established by the AdvancED Accreditation Commission, is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, and is a member of the National Catholic Educational Association.

Midtown elementary hosts 130 students in Queen’s Quest Chess Tournament

By GREGG PARKER Gregg@themadisonrecord.com MADISON – Midtown Elementary School served as the venue for the year’s first team and individual over-the-board tournament on Nov. 15.

“Our newest school in the Madison system was designed for events just like this, offering plenty of room for players and families to spread out and enjoy the day. It was fabulous,” Ranae Bartlett said. Bartlett is Executive Director of Madison City Chess League.

“Thank you, Midtown, for being an excellent host, and thank you Nadia Sosonkina for taking awards ceremony photos,” Bartlett said.

Outside the cafeteria in the playground, tournament spon-

sor Lockheed Martin set up a cornhole game. Lockheed Martin held a silent auction of five unique chess sets in three-dimensional format as a fundraiser for MCCL. “We lost a few players after registration due to illness or quarantine but ended up having 130 students in grades K-12 playing,” Bartlett said.

The following lists show top players and teams by section, starting with first place and descending: * K-3 Under 300 Section – Largest section with many unrated players in first rated tournament. Numerous players achieved a rating or provisional rating above 300. Elliott Poole, first, Isaac Doyle, Avyaktha Subramania, Alex Cai, John Park, Theodore Piper, Cora

Newberry, Lewis Washburn, Owen Suckow, Alex Lee. 10thplace tie for medals with Cohen Phillips, Yuito Oda, Grason Riddle, Sarvesh Satheesh, C.J. Conley and Daniel Lee. Top female (with placing in other rankings) Saisha Iyer.

Top elementary teams were Rainbow, first, Horizon, Columbia, Mill Creek and Heritage. * K-3 Championship – Esteban Jerez, Kylie Zou, Alice Zou, Annabelle Hsu, Asher Allison, Asher Allison, Emory Howell, Jimmy McHugh, Dennis Lenski and Jacob Bluestone.

Team winners for K-3 Championship were Horizon and Rainbow. * K-5 Championship -- Jethro Jones, Sophia Jerez, Andrew Tkach, Genji Niinomi, Jaxton Salisbury, Noah Hsu, Emerson

Contestants in the Queen’s Quest Chess Tournament enjoyed the spacious rooms of Midtown Elementary School. Players shared a fist bump to start the tournament.

Phillips, Issa Kreusser, Vedanth Siva and Margaret Lin. Tie for 10th-place medals with Shravan Balaji, Xander Yem,

Rhyan Quansah and Mason Park. Top female Lauren Cory.

Rainbow’s team secured first See CHESS Page 8B

December 8, 2021

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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.

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.

GRADY-MADISON AME CHURCH 129 GOOCH LANE MADISON, AL 35758 (256)864-2829 WWW.GRADY-MADISONAMECHURCH.ORG SUNDAY SCHOOL @ 9:45AM SUNDAY WORSHIP @ 11:00AM HARVEST POINTE METHODIST CHURCH PASTOR MARSHALL DAIGRE 103 GIN OAKS COURT MADISON, AL 35758 256-434-1390 WWW.HARVESTPOINTE.COM WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/HARVESTPOINTE OFFICE@HARVESTPOINTE.COM

SWANCOTT CHURCH OF CHRIST PHILIP DOUD SWANCOTT ROAD MADISON, ALA. 35756 256-355-2217 SUNDAY 11 A.M./5 P.M. WEDNESDAY (BIBLE STUDY) 7 P.M.

THE BROOK 8573 HIGHWAY 72 W, ALA. SUN. 9 AM & 10:45 AM 256-837-6633 WWW.THEBROOKCHURCH.COM

HAVEN BAPTIST STEVE GRISSOM 1840 SLAUGHTER RD. MADISON, ALA 35758 SUNDAY 11 A.M./ 6 P.M.

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.

MONROVIA CHURCH OF CHRIST MINISTER RAY PALMER 595 NANCE ROAD MADISON, ALA. 256-837-5255 SUNDAY 10 A.M. WEDNESDAY 7 P.M.

ST. ANDREW PRIMITIVE BAPTIST MICHAEL HARWELL 1393 SWANCOTT ROAD MADISON, ALA. 35756 256-353-9708 SUNDAY 10:45 A.M. WEDNESDAY 6 P.M.

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

CENTRAL VALLEY CHURCH OF CHRIST 9580 MAISON BLVD. MADISON, AL 35613 SUNDAY 10:00AM WEDNESDAY CONNECT GROUPS 6:30PM CVCFAMILY.ORG

WALL TRIANA CHURCH OF CHRIST 7535 WALL TRIANA HIGHWAY MADISON, ALA. 35758 256-716-1817

MADISON UNITED METHODIST DR. TRAVIS WILSON, PASTOR 127 CHURCH STREET MADISON, AL 35758 (256) 772-9761 SUNDAY WORSHIP: 8:30 & 10:45 AM SUNDAY CLASSES: 9:45 AM WWW.MADISONUM.ORG

CHURCH OF GOD FIRST CHURCH OF GOD MADISON 1547 CAPSHAW ROAD MADISON, ALA. 256-830-5542

PARKER CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH PASTOR BILL DEISS 28670 POWELL ROAD MADISON, ALA. 35756 SUNDAY SCHOOL: 9:45 A.M. SUNDAY WORSHIP: 10:30 A.M.

ST. MATTHEW’S EPISCOPAL 786 HUGHES ROAD MADISON, ALA. 256-864-0788 SUNDAY 8:30 A.M. /11 A.M. /5 P.M. WEDNESDAY 12 P.M. GOSPEL BRIGHT STAR FULL GOSPEL 5167 WALL TRIANA HWY MADISON, ALA. 256-864-8072

SPRINGHILL UNITED METHODIST REVEREND CLAUZELL RIDGEWAYWILLIAMS, SR. PASTOR 1605 ZIERDT RD. MADISON, ALA. 35756 256-461-7472 SPRINGHILLUMCMADISON.ORG/

JEWISH SYNAGOGUES TEMPLE B’NAI SHOLOM 103 LINCOLN ST. S.E. HUNTSVILLE, AL 35801 256-536-4771 JOURNEY CHURCH 13902 BRADFORD ROAD MADISON, ALABAMA 35756 WWW.JOURNEYCHURCHATHENS.COM WORSHIP: SUNDAY 10:00 A.M. HUNTSVILLE CONSERVATIVE SYNAGOGUE 7705 BAILEY COVE RD. S.E. HUNTSVILLE, AL 35802 256-881-6260 LUTHERAN FAITH LUTHERAN PASTOR DOCTOR GERALD BOSSARD 660 GILLESPIE RD MADISON, ALA. 256-830-5600 SUNDAY 8 A.M./10:45 A.M.

ST. PAUL UNITED METHODIST PASTOR PAUL HILLARD 620 6TH ST. MADISON, ALA. 35756 256-772-0016 SUNDAY 11 A.M. WEDNESDAY 6:30 P.M. ST. PETER UNITED METHODIST PASTOR DANNY JEFFERSON 107 STEWART ST. MADISON, ALA. 35758 256-464-0887 SUNDAY 11 A.M. WEDNESDAY 6:30 P.M. MORMON THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS 1297 SLAUGHTER ROAD MADISON, ALA. 256-722-8417

LAMB OF GOD LUTHERAN, WELS PASTOR DUANE SCHMEICHEL 11716 COUNTY LINE ROAD MADISON, ALA. 256-464-3900 SUNDAY 10:30 A.M.

NAZARENE MADISON FIRST CHURCH PASTOR LEWIS MARTIN 8234 MADISON PIKE MADISON, ALA. 35758 256-772-3381 SUNDAY 11 A.M./6 P.M. WEDNESDAY 6:30 P.M.

MESSIAH LUTHERAN PASTOR SCOTT PETERSON 7740 HIGHWAY 72 W MADISON, ALA. 35758 256-721-0041 SUNDAY 8:30 A.M./11 A.M. METHODIST ASBURY UNITED METHODIST 980 HUGHES ROAD MADISON, ALA. 256-837-0365 8089 WALL TRIANA HWY HARVEST, ALA 35749 256-325-1550

NONDENOMINATIONAL CALVARY CHAPEL OF HUNTSVILLE 200 THERESA DRIVE MADISON, ALA. 256-430-3400

CENTER OF HOPE CHURCH 5167 WALL TRIANA HWY. MADISON, ALA. 35758 SUNDAY 3 P.M. WEDNESDAY 7 P.M. WWW.ANOINTEDTOREACH.ORG

SPIRIT LIFE FAMILY WORSHIP CENTER 1469 BROWNS FERRY ROAD MADISON, ALA. 256-772-8428

CHURCH DISCIPLESHIP MINISTRY 142 BROWNSTONE DRIVE, ALA. 256-895-0603 CORNERSTONE WORD OF LIFE 3783 SULLIVAN STREET MADISON, AL 35758 256-461-7055

THE SUMMIT LIGHTHOUSE PRESENTING TEACHINGS OF THE ASCENDED MASTERS WWW.TSL.ORG 1-800-245-5445 PRESBYTERIAN GRACE PRESBYTERIAN USA REVEREND ROBIN PALMER 5555 WALL TRIANA HIGHWAY MADISON, ALA. 35758 256-722-0508 SUNDAY 11 A.M.

CROSSPOINTE 78 HUGHES ROAD MADISON, ALA. 256-772-4463 FELLOWSHIP OF FAITH CHURCH 132 MAPLE STREET MADISON, AL. 35758 (256) 536-4673 WWW.TFOFCHURCH.ORG SUNDAY AT 8 A.M. GRACE FELLOWSHIP 11900 MOORESVILLE ROAD MADISON, ALA. 256-233-6200 THE HARBOR FAMILY WORSHIP CENTER 1469 BROWNS FERRY ROAD MADISON, ALABAMA 35758 VOICE 256-668-7795 WWW.THEHARBORCONNECTION.COM HOPE 1661 BALCH ROAD MADISON, ALA. 256-830-5544

MADISON MONROVIA PRESBYTERIAN PASTOR ROY HOLLY WESTMINSTER CHRISTIAN ACADEMY MADISON, ALA. 256-722-9496 SUNDAY 10:45 A.M. WEDNESDAY 6:30 P.M. (BIBLE STUDY) MT. ZION CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN 3726 PRYOR ROAD MADISON, ALA. 256-353-9936 NEW HOPE CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN 28520 S.W. WALL ST. MADISON, ALA. 256-353-8929

INSIDE-OUT MINISTRIES P.O. BOX 2004 MADISON, ALA. 256-325-5193

PROVIDENCE PRESBYTERIAN PASTOR DARREN THOLE 7745 HIGHWAY 72 W MADISON, ALA. 256-722-0227 SUNDAY 11 A.M./5 P.M. WEDNESDAY PRAYER 7 P.M.

LIFESONG COMMUNITY HOME CHURCH PASTOR JOE JOHNSON 304 HARVESTWOOD COURT MADISON, ALA. 35758 256-426-1339

REDEEMER PRESBYTERIAN 9580 MADISON BLVD. MADISON, ALA. 256-461-6012

LIGHT OF CHRIST CENTER 4208 HOLMES AVENUE NW, HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA 35816 COURSE IN MIRACLES SUNDAY 9 A.M. MYSTERY SCHOOL SERVICE 11 A.M.

ST. ELIZABETH CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN 104 PERRY ST. MADISON, ALA. 256-772-3994

LIVING WORD FELLOWSHIP 1477 SLAUGHTER ROAD, ALA. 256-895-9228

TRIANA CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN 263 STONE ST. SW MADISON, ALA. 256-461-0206

JESUS MINISTRIES 331 LANDESS CIRCLE, ALA. 256-461-0084

VALLEY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 719 HUGHES RD, MADISON, ALA. SUNDAY SCHOOL AT 9:30 AND WORSHIP AT 10:45, (256) 508-9020

MADISON MISSION ECONOMIC 183 SHELTON ROAD MADISON, ALA. 256-461-8892

SABBATARIAN HUNGRY HEARTS MINISTRY 6200 TOROK CIR NW HUNTSVILLE, AL 35806 731-736-1055 WWW.HUNGRYHEARTSMINISTRY.COM

MADISON WORSHIP CENTER 5290 WALL TRIANA HIGHWAY MADISON, ALA. 256-721-4595 NEW CREATION CHRISTIAN CENTER 8006 MADISON PIKE, ALA. 256-461-6070 OASIS TABERNACLE - FAITH & LOVE 8006 MADISON PIKE, ALA. 256-325-8009 RAY OF HOPE MINISTRIES PASTOR BILLY R. SANDERS 9580 PUTNAM PLAZA MADISON, ALA. 256-325-2889

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST MADISON MISSION SDA 183 SHELTON ROAD MADISON, ALA. 256-464-9488 TRIANA SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST 251 ERVIN LANE MADISON, ALA. 256-772-3099 UNITY UNITY CHURCH ON THE MOUNTAIN UNITY AFFIRMS THE POWER OF PRAYER AND

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MADISON HISTORY with John Rankin

7B

December 8, 2021

The Apperson – Brown House at 20 Arnett Street

A historical look at

The Apperson House (20 Arnett Street)

By JOHN P. RANKIN Madison Historian MADISON - The house at 20 Arnett Street is one of the two prefabricated houses in Madison that were ordered by mail from a Sears-Roebuck catalog. The pieces to be assembled were delivered by train and then carried to the lot sites for Lego-like construction into dwellings. Most people alive today have not experienced the thrill of the arrival of a Sears-Roebuck catalog in the mail that some of us can recall from the days when there were no large building supply stores. In those days, many of us ordered our clothes and household items via mail from Sears or from the J. C. Penny catalog later. When kit houses were included, that was a real novelty, and there were very few who could afford to order a house assembly kit. Madison is unusual in America to still have two such houses – this one at 20 Arnett and the other at 308 Church Street. Both date from the early 1900s, around 1910 to 1920.

The house at 20 Arnett is shown in the Tax Assessor’s website as being built in 1900. Historical publications of the past state that it was constructed by William Ligon Hafley in 1910. If Hafley was indeed its assembler / builder, then the date should be soon after November 16 of 1916. That was the date that William L. Hafley purchased Lot 36 of the original Madison town plat from Rosa Belle Vaughn, according to Madison County Deed Book 106, page 282. Of course, it is possible that Hafley was just the constructor of the house before he bought the lot and house later, but there is no known record of such. What is known according to the legal deed records is that Lot 36 was one of those sold at public auction on October 5 of 1868 to Sally L. Martin. She sold it later to Lena May Cain, who subsequently sold it to Rosa Belle Vaughn before it came into the possession of William Hafley. This was the same Hafley family who owned and operated the Hafley Hotel on Madison’s Main Street in the early 1900s.

The 1910 census also shows that the Hafley family lived in the hotel at that time.

The earlier historical publications about Madison state that in 1917 the house at 20 Arnett was sold to Elizabeth C. Humphrey. Unfortunately, the data given in Volume I index of the Madison County deed records from 1809 – 1919, do not show any deed being issued by the Hafleys or anyone else to Elizabeth or to her husband John Longstreet Humphrey, who died in the later months of 1920 (after the census was taken in January), whereas Elizabeth died in 1943. Still, the 1920 census record shows that John and Elizabeth were owners of their house, living with their son Chappel beside James H. Cain, Robert P. Cain, and Robert E. Cain. The Cain connection supports that John and Elizabeth Humphrey were indeed the owners living at 20 Arnett Street in 1920. That same census sheet also shows merchant William L. Hafley at age 70 living back on Main Street in a dwelling that Hafley owned, with his daughter Ellie at age 37 – probably back in the hotel. Hafley could have still owned the house at 20 Arnett until late 1919 while renting it to the Humphreys for a time until selling it to the Humphreys just before the 1920 census was taken. Examination of the deeds referenced in the Volume II index may reveal such a timeline of the transfer of ownership.

Elizabeth Bibb Cain married John Longstreet Humphrey in 1894. Elizabeth was a child of Thomas J. Cain, who was also the father of Madison merchant James Henry Cain. Therefore, Elizabeth was living beside her brother in 1920. Thomas Cain had both a brother and a son named James Henry Cain. His brother of that name was a farmer in Limestone County, living near Shoal Ford across Limestone Creek where today’s Highway 72 crosses over the water. All of these Cains are buried in the Madison City Cemetery.

John L. and Elizabeth Cain Humphrey had a daughter named Kathleen, who married Charles Ford Apperson, Sr., in 1919. Kathleen Humphrey Apperson inherited the 20 Arnett property from her mother Elizabeth Cain Humphrey, who died in 1942. Kathleen herself passed away in 1974, and her husband Charles Ford Apperson died in 1980. Their son Charles Ford Apperson, Jr., was born in 1923 and lived to 2007. However, the 1930 census shows that Charles Apperson Jr. at age 7 was enumerated in a rented house with his parents and sisters Bettie, Dora, and Kathleen on Maple Street between the households of farmer Roy Thorson and undertaker Frank Brandon.

The 1930 census sister of Charles Jr., Kathleen (known locally as “Naneen”) Apperson, was born in 1930. This sister eventually inherited the 20 Arnett property and lived there with her husband Doward Williams until 1986, when the property transitioned to Merry Lane Strain. In March of 1989 Patricia Brown

The Charles Ford Apperson, Jr., 1988 house in Madison - located at the junction of Brown’s Ferry Road and Sullivan Street (Wall-Triana Highway). Photo by John P. Rankin in 2004

purchased and restored the home. Pat Brown as a widow lived for a time at 19 Front Street in the old home of James Edward Williams. By 1993 the house at 20 Arnett Street became the home of Pat’s son Jeffrey Brown, as it remains today.

Charles Ford Apperson, Sr., a former owner of 20 Arnett Street, was Mayor of Madison from 1950 to 1957 and served as a Madison Councilman 1936-1940. The senior Charles was born in Kansas in 1889, but at least one census record shows that he was born in Virginia.

He was a son of James Cumberland Apperson (b. VA, 1860-1945), who brought his family to Madison County and lived in Huntsville for a time. James Apperson ran a dairy and ice cream business in Huntsville before moving to Madison by 1920. J. C. Apperson married Maria Louise Ford (1862-1942), thereby introducing the Ford name for generations into the Apperson line. The Apperson Ice Cream Company in July of 1914 brought suit and won a judgment of $50 against Fred Camper of the New Hope area. Fred was a son of Madison resident Benjamin Franklin Camper. He must have had a great appetite for ice cream in what may have been a hot year to have spent so much in those days for ice cream.

Charles Ford Apperson Sr. was listed in the 1930 census with the occupation of enameler, working in an electric stove factory while living on Maple Street.

Charles Apperson Jr. matured by 1988 to build, own, and reside in a very impressive 4700 sq. ft. house located on a private 2-acre lot in the southwestern corner of the Sullivan Street junction with Brown’s Ferry Road.

His life memories of living in Madison were digitally recorded in 2004 during a visit by Charles’ sister Dora Cain Apperson Tuck with her husband Marcus Tuck and Percy Brooks Keel, all of similar age, graduates of the Madison School on College Street, and longtime residents of the town. During that visit Charles told his memory of an accidental shooting that resulted in the death of a woman inside the Madison Main Street store of his great uncle, James Henry Cain. The shooting occurred when a boy playing on the movable

ladders used to reach the upper merchandise storage levels along the walls behind the counters found a shotgun that James Cain kept loaded in the store.

The shotgun was normally above the reach of people inside. As the boy was trying to replace the shotgun, it discharged, killing the woman. The boy was never prosecuted, but it must have been a difficult memory for him during the rest of his life.

When Charles Ford Apperson, Jr., died on August 8, 2007, he was survived by siblings James C. Apperson of Madison and sisters Kathleen (“Naneen”) Apperson Williams of Madison, Dora Apperson Tuck of Harvest, and Betty Apperson Alston of Searcy, Arkansas.

Charles’ wife Ruth Putman (1929-2000) passed away before him. The interior of his last residence at Sullivan Street and Brown’s Ferry Road reflected Charles’ passion for Alabama football and his lifelong dedication to the Madison United Methodist Church. Additionally, he was an active member of the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, and he loved to collect and refurbish antiques, which filled his home. A great man of Madison is now departed from the life of the city, but some of his memories are preserved and his remains rest in the new section of the Madison City Cemetery on the north side of Mill Road and west of Hughes Road.

8B • THE RECORD

December 8, 2021

Candy Cane Cookies

Pruned Lately?

By CHRISTY JORDAN

By BECKY MILLER God’s Lemonade Stand

Southernplate.com

Today Christy’s mama shares her recipe for Candy Cane Cookies!

These are the cookies that Christy remembers us making from her childhood. I think what she remembers most is the way that I crushed the peppermint candy cane. Usually I bought one of the large peppermint sticks, put it into a double layered plastic bag, went out in the driveway, and ran over it with the car. I still remember them all standing on the porch watching to let me know if I had hit it or not. Each time I would run over it backwards and forwards and then get out to check it. If it needed a little more crushing, I’d keep doing that until it was a fine powder. Now I realize that I could have just hit it with a hammer but the kids enjoyed it more with the car method.

Now let’s make these cookies.

This is a classic recipe that has stood the test of time and you may be surprised to find that these cookies are a special favorite of Santa’s elves! See the bottom of my post for proof :).

The ingredients for these Cookies are: butter, shortening or Coconut Oil (Refined has very little coconut flavor, but if you like coconut, get unrefined as it has lots of coconut flavor), sugar, egg, vanilla, peppermint extract, all-purpose flour, salt, candy canes, red food coloring or a healthier option beet root powder.

Cream butter, shortening and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy.

Add egg, vanilla and peppermint extract. Mix. Stir flour and salt into batter mixture and combine well.

Divide in dough in half into two bowls. Stir red food coloring or beet root powder into dough in one of the bowls.

Scoop dough into one teaspoon portions. Roll dough into ropes about 4 inches long. Place two ropes side by side, press lightly together and twist into candy cane shape with curved top.

Place onto ungreased cookie sheets and bake at 375 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes or until very lightly browned.

While still warm, sprinkle with crushed candy cane and sugar mixture.

If you have any elves in your house this holiday season, you’ll probably notice these cookies disappearing faster than you had

I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. John 15:1-2

The ingredients for these Cookies are: butter, shortening or Coconut Oil (Refined has very little coconut flavor, but if you like coconut, get unrefined as it has lots of coconut flavor), sugar, egg, vanilla, peppermint extract, all-purpose flour, salt, candy canes, red food coloring or a healthier option beet root powder.

expected. I bake countless varieties of cookies all year around but especially during the Christmas season. I’ve never known any cookies to be as irresistible to elves as these are. I can make a batch of these, each of us only have one or two, and wake to find the jar empty the next day with my elves bellies looking slightly plumper than the night before.

Just to prove it, I posed this little guy here for a picture and when I turned my back for one second…

Clearly, these are a favorite among Santa’s helpers, and Santa, too!

INGREDIENTS • 1/2 cup butter softened • 1/2 cup shortening or Coconut oil • 1 cup sugar • 1 egg • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract • 2 and 1/2 cups unsifted all purpose flour • 1 teaspoon salt • 3/4 teaspoon red food coloring or beet root powder Topping • 1/2 cup sugar • 1/2 cup crushed peppermint

candy cane INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

In a large mixing bowl, cream butter, shortening, and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy.

Add egg, vanilla and peppermint extract.

Stir flour and salt into butter mixture and beat until well combined.

Divide dough in half.

Stir red food coloring/beet root powder into one half of dough until well blended.

Roll 1 teaspoonful of each color dough into four inch rope.

Place 2 ropes side by side, press lightly together and twist.

Place on ungreased cookie sheets and curve top for the handle of the candy cane.

Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned.

While cookies are baking, crush candy canes to equal 1/2 cup mixture and add 1/2 cup sugar.

While still warm, sprinkle with topping mixture. The warm cookie will cause the topping to slightly melt enough to adhere to candy cane.

Christy Jordan is a food blogger, bestselling cookbook author, tv personality, former editor at large for Southern Living Magazine, former contributing editor to Taste of the South magazine, and someone who loves to feed people. She holds a B.S. in Home Economics with a concentration in Foods and Nutrition. A ninth generation Alabamian, Christy lives just minutes from where she was born with her husband of 20 years, their two children, various cats, dogs, and a small flock of chickens. Her website, SouthernPlate, has been twice named one of the top 25 food websites in the country, and draws millions of visitors each month.

Pruning is a necessary thing for gardeners to do if they expect their trees and bushes to flourish.

Often timed after being pruned they look real pathetic almost like really those will be nice again?

In your spiritual life you also receive pruning to help you grow better in your walk with Christ.

At time’s you may say “why God do I have to go through this painful process” while not literally being cut with shears as you do with trees, things are taken away from you or cut from your life that are of no benefit in growing into a mature follower of Christ.

The pruning could be getting rid of wrong friends leading you into a sinful lifestyle. It could be the difficult time of waiting and trusting God for Christ centered friends while your heart is aching in loneliness. It could be stopping bad spending habits and trusting God with your finances. It could be leaving a dead church for one alive in the spirit. Whatever the case once the finished product from this pruning emerges it will be wonderful. Have faith.

PRAYER: Lord I don’t understand why I have to give up so much or wait so long for things you are preparing for me so you can use me better. I trust you now and want strength to hang on in this process. 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.

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December 2021 / $4.95 madisonlivingmagazine.com

The Magic of Christmas

Madison’s historic downtown will come to life with festive Christmas events and attractions

Noble Passage in downtown Madison keeps magic of Christmas alive Christmas time with The Beasley Brothers Next Step Farm Meet Madison’s new executive director Cross-County Christmas events and attractions Madison Living 1

Look for the December issue of Madison Living Magazine. You can find it in Madison businesses or go to madisonlivingmagazine.com

Neighbors

Holiday films families can enjoy together at the Princess Theater

By STAFF REPORTS DECATUR - The holiday season is steeped in tradition. Few traditions may elicit more collective belly laughs than watching holiday movies with your loved ones, especially grandkids, and friends.

To celebrate the holiday season, the historic Princess Theatre will screen a series of Christmas movies at the downtown Decatur performing arts space.

The nine-movie series will feature classic favorites, modern comedies and one pseudo-Christmas action flick.

The series will feature “A Christmas Story” on Dec. 14 at 7 p.m., “A Madea Christmas” on Dec. 16 at 7 p.m., “Die

Hard” on Dec. 17 at 7 p.m., “The Grinch” on Dec. 19 at 2 and 7 p.m., “Scrooged” on Dec. 21 at 7 p.m., “White Christmas” on Dec. 22 at 7 p.m., “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” on Dec. 23 at 7 p.m.

Tickets cost $7 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. princesstheatre.org.

The Princess Theatre is a 677-seat performing arts venue in Decatur. The art deco-style building was originally built in 1887 as a livery stable. In 1919, the building was transformed into a silent film and vaudeville playhouse. In 1941 the Princess received its art deco redesign.

The theater is located at 112 2nd Ave NE, Decatur. For more information, go to www.princesstheatre.org.

CHRISTMAS BALLOON GLOW - On Dec. 11 between 5:30 and 7:00 p.m. the Alabama Jubilee Committee and Local Balloon Pilot’s “2nd Christmas Balloon Glow” will take place at Decatur Baptist Church (Modus and Danville Roads) activity area, south of the church building. This is the Jubilee committee and local Balloon Pilots Christmas gift to the local area. This event is weather dependent and is a free event. In the spirit of Christmas, they help those who are less fortunate with a Food Drive. Please donate non-perishable food items, dried goods, dried beans, rice, canned items or boxed items to volunteers at collection drop off points just before and during the glow. All items collected will distributed through Quality of Life to local Soup Kitchens to help feed and meet the need this time of the year.

Chess

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place, followed by Mill Creek, Heritage, Columbia and Horizon. * K-8 Championship - Aadi Saxena, Andrew Yang, Artem Starenki, Caden Jordan, Nirvana Rajbhandari, Daniel Hu, Joseph Park, Edward Xiao, Tristan McCluney and Rimes Kent. Tie for 10thplace medals with Cooper Meyer, Arush Sharma, Samuel Billions, Aaron Chen and John Chen. Top female Isabelle Park.

Discovery claimed first place. Tupelo Christian School from Tupelo, Miss. took

second place. * K-12 Open -- Top 5 received trophies: Victor Lundy, Caleb Chen, William Billions, Jackson Martin and Zachary Calinsky. Tie for fifth-place medals with Jason Park and Oviya Gowder. Top female Constance Wang.

Intercity rival Bob Jones High School aced first place, while James Clemens High School secured second.

For more information, visit madisonchess.com.