The Madison Record, Dec. 9, 2020

WEDNESDAY DEC. 9, 2020

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Happy 104th Birthday

NEWS

Save the Monarch Volunteers gathered at Dublin Memorial Park in Madison on Saturday to take a huge step towards saving the Monarch butterfly. Led by the Rotary Club of Madison, they planted milkweed in a special section at the park for the butterfly. Page 3A

Madison resident Major Lee Wooten received a great send-off from Madison Hospital last Tuesday. He recently won his battle with COVID-19 in time to be home to celebrate his 104th birthday.

Madison Hospital celebrates Major Wooten’s win over COVID for his 104th birthday

Cars Under The Stars Madison Parks and Recreation department will host an outdoor movie event on Saturday, Dec. 12, at the Madison City Schools stadium, featuring The Grinch and Christmas Vacation.

Page 5A

A veteran of World War II, Wooten’s story being told worldwide

By STAFF REPORTS MADISON – Last week was a big week for World War II veteran and Madison resident Major Lee Wooten. He received world-wide attention as another type of veteran, successfully winning a battle over COVID-19 in time to celebrate his 104th birthday.

To celebrate, the staff at Madison Hospital, where he had been receiving care since being diagnosed with the virus, threw Wooten a huge send-off last week.

Wooten, who is warmly known as “Pop Pop,” is described by his granddaughter as “their family’s treasure.”

Holly Wooten McDonald expressed her appreciation to the front-line healthcare workers at Madison Hospital.

“So thankful for everyone at Madison Hospital for all they do for our community and keeping our loved ones alive and well!

They saved him in the spring, my sister in August and now my Pop Pop again just in time for his 104th! This is truly a wonderful hospital and they gave him such a special send off today! Thank you is not enough!”

McDonald said Wooten was physically drained after leaving the hospital and a little fuzzy mentally but appears to be on the mend.

News of Wooten’s recovery from

Girl Scouts During recess on sunny days, students at Madison Elementary School can enjoy a new addition to their playground as a result of the project that Lyla MacKrell and Natalie Zesinger have pursued to earn the Bronze Award in Girl Scouts.

Page 6A

SPORTS

State Swim Meet The Bob Jones swim and dive team took third place honors in both boys and girls at the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) State and Diving Championships held at the Huntsville Aquatic Center. Page 1B

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MADISON – Students in Madison City Schools who have opted to attend in-person classes will be on a hybrid schedule for the rest of the semester.

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COVID-19 cases continue to spike in Madison County at “alarming rate”

COVID-19, and his story was told last week

by NBC News, ABC World News Tonight with David Muir, Fox News, the AP, and even the AFP News Agency in France.

On Saturday, a long parade drove by Wooten’s house wishing him happy birthday. He turned 104 on Dec. 3, just two days after he left Madison Hospital to go home.

Major Wooten seemed destined to serve in the military with his distinctive first name. Major was born in 1916 in Winston County and grew up in the Arley area with 11 siblings. The older boys, including Major, quit school to work as farm sharecroppers after their father died of a brain aneurysm in 1929.

During World War II, Major was drafted into the U.S. Army in June 1943, “just three months after his son Larry (my father) was born,” granddaughter Holly Wooten McDonald said. “Major would not see his firstborn until he was three years old when Major returned after the war. He served until February 1946.”

Major was one of four brothers who served in World War II: Major in France; Felton in Germany; Earl in the Pacific; and 19-year-old Jack, who died Oct. 16, 1944 in Italy after stepping on a landmine.

Major Wooten completed Basic Training in New Orleans and finished Technical Training in Ohio. He served as a railroad car carpenter stationed in Paris, and his rank was Private 1st Class Major.

In his early 20s, Major met his bride, Jewel Cox Wooten. In 1942, they moved to Birmingham for his new job at US Steel.

He retired after 40 years with the company. Jewel worked for many years as an elementary teacher.

Major and Jewel Wooten were married See WOOTEN Page 2A

MADISON – The COVID-19 cases in North Alabama and the rest of the state are going in the wrong direction. The escalating numbers come as State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris provided more details on the planned roll-out of a vaccine in the state.

The Alabama Department of Public Health reported 320 new cases of COVID-19 among Madison County residents on Thursday. That was nearly identical to Wednesday’s total of 318.

Madison Hospital reported 31 patients with COVID-19. Five were on ventilators and six were in ICU. In Huntsville Hospital System facilities throughout the county 160 COVID patients with 20 on ventilators and 20 in ICU. Over the past two weeks, there have been 2,786 Madison County residents test positive for COVID, which brings the overall total to 14,521 since testing began. There have been 153 deaths attributed to the virus so far.

In Limestone County, there were 75 new cases of COVID reported Thursday, bringing the two-week total to 650. So far, there have been 46 deaths in the county from the virus.

“Our numbers are trending up at an alarming rate,” said David Spillers, CEO of Huntsville Hospital Health System, which includes Madison Hospital.

He said the hospitalization numbers probably include no infections contracted over Thanksgiving, which generally won’t begin to result in hospitalizations for another one to two weeks. “What worries us is we’ll roll out of taking care of the increase in patients from Thanksgiving right into Christmas where we’ll have opportunities for families to get together, a lot of shopping, a lot of things that get people close together.”

Spillers said hospitals have to assume that the number of COVID-19 patients will continue to increase, and that he expects additional restrictions soon on hospital visitations throughout the Huntsville Hospital Health System.

“For the next couple of months until we get this under control, you just need to assume that no place is safe and there’s no one that is safe. You don’t know. There seems to be some perception that if I only have family members coming over to the house for dinner, it’s OK,” Spillers said Thursday. “It only takes one family See COVID Page 2A

Madison schools to stay on hybrid schedule until winter break

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

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EVENTS

EDUCATION

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North Alabama are having to scale back on in-person instruction due to a recent spike in COVID-19 cases. Some, like the Madison County School District have chosen to go all-virtual for select schools where positive coronavirus cases have made it difficult to See SCHOOLS Page 2A

From Our farm, to your table.

Rising COVID cases are impacting Madison City schools.

2A • THE RECORD

December 9, 2020

Wooten

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75 years when she passed away in 2016, within only one month of their son Larry Wooten’s death.

Major and his daughter-inlaw Judy moved to Madison to live closer to granddaughters Holly Wooten McDonald and Jenny Wooten Ryder, both longtime residents of Madison.

At age 99, Major traveled twice with Honor Flight to Washington D.C. He continues to inspire his family with his carpentry and gardening regimen in raised beds. After working, he often relaxes while sipping a frosty milkshake from Jack’s.

Major Wooten waves from his window to a parade of cars led by Madison City Police and Madison Fire and Rescue wishing the 104-year-old WWII veteran a happy birthday on Saturday.

A special yard sign in front of his residence wishes Major Wooten a happy 104th birthday.

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Schools maintain an adequate staff or where there might be an significant outbreak among students.

The Madison City Schools joined the county school district in deciding to place all their schools on a hybrid in-person/ virtual schedule until winter break starts on Dec. 18. Students will be divided into groups and rotate which days they attend in-person classes and virtual instruction from home.

“As all of you are aware, the current numbers of COVID-19 have risen these past few weeks,” MCS superintendent Dr. Ed Nichols said in a message to parents. “With the rise in cases and the corresponding shortage of substitutes, we will follow a hybrid schedule for all students.”

Dr. Nichols has been stressing the school district is getting very close to going all-virtual. School officials hope the hybrid scheduling will allow some form of in-person instruction to continue.

Both school districts used a hybrid schedule earlier this fall when they transitioned from all-virtual education to allow students to attend classes on campuses for the first time since the pandemic struck the state in March.

“We know this is a chal-

lenge to do, but with the rate of infection this high, if we don’t stay hybrid and keep social distancing at a maximum inside the schools, we could very easily and quickly end up quarantining large groups of staffs and students and cause the potential to have to go completely virtual,” Nichols added. “I appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding and support.”

Meanwhile, students at Bob Jones High School will be on a all virtual due schedule to a boiler issue last week.

Schools leaders have not made any decisions yet about what will happen after the winter break.

Students are scheduled to return from the break on Jan. 5.

Governor Kay Ivey urged school districts not to let virtual teaching become the norm in 2021.

“Due to COVID-19, 2020 has been an extremely challenging year for everyone, especially for our parents, teachers and students. I’m extremely grateful for the flexibility everyone has shown as they have adapted to virtual instruction. However, virtual and remote instruction are stop-gap measures to prevent our students from regressing academically during the pandemic. These practices

cannot — and should not — become a permanent part of instructional delivery system in 2021. As we are learning more about COVID-19, we are seeing more and more clear evidence pointing out that our students are safe in the classroom with strong health protocols in place.”

Ivey said the negative impacts of virtual instruction could be for years to come.

“This will not only result in a critical learning loss for our students today but will also likely lead to an equally negative impact on the readiness of our workforce in years to come. Additionally, it could have an equally important economic loss that affects the critical funding for our classrooms and teacher units.”

She is strongly urging education leadership on both the state and local levels to return to in-person instruction as soon as possible.

“My Administration will work with Dr. Mackey, all of our local superintendents and the Legislature to ensure that our kids are back in the classroom in 2021,” she added.

“Our employers, our families, our communities, Alabama’s taxpayers, and most importantly, our students, deserve nothing less.”

COVID member with 15 others to infect all 15.”

Harris said last week he hopes the state will begin receiving vaccine shipments in the middle of this month. He said in the first week, he expects Alabama to receive about 41,000 doses of the Pfizer vaccine, enough to vaccinate 20,500 people, far fewer than initially expected. About a week after the first Pfizer shipment comes, he expects the state to receive about the same number of doses of the Moderna vaccine, which also requires two doses per person.

He said the highest priority on the vaccines will be the state’s 300,000 health care workers and about 30,000 nursing home residents and 30,000 nursing home staff, but there will not be enough vaccine doses in the early shipments to vaccinate those groups.

“We are going to do our best to reach everyone as quickly as possible, and yet we know that there are going to be people who deserve it and need it who just aren’t going to have it right away,” Harris said.

Harris said the Pfizer vaccine will generally be shipped to larger cities, both because it requires specialized facilities than can store the vaccine at extremely low temperatures and because it comes in large shipments. Its comparatively short shelf life means the 975 doses that come in a shipment must be distributed quickly, which is less feasible in rural areas.

The Moderna vaccine, which is available in shipments of about 100 doses and can be stored in conventional freezers, will likely be the main vaccine used in rural areas, Harris said.

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

December 9, 2020

THE RECORD • 3A

Rotary Club creating Monarch habitat at Dublin Park in hopes of saving the butterfly

By JOHN FEW john@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – Volunteers gathered at Dublin Memorial Park in Madison on Saturday to take a huge step towards saving the Monarch butterfly. Led by the Rotary Club of Madison, they planted milkweed in a special section at the park for the butterfly.

Monarchs, which are Alabama’s state insect, made headline news when the number of monarch butterflies hibernating in Mexico plunged to its lowest level ever. In early 2014, monarch butterflies were found in only 1.7 acres — compared to a high of 45 acres in 1996.

The reason is because milkweed plants are disappearing all across the U.S. Milkweed is the monarch butterfly’s only source of substance.

According to Bailey Erickson with the Rotary Club of Madison, the group responded to a request for help from Rotarians in Minnesota regarding Operation Pollination.

“We searched for the perfect area for a Monarch butterfly habitat. We enlisted the aid of Kathy Gardner, a master gardener of North Alabama who told the Rotary Club that the Monarch population had declined by 90% in recent years due to herbicides, urban sprawl, and climate change” said Erickson. “Kory Alfred, Madison City Parks and Recreation Director, approved the use of a spot at Dublin Park.”

The habitat lies adjacent to the walking path between Soccer Field 6 and 7 at the park.

Erickson said volunteers planted approximately 30,000 milkweed seeds in the designated area.

“In April we will plant pollinator plants next to the milkweed, and the area will then be certified as a Monarch habitat or waystation as Madison is on the migratory path of the Monarch on its way to Mexico.

For more information about this initiative, check out: www.saveourmonarchs.org/monarch-story.html.

Volunteers display their muddy shoes after helping to plant 30,000 milkweed seeds for a Monarch habitat at Dublin Park on Saturday.

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Employees with Jack’s Family Restaurants present a check for $125,000 to Kids to Love Foundation CEO Lee Marshall (second from left).

By GREGG PARKER Gregg.Parker@madisoncountyrecord.com

MADISON – Jack’s Family Restaurants has donated $125,000 to the Kids to Love Foundation to support the organization’s goal of finding “forever families” for children who are waiting for adoption.

Lee Marshall, CEO of Kids to Love Foundation, accepted the donation on behalf of the organization. Kids to Love assists children in foster care and recruits adoptive parents to provide lifelong homes.

“Children in foster care don’t know the privilege of being part of a community.

Jack’s is helping us change that,” Marshall said. Since 2004, the Kids to Love Foundation has directly impacted the lives of more than 225,000 foster children.

“The company and customers have come along beside us for many years and, when our kids see that kind of continued community, it builds their confidence and shows that people are in their corner cheering for them,” Marshall said.

Jack’s corporate-giving component, Jack’s Family Fund, conducted a fundraising campaign for Kids to Love from Sept. 30 through Oct. 20. Jack’s remains

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Jack’s provided local Alabama news anchors and influencers with white ribbons to wear during National Adoption Week to help spread the message. Jack’s employees also hosted their own fundraising events, including community car shows and yard sales, to earn donations.

“We’re humbled to be supporting the Kids to Love Foundation with this donation,” Jack’s CEO Todd Bartmess said.

“Our communities have come together to take care of each other, just like family does in the South.”

Since 2017, Jack’s Family Fund has facilitated more than 446 grants in various communities across the South. Each week, 1,669 Jack’s employees donate to help community families. In partnering with the Kids to Love Foundation, Jack’s helps to continue the work of impacting the lives of thousands of foster children.

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Kids to Love’s office address is 140 Castle Drive in Madison. For more information, call 256-880-3455 or visit kidstolove. org.

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December 9, 2020

North American Brass Band Association (NABBA) Championships coming to area

By STAFF REPORTS HUNTSVILLE – More than 1,000 musicians from across the continent will converge in North Alabama for the annual North American Brass Band Association (NABBA) Championships, beginning in April 2022.

The NABBA Board of Directors, in conjunction with the Brass Band of Huntsville, announced that the Championships have been awarded to Huntsville for three years, from 2022-24.

Each of the events is expected to provide nearly $800,000 in economic impact to the greater-Huntsville area, including Madison.

The NABBA Championships have been held since 1983, and have made rapid growth in the last decade. There are categories for bands depending on skill levels during the championship, including youth bands.

A typical brass band consists of 33 musicians on stage, including percussion. There is also a Solo and Ensemble competition for individual honors and chamber music.

The Huntsville NABBA Championships will be held at the Von Braun Center, encom-

passing performance space at both the Mark C. Smith Concert Hall and Playhouse. The dates are April 29-30, 2022, April 21-22, 2023 and April 5-6, 2024.

“As President of NABBA, it is my great pleasure to see the Board’s commitment to developing brass banding across North America,” said NABBA president Tony Granados. “The fantastic facilities at the Von Braun Center make it possible for us to serve our mission, and with the commitment of the local partners, make our Championships a fantastic event not only for our performers, but for the people of Huntsville, who will have access to the absolute finest brass playing in North America. We are so very excited to be in Huntsville in 2022 through 2024.”

The Brass Band of Huntsville won the bid to host in partnership with the City of Huntsville, Arts Huntsville, the Von Braun Center and the Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB).

“The Brass Band of Huntsville can’t wait to show our friends from across all North America everything that Huntsville and the Von Braun Center have to offer,” said Kent Eversmeyer, president of the Brass Band of

Huntsville. “We appreciate the confidence that NABBA has shown by selecting Huntsville, and we look forward to sharing some brass band love as we make these championships a memorable experience for all the musicians, families, friends and fans.”

The NABBA board held its annual meeting in Huntsville in September, touring the Von Braun Center and meeting with local officials.

“The City of Huntsville has a vibrant music scene, and being able to showcase the unique talents of these brass bands adds to the variety of music for our residents to enjoy,” said Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, who met with the NABBA board during its visit. “We’re delighted to welcome NABBA here for three years – and we hope for many more years to come.”

“The CVB is proud to be a part of the team bringing the NABBA Championships to Huntsville, and we look forward to creating a memorable experience for our visitors. We hope they’ll take the opportunity to enjoy all that our area has to offer,” said Judy Ryals, President/CEO of the Huntsville/ Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau.

The 2022 championships will take place on the same weekend as Huntsville’s annual Panoply Arts Festival at Big Spring Park. According to Arts Huntsville executive director Allison Dillon-Jauken, there will be a special performance by one of the brass bands during Panoply.

“Huntsville is a community of avid music lovers and arts patrons, and we look forward to welcoming the NABBA Championships beginning in April 2022 as we introduce musicians from across the country to Huntsville,” Dillon-Jauken said.

For more information, please

visit the North American Brass Band Association’s website at www.nabba.org.

About NABBA: The North American Brass Band Association is an organization dedicated to the promotion and development of the British-style brass band movement in North America. With bands and musicians covering 15 states and Canada as well as ranging from school-age youth to senior citizens, NABBA has become a true force in the arena of amateur musicians and brass banding across North American and across the

State finance director ‘highly confident’ CARES funds will be spent by Dec. 30

By MARY SELL Alabama Daily News MONTGOMERY – The state finance director said Wednesday his office is working under a Dec. 30 deadline to spend more than $800 million remaining in federal CARES Act money and thinks the task will be completed.

Some state officials had hoped for a deadline extension from Congress to finish spending the more than $1.76 billion in CARES Act money allocated to the state earlier this year, but no such proposal has developed.

House and Senate leaders are discussing varying COVID-19 relief packages that could provide additional money to states, but so far no agreement has been reached in Washington.

“We are certainly operating

as if it is a hard deadline,” Kelly Butler told reporters during an update on the spending.

Butler also said he expects state officials to make a third reallocation later this month of some of the funds earmarked for various entities and expenses in May but unspent so far.

Money not spent by the Dec. 30 deadline has to be returned to the federal government. Butler said he’s “highly confident” the state can spend almost all of the money, down to about $10 million or less.

Congress put tight restrictions on how the funds could be used, including not allowing any expenses other than those directly related to the outbreak, making spending the money more challenging than many assume, Butler said.

According to a dashboard updated by the Department of Finance, as of early this week, $933.4 million of the state’s $1.76 billion had been spent. Leaving $827.7 million “unexpended.”

But because many programs and entities are being reimbursed for COVID-related expenses, more money is going out every day.

The state is reimbursing 66 counties — Jefferson County received its own direct allocation — and more than 400 municipalities for some of their expenses, Butler said. The expenses also have to have originated after March 27, not prior to the virus.

Last month, Gov. Kay Ivey and legislative leadership reallocated $200 million in CARES Act money to Alabama small businesses, non-profit groups

and faith-based organizations impacted by COVID-19.

“Revive Plus” is a second wave of funding for organizations with 50 or fewer employees. They can receive grants of up to $20,000.

As of Wednesday morning, more than 30,000 applications for the grants had been received, Butler said. The application period closes at noon Friday.

Asked about a future reallocation, Butler said more money could be directed this month.

Unemployment trust fund In September, Ivey and lawmakers dedicated $300 million to unemployment benefit costs in an effort to avoid a significant increase in the tax paid by employers. But even with that infusion, businesses are expected to be taxed more to replenish the

fund. The state’s unemployment insurance benefits trust fund is supported by a tax on employers.

Butler said another about $287 million could be dedicated to the trust fund to cover COVID-19-related unemployment costs.

Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur, is one of six lawmakers who must approve any changes to the CARES Act spending plan OK’d by the Legislature in May. Orr on Wednesday said the unemployment trust fund is the best place for remaining CARES funds.

“That will prevent a tax increase on businesses across the state by shoring up our unemployment trust fund,” Orr said.

“And you don’t have the bureaucratic hassles of grants and grant applications — you don’t have time for that anymore.”

ALEA saw a 30% decrease in holiday traffic fatalities over Thanksgiving holiday

By STAFF REPORTS

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Troopers within the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) Highway Patrol Division saw nearly a 30 percent decrease in overall traffic fatalities during the extended 2020 Thanksgiving travel period. ALEA Troopers investigated only eight traffic-related deaths as compared to 11 during the same holiday travel period in 2019.

ALEA’s Secretary Hal Taylor said Troopers are committed to saving lives, particularly during popular holiday travel periods such as Thanksgiving. “Investigating three fewer traffic deaths this past weekend is certainly an achievement, however, we are continuously striving to reach the point to where we celebrate a holiday weekend without any loss of life. It is ALEA’s mission to ensure everyone makes it home alive and well. Through our campaigns, initiatives and proactive patrolling, we believe this goal will soon become a reality.”

This year’s Thanksgiving travel period began at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25, and ended at midnight Sunday, Nov. 29. The fatal traffic crashes occurred in Colbert, Coosa, Jefferson, Morgan, Russell, Tuscaloosa and Walker counties.

One pedestrian and a motorcyclist were among the eight individuals killed.

Of the six who were killed while traveling in vehicles equipped with seat belts, three were not wearing them at the time of the crash.

During the past two major holiday travel periods, Labor Day and Thanksgiving, ALEA Troopers have seen a decrease in traffic-related deaths. “We saw over a 60 percent decrease in traffic fatalities over Labor Day weekend and with nearly a 30 percent decrease during Thanksgiving, we are hoping to see that trend continue with more Troopers on Alabama roadways,” Secretary Taylor said.

ALEA has hired 118 Troopers since Jan. 1. The agency graduated one of the largest classes in recent history on Nov. 4, adding 52 new ALEA Troopers throughout the state.

Secretary Taylor said, “We greatly value the assistance from citizens and other motorists who work with ALEA to make our roadways safer. We ask everyone to continue to help us promote traffic safety in a joint effort to prevent crashes, injuries and fatalities throughout the remainder of the holiday season. Let’s all work together toward a holiday season with zero traffic-related deaths.”

EVENTS

5A

December 9, 2020

‘Cars Under the Stars’ to offer drive-in, double-feature movies at Madison City Schools Stadium this Saturday

By GREGG PARKER Gregg.Parker@madisoncountyrecord.com MADISON – For its premiere in Madison, “Cars Under The Stars: A Christmas Movie Event” will offer families and individuals a fun evening of viewing with a Christmas double feature on Dec. 12.

The City of Madison Parks and Recreation Department is sponsoring the evening for watching movies under the stars at Madison City Schools Stadium at 211 Celtic Drive.

Gates will open at 4 p.m.

“The Grinch,” a movie version of Dr. Seuss’ comical but touching holiday tribute, will start at 5 p.m.

Then at 7 p.m., the laughs will gear up with Chevy Chase and Beverly D’Angelo in the hilarious “Christ-

mas Vacation.”

Food vendors will attend to offer concessions during the movies.

“The social-distance-friendly event is an alternative holiday opportunity for families of the Madison community to still enjoy the Christmas season eve amid the pandemic,” according to a city press release.

Admission is free to the event, but organizers ask that moviegoers bring a canned food item for a local food bank. Families or individuals who plan to attend should pre-register at the city website, madisonal. gov. Click the “Community” dropdown list, and then click the “Special Events” option. Scroll down and click the “pre-register” link for the movies. Only one person in the

household needs to register for the event.

Sponsors will play an important role in this special event and will allow the city to offer excellent programming at little or no cost to Madison residents. “A sponsorship provides unique and rewarding opportunities for local businesses to partner with us to hold community events like this one throughout the year,” the release stated.

“Don’t miss this valuable chance to reach out to a new clientele in Madison and surrounding areas across North Alabama. Together, we can enhance the well-being of our community,” the release stated.

For a sponsorship application, visit madisonal.gov and follow the preceding steps to open the page.

Christmas Vacation staring Chevy Chase will be one of two movies shown at the “Cars under the Stars” event at Madison City Stadium on Dec. 12.

Chickens to fly virtually for Christmas Capers Monday, December 14

Knights of Columbus at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church hosts blood drive

By STAFF REPORTS MADISON – The Knights of Columbus, Assembly 2420 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church will sponsor its regular, bi-monthly American Red Cross blood drive on Dec. 19.

Hours for the drive will be 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The blood drive will be set up in the church basement.

For an appointment, visit redcrossblood.org, and click “Make your appointment.” Type “35758” in the “ZIP or Sponsor Code” box. Select the St. John blood drive from the list of events, and select the time that you want to schedule the ap-

pointment.

“The need for blood in Alabama and the nation is constant, and especially so now with COVID-19 continuing to threaten us,” John Horch with Knights of Columbus said. “With regard to the virus, we will be observing the suggestions from national and state officials and the diocese leaders for separation, disinfecting and cleanliness guidelines.”

“Your participation is greatly appreciated by the Red Cross and St. John’s Knights of Columbus, but most of all by those who need blood at this trying time in our nation,” Horch said. “Please take See BLOOD DRIVE Page 7A

New e Experiences e e e

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 (eft).

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MADISON – If you have not registered for the 2020 Christmas Capers, time is running out. The event will be held virtually on Monday, Dec. 14 with prizes awarded to several fortunate participants.

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.

“Due to COVID-19, 2020 will see the Madison Christmas Capers in a virtual version,” historical society president Debbie Overcash said. The capers will be held in December 2020.

“For prizes, we are accepting one registration person and per household.”

Individuals should email the completed forms for registration to MSHPSociety@gmail.com.

The historical society will announce prize winners via Facebook Live. Prize winners can pick up their gifts at Madison City Hall during regular business hours. Winners must present a valid photo identification to claim prizes.

There will be over $3,000 in prizes on 20 chickens this year. To register, email your name, address, phone number to mshpsociety@gmail.com Capers will be broadcast via Facebook Live @cityofmadisonal on Dec. 14 at 2 p.m.

Madison Station Historical Preservation Society strives to promote the preservation of architecturally and historically significant buildings and sites located within the City of Madison. For more information, email MSHPSociety@gmail.com or visit historicmadisonstation.com.

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EDUCATION

6A

December 9, 2020

Trio add playground feature for Girl Scouts Bronze Award

By GREGG PARKER Gregg.Parker@madisoncountyrecord.com MADISON – Kay Langiewicz and Sarah Rydbom, fifth-graders at Rainbow Elementary School, showed their campus commitment in selecting a service project for the Bronze Award in Girls Scouts.

For the qualifying project, the girls decided to create a hopscotch area at Rainbow. “Our theme was ‘space,’ because we’re the Rainbow Rockets. We took our time and painted the planets on the pavers,” Kay said. “We needed 10 pavers (and our parents … those pavers were heavy), primer, craft paints, brushes and sealer (which was so smelly).”

They installed the hopscotch pad in Rainbow’s pre-kindergarten playground “for the youngest of our classmates,” Kay said. “They will learn so many things, including their numbers, planets in correct order and how to take and play with others.” The area is “a fun place for

people to play,” Sarah said. Lilly Lungrin also helped with the project.

Kay’s interest in Girl Scouts grew when she was in first grade and her friend talked about all the fun activities that she was doing. “I knew I wanted to be a part of it,” Kay said.

Kay’s family often goes camping so she was prepared the outdoor aspect. “But Girls Scouts is more than that. I’ve learned computer programming and cybersecurity safety; how to be a friend; and mentoring younger Scouts, which helped me even at home,” Kay said. Her younger sister is now a Brownie.

Kay’s favorite ventures have been building a race car and learning first aid.

“I’ve learned Scouts are environmentalists and good at many different things. They have fun projects and teach us important skills,” Sarah said.

Achieving the Bronze Award interested Kay because she has “real-

ly learned to enjoy giving back and helping others through Girl Scouts.

I wanted to be a part of something that others, including my sisters, would see and use. (My sisters) would know that their big sister helped do something bigger and maybe pushed to do the same thing when they get older.”

Kay’s motivation centered with her mother and sister. “My mom helps lead the Brownies. My sister wanted to watch every bit of my work. They gave me the little push I needed,” Kay said.

Kay has been a straight-A student since third grade when she started receiving letter grades. She is enrolled in advanced math and the gifted program, was named “Student of the Month;” and has earned math and reading awards. “I hope to continue my straight-A streak into middle school,” she said.

Kay’s parents are Jason and Danielle Langiewicz. Sarah’s parents are William and Cheryl Rydbom.

For their Bronze Award in Girl Scouts, Kay Langiewicz, Sarah Rydbom and Lily Lungrin created this hopscotch pad in the pre-kindergarten playground at Rainbow Elementary School.

MacKrell, Zesinger help Madison Elementary for Girl Scout Bronze Award

By GREGG PARKER Gregg.Parker@madisoncountyrecord.com MADISON – During recess on sunny days, students at Madison Elementary School can enjoy a new addition to their playground as a result of the project that Lyla MacKrell and Natalie Zesinger have pursued to earn the Bronze Award in Girl Scouts.

Lyla, who is 10 years old, attends Madison elementary. Natalie, who lives in Madison, is a student at Randolph School in Huntsville.

Lyla joined Girl Scouts four years ago.

During that time, she has learned that being a Girl Scout “takes a lot of hard work and teamwork.”

When she committed to reaching the

Bronze Award, Lyla realized that she and Natalie would have to complete 20 hours of service to be successful with their project. Lyla decided that their effort would be worthwhile and often found herself “thinking how happy the kids who play on it will be.”

“We met with the principal of Madison Elementary School, Jamie Golliver, and Assistant Principal Demetria Freeman.

We got approval to do the Bronze Award, and we did it,” Lyla said. “I think it will benefit the community because the kids will be able to have fun with their friends by doing hopscotch.”

To prepare for their project, Lyla and Natalie needed primer and paint to decorate the pavers for the hopscotch pad.

They also used mulch to finish the ground-

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Lyla MacKrell and Natalie Zesinger received permission from Jamie Golliver, Principal of Madison Elementary School, and Assistant Principal Demetria Freeman to add a playground activity to earn the Girl Scout Bronze Award. work for the pavers in this improvement for Madison elementary’s playground.

Natalie’s parents are Mark and Janell Zesinger.

Lyla’s parents are Ryan and Heather MacKrell. “My dad Ryan works as an engineer at Redstone Arsenal. Heather, my

mom, works at the community college as the program director,” Lyla said.

The Bronze Award is the third highest award in Girl Scouts. The Girl Scout organization introduced the award in 2001.

Only Girl Scouts at the Junior level can earn the honor.

Workshop planned to give parents help with their child’s mental health

By STAFf REPORTS MADISON - Madison parents and guardians may want to mark their calendar for an important workshop aimed at their childrens’ mental well-being. It’s a Youth Mental Health First Aid Training for Parents, taught by social workers for Madison City Schools. The date is Saturday, Jan. 30, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Organizers of the workshop say Youth Mental Health First Aid is an 8-hour course that helps parents/guardians teach their child(ren) how to manage their mental health. Participants will learn a 5-step action plan that covers how to assess for the risk of suicide and link someone to ap-

propriate help. Participants will also learn risk factors, protective steps, warning signs of mental illness, and more mental health signs and management tips.

“Upon completion, participants will better understand the impact mental illnesses have on a person, their family and communities, said Madison City Schools social worker Briana Hawkins.

The event will be held at the Madison City Schools Central Office on Celtic Drive in Madison. There is a $30 fee that covers lunch and a participant book.

Only 20 slots are available so reserve your spot by emailing: bbhawkins@madisoncity.k12.al.us or hhicks@madisoncity. k12.al.us to sign up.

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THE RECORD • 7A

Columbia, Heritage lauded for eS2S network for military, civilian students

By GREGG PARKER Gregg.Parker@madison countyrecord.com MADISON – The Military Child Education Coalition has selected Columbia and Heritage elementary schools as top-four finalists for the Student 2 Student Outstanding Team Award and among Top Ten finalists for all age levels (elementary, middle and high school).

S2S and eS2S (for elementary) raise awareness about needs of transitioning students, both military-connected and civilian. “eS2S allows ambassadors to help new students ease into a friendly environment. It’s helpful for new students knowing they have support from peers,” counselor Macy Smith said.

Student Ambassadors make their schools a place where the new student feels accepted, welcomed and ‘at home.’ “Military kids move (up to) nine times during grades K-12 and change schools three times more often than (civilian) peers. That’s a lot of moving!” Heritage eS2S Sponsor Melissa Butler said.

“The S2S program provides

such an important leadership experience for these young leaders within their schools and throughout local communities,” Rob Frazier said about Columbia and Heritage’s work.

Frazier is Director of Marketing & Communications with Military Child Education Coalition.

“The eS2S experience was an awesome addition to our work at Heritage,” Principal Dr. Georgina Nelson said. “The program provided resources, training and support for all of our eS2S team … to meet needs of military families and those families new to Heritage.” eS2S Ambassadors serve as greeters at school events. In November, eS2S invited veterans in student families as special guests at lunch.

By selling doughnuts, these students raised almost $8,000 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tenn. eS2S donated lost-and-found items to North Alabama Foster Closet. They gave hygiene supplies and snacks to residents of Floyd E. ‘Tut’ Fann State Veterans Home in Huntsville. eS2S “dovetails beautifully

The Military Child Education Coalition has commended the Elementary Student 2 Student or eS2S outreach at Columbia and Heritage elementary schools. In the photo, Heritage ambassadors gather for an eS2S meeting. with our work in Leader in Me and implementing the ‘seven habits’ daily as a way of life,” Nelson said. Their ‘lessons learned’ have far-reaching implications to faculty, staff, students and families. “We’re grateful to be part of this great program for many years and honored as one of the top four elementary pro-

grams in the nation.”

Counselor Casey Gaines said Columbia fosters positive relationships with students and community. “Columbia currently has 852 students; 76 are new students, 50 active-duty military families and 228 impact-aid families. We’re proud of our 30 student ambassadors’

acts of service to peers and community.” eS2S Ambassadors representing Madison at the MCEC Virtual Education Summit 2020 on Nov. 17-18 were Adriana Gadomski, Lucy Herndon, Jaxon Kimberly, Blake Lugos, Chloe Powell and Savannah Velez.

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Former Madison City Board of Education President Ranae Bartlett was presented the prestigious “All State” Board member award at the Alabama Association of School Boards meeting recently. The All State Award commends up to five past or present school board members across the state who have exhibited exemplary boardmanship. Nominations are accepted in the early fall, and winners are announced during AASB’s convention in December. Bartlett is pictured here with MCS BOE member Greg Hulsey. She was nearing the end of her 2nd five year term when she resigned in October after being elected to the Madison City Council. The council appointed Alice Lessmann to replace Ms Bartlett on the school board.

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St. John’s address is 1057 Hughes Road.

For more information, call the church office at 256-722-0130 or Horch at 256-7723280.

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The American Red Cross is closely monitoring the outbreak of coronavirus disease and preparing to carry out its lifesaving mission in the event of any possible disruptions. The organization also is supporting public health agencies to help communities prepare. (redcross.org).

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WEDNESDAY

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State Swim Meet

Scholarship Signing Two Bob Jones baseball players have signed athletic scholarships for college. Patriots’ third baseman Slate Alford signed with the Mississippi State Bulldogs. Ryan West signed with Coastal Alabama East Community College. Page 2A

MORE SPORTS

Jazmin Powers Jazmin Powers is not one to sit idle in any aspect of her life. The second-year head coach of the Bob Jones girls basketball team is also active in her personal attempts to remain in top physical condition and her endeavor as a business woman.

Page 3B

COMMUNITY

Bob Jones took third place in both boys and girls divisions of the AHSAA State Swim and Diving Championships. John Choung of James Clemens was the lone individual state champion from the local schools. Photo by Brent Miller, AHSAA

Bob Jones takes third in state swim championships; James Clemens has lone local individual state champion

By BOB LABBE bob0873@yahoo.com

In The Service Looking back on his military service, Jerry Cowan believes “good soldiers go where you’re supposed to and do what you’re told to do.” Cowan served in Vietnam until January 1970 with 158th Aviation Battalion formed at Fort Carson, Colo. Page 4B

LIFESTYLES

MADISON - The Bob Jones swim and dive team took third place honors in both boys and girls at the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) State and Diving Championships held at the Huntsville Aquatic Center. Overall, local teams won eight medals by finishing in the top three of the individual races including John Choung of James Clemens winning the lone state championship among the local schools.

Choung, a sophomore for the Jets, took the state title in the 100-yard breaststroke with a finish time of 57.35 seconds.

For Bob Jones, the 2020 squads featured a continued rebuilding mode after losing a large amount of seniors in 2018. Last year, the Lady Patriots finished 13th in the state meet and were looking for a top 10 finish in 2020. The Pats had swimmers in 15 events and took advantage of super efforts for a unexpected third place finish behind state champion Huntsville (230 points) and run-

ner-up Westminster Christian Academy (180) by totaling 174.50 points just missing one of the state meet trophies handed out to the top two teams.

The boys had its best finish since 2015 by taking third place with 204 points finishing behind first place Huntsville (332) and Auburn (258). The Patriots entered the 2020 campaign with thoughts of finishing among the top three teams and qualified participants in 22 individual events and three relay races, which was the most in head coach See SWIM Page 2B

Atlanta Braves’ Dayton receives birthday gift of color Southern Plate Christy Jordan shows you how to create a bite size version of cherry cheesecake that’s perfect for parties and get togethers and gives you just the right amount of cherry cheesecake goodness in every bite.

Page 7B

THE BACK PAGE

Christmas Card Lane You can now take a drive to Madison’s historic downtown and enjoy this annual tradition. Page 4B

The former Bob Jones star player has been color blind his entire life

By BOB LABBE bob0873@yahoo.com WINTER HAVEN, FLA.- Grant Dayton has received an early Christmas gift. The current relief pitcher for the Atlanta Braves and former star player for the Bob Jones Patriots was presented with a special pair of glasses that has enabled him to see correct color for the first time in his life.

“I didn’t know what I’ve been missing all my life as now I see vibrant colors, especially the color red, that scream at me,” said Dayton.

On what was his 33rd birthday, Dayton was presented the special EnChroma glasses designed for color blindness by his wife, Cori, and his sons Decker, who will turn three on

Dec. 16, and Nolan, 11 months. Cori had arranged for a local news crews to drop by at a local baseball field near their home in Winter Haven, Fla. to see Dayton receive his surprise birthday present and try on the glasses. Once he was given the special gift he was almost speechless.

“Oh, my gosh. I was afraid these wouldn’t work,” exclaimed Dayton upon seeing the world around him in a much different manner than ever before. “I encourage others to check on the company’s website and take their color blind test. For me, the color red changed the most as before it looked similar to what most see as brown. I now understand why traffic signals and signs and emergency vehicles are red as the color stands out.”

Cori had seen the glasses on the internet and saw how expensive the devices are priced. She reached out to the company and explained to them Dayton’s dilemma. The parent company that manufactures the EnChroma decided to send the glasses in exchange for some publicity. The experience was not only breathtakSee GIFT Page 2B

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Grant Dayton wears his new EnChroma glasses while with his wife, Cori, and their two children. Dayton of the Atlanta Braves was presented the specially made glasses on his 33rd birthday, which will allow him to see colors.

2B • THE RECORD

December 9, 2020

Swim

Bella Daniel, the lone member of the Madison Academy swim team to qualify for the AHSAA State Swim and Diving Championships, placed third in one of her two entered events.

Wade Thaxton’s tenure since taking over the program in 2017.

For Madison Academy its lone qualifying athlete for the state meet did not disappoint as seventh grader Bella Daniel finished third in the 1A-5A 200yard Individual Medley with a time of 2:24.88 and seventh in the 100-yard Freestyle at 59.43.

Runner-up finishers at the state meet included Samantha Chan of James Clemens in the girls 100-yard Butterfly, Riley Groves of Bob Jones in the boys 100-yard Butterfly, Beau Broussard of James Clemens in the boys 100-yard Backstroke and the James Clemens boys in the 200-yard Medley Relay.

Here are the complete results of the local teams at the state meet: Boys: 200 medley relay- 2.

James Clemens, 1:35.07, 4. Bob Jones, 1:38.45; 200 freestyle- 8.

Joe Palenapa, 12, Bob Jones, 1:47.33; 200 IM- 4. John Choung, 10, James Clemens, 1:57.91, 5.

Jake Palenapa, 12, Bob Jones, 1:59.50, 15. Justin Roh, 8, Bob Jones, 1:05.81; 50 freestyle- 8. Michael Tretyakov, 9, Bob Jones, 22.19, 11. Cade McComb, 8, James Clemens, 22:34, 15. Boone Ramsey, 11, Bob Jones, 22.78, 24. Ben Woods, 10, Bob Jones, 23.40, 25. Josh Chubb, 9, James Clemens, 23.42, 26. Josh Lin, 12, Bob Jones, 23.45; 100 butterfly2. Riley Groves, 10, Bob Jones, 50.22, 5. Beau Broussard, James Clemens, 51.20, 10. Joe Palenapa, 12, Bob Jones, 53.53, 15. Mason Holtcamp, 11, James Clemens, 54.59, 18. Bryson Tesseneer, 11, Bob Jones, 56.88; 100 freestyle10. Michael Tretyakov, 9, Bob Jones, 49.26, 15. Cade McComb, 8, James Clemens, 50.00, 24.

Boone Ramsey, 11, Bob Jones, 51.50, 29. Ben Woods, 10, Bob Jones, 52.31, 30. Josh Lin, 12, Bob Jones, 52.35; 500 freestyle- 18. Nathan Johnson, James Clemens, 5:21.96; 200 freestyle relay- 4. Bob Jones, 1:30.57; 100 backstroke- 2.

Beau Broussard, James Clemens, 50.27, 4. Riley Groves, 10, Bob Jones, 52.52, 13. Bryson Tesseneer, 11, Bob Jones, 56.71, 18. Mason Holtcamp, 11, James Clemens, 57.81, 20. Alex Kulkarni, James Clemens, 59.91; 100 breaststroke- 1. John Choung, 10, James Clemens, 57.35, 6.

Justin Roh, 8, 1:00.02, 12. Jake Palenapa, 12, Bob Jones, 1:01.83, 22. Zach Mendenhall, 9, James Clemens, 1:05.06; 400 freestyle relay- 3. Bob Jones, 3:15.38.

Boys team scores- 6A-7A, 3.

Bob Jones, 204, 8. James Clemens, 123.

Girls: 200 medley relay- 4. Bob Jones, 1:50.85, 8. James Clemens, 1:54.02; 200 freestyle- 8. Jayme Simmer, 11, Sparkman, 1:59.87, 10. Anna Mead, 11, James Clemens, 2:00.97, 11. Hallie Mitchell, James Clemens, 2:01.78; 200 IM5. Samantha Chan, 9, Bob Jones, 2:10.26, 11. Jessica Nguyen, 10, Bob Jones, 2:19.33; 1A-5A 200 IM- 3. Bella Daniel, 7, Madison Academy, 2:24.88; 50 freestyle10. Constance Wang, 10, Bob Jones, 25.03, 12. Meli Mbuko, 7, Bob Jones, 25.14, 15. Regan Baker, 10, Bob Jones, 25.23, 16. Anna Chubb, 9, James Clemens, 25.58, 17. Sarah Shirley, 11, James Clemens, 25.61, 25. Lucy Ramsey, 11, Bob Jones, 26.22; 100 butterfly- 2. Samantha Chan, 9, Bob Jones, 56.19; 100 freestyle- 9. Regan Baker, 10, Bob Jones, 55.24, 12. Sarah Shirley, 11, James Clemens, 55.61, 14. Meli Mbuko, 7, Bob Jones, 55.66, 16. Constance Wang, 10, Bob Jones, 56.01, 17.

Anna Chubb, 9, James Clemens, 56.13; 1A-5A 100 freestyle- 7. Bella Daniel, 7, Madison Academy, 59.43; 500 freestyle- 6. Jayme Simmer, 11, Sparkman, 5:17.39, 8. Anna Mead, 11, James Clemens, 5:35.83, 9. Emma Williams, 11, 5:37.24; 200 freestyle relay- 6.

Bob Jones, 1:43.06, 8. James Clemens, 1:46.19; 100 backstroke- 9.

Emilie Tesseneer, 7, Bob Jones, 1:00.86, 19. Hallie Mitchell, James Clemens, 1:04.31; 100 breaststroke- 8. Jessica Nguyen, 10, Bob Jones, 1:10.49, 15.

Clara Choung, James Clemens, 1:14.60; 400 freestyle relay- 4.

Bob Jones, 3:41.45, 9. James Clemens, 3:48.87.

Girls team scores- 1A-5A, 13.

Madison Academy, 28; 6A-7A, 3.

The Bob Jones swim and dive team took third place honors in both boys and girls.

Bob Jones, 174.50, 8. James Clemens, 118.50, 22. Sparkman, 24.

In the diving competition, Ashley Ahrens of James Clemens took third in the 1-meter event. The sophomore tallied 342.40 points. Jessica Swartz, a junior at Bob Jones finished No. 12 with 265.65 points, Maggie Lawley, an eighth grader was No. 19 with 164.85 points and her

grade and squad teammate Ana Lara-Lemus was No. 20 with 152.80 points.

In boys, the final results included 6. Alec Benzek, 11, James Clemens, 336.95, 13. Griffin Gilmartin, 11, Bob Jones, 262.10, 17. Nolan Blakely, James Clemens, 164.40, 19. Mason Puhalovic, 8, Bob Jones, 151.25, 20. Nikolas Barnhart, 9, Bob Jones, 149.15.

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Scholarship Signing

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

What’s up at the

Two Bob Jones baseball players have signed athletic scholarships for college. Patriots’ third baseman Slate Alford, left, signed with the Mississippi State Bulldogs. Alford is ranked the No. 1 third baseman in Alabama and the fifth overall player

by PBR. The 6-3, 215-pound four-year starter has a .327 batting average with 11 homers and 81 RBIs. Ryan West, right, signed with Coastal Alabama East Community College of Brewton. The 5-8, 115-pound second baseman-shortstop played in 14 games in 2020 with a .375 batting average and scored 12 runs. Both players were alongside Bob Jones head coach Jared Smith at their signings held at the school.

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showed up wearing dark green pants and a navy blue/white plaid shirt,” said Cori. “I commented that it was an interesting choice of color combination. He looked at me puzzled and said, ‘my pants are navy blue.’ He explained his was color blind, but he never wore that outfit again. Also, he can’t see a sunburn unless it’s really bad.”

The gift of sight is certainly a special part of the body’s seven senses.

To have the overlay of color to go along with eyesight is something most take for granted, but for Dayton, who only sees about 10-percent of colors, today is a bright new world no matter if he remains with the Braves. At least he’s now able to see the true colors of his Braves uniform or the school colors of his Auburn Tigers, which before his new specs were brown or tan.

The EnChroma glasses come in both indoor and outdoor versions, which Dayton has. He added, “It’s a different world out there and I encourage others to check out the new world. For me, it’s been awesome.”

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ta Braves in 2019 and remains with the National League team today.

The just completed 2020 season, he pitched in 18 games with a 2-1 record and a 2.30 earned-run average. In the post-season playoffs, the Braves rolled through the first rounds winning five and losing none. Advancing to the National League Championship Series against the Dodgers, the Braves were up three games to one, but fell apart as the Dodgers took the series 4-3 advancing to the World Series, which they eventually won.

“It was a disappointing end of the season, especially being up 3-1 on the Dodgers, but we knew we had a good team going into the COVID-19 shortened season,” said Dayton. “It was a good year for me as I learned a lot about me. It was a productive year.”

While enjoying his new colorful world, Dayton awaits to see if he will be obtained for the 2021 season by the Braves or become a free agent. He said he loves the Braves and hopes to remain with the team.

“For one of our first dates, he

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ing for the entire Dayton family, a goldmine publicity for the business, but a change in the way of life for Dayton himself.

“I didn’t know until I was in my 20’s that I was color blind as it was hard for me to believe,” said Dayton. “Growing up the only trouble I really had was when I went fishing or hunting as the wildlife would blend in with the surrounding nature. I thought it was normal.”

Signed to Auburn University out of Bob Jones, Dayton was selected in round 11 of the 2010 Major League Baseball Draft by the Florida Marlins. He was later signed by the Los Angeles Dodgers and made his Major League debut on July 22, 2016 when he retired six of his seven batters faced, with two strikeouts against the St. Louis Cardinals.

He later underwent the very invasive and complex “Tommy John Surgery” to repair elbow damage in his throwing arm and missed a good part of the 2017 season and all of 2018. The left-handed pitcher was picked up off waivers by the Atlan-

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December 9, 2020

THE RECORD • 3B

Bob Jones girls basketball coach Jazmine Powers is also a professional photographer and takes her cameras on shoots and at her home studio as part of JLenay Photography.

Jazmine Powers, left, plays wide receiver for the Bama Fire women’s flag football team. She’s also the head coach of the Bob Jones girls basketball team.

Jazmine Powers Coach, athlete, entrepreneur

By BOB LABBE bob0873@yahoo.com MADISON- Jazmin Powers is not one to sit idle in any aspect of her life. The second-year head coach of the Bob Jones girls basketball team is also active in her personal attempts to remain in top physical condition and her endeavor as a business woman as she is the owner and principal photographer of JLenay Photography.

Powers, now 31, youngest of four children, was an All-State basketball player at Austin High and was invited to play in both the North-South All-Star Game and the annual Alabama-Mississippi All-Star Game. She also participated in baseball and tennis as a young girl, but always felt basketball was the most important sport for her and that decision led her to college and becoming a teacher and coach.

To remain in near tip-top physical condition, Powers lifts weights and other conditioning activities four days a week.

She also plays for the Bama Fire, a women’s flag football team based in Birmingham, which travels the Southeast looking for competition in the very competitive sport.

“I became interested in the sport while I lived in Birmingham and visited the team’s practice,” said Powers of her in-

troduction to the sport. “I actually didn’t know there was a Birmingham Women’s Flag Football League at the time. I love the competition of the sport as I’m a natural competitor. I love the fact grown women are sacrificing their time and money to have a sport they love.”

As a wide receiver and safety for the Bama Fire, Powers has earned the nickname “MVP” and was named the team’s offensive Most Valuable Player. Her forte is her speed as she’s able to run speedy and precise pass routes and has scored numerous touchdowns. The team practices each Sunday in Birmingham and Powers has returned to the team after a two-year layoff.

As a youngster growing up in the River City of Decatur, Powers had a huge interest in photos and had dreams of one day opening a studio similar to the one at Olan Mills. Her mother booked a family portrait session at the location and Powers loved the experience so much she knew one day she would take photos for a profession.

In college she would have a Kodak film camera with her and, as she stated, “captured memories” with the famed brand camera. Five years ago she stepped out and bought additional cameras and in 2016 began her paid hobby of JLenay Photography.

Bob Jones girls basketball coach Jazmine Powers take professional photos with her side business she calls JLenay Photography. Her subjects are wide ranging and include personal photos like this one of a good friend.

“I knew I had a sort of gift with the camera when I held a photo shoot with a college friend. I figured out the photos flowed well and looked great, so I thought I’d open my own business,” said Powers.

“Now I look back at those photos and know I have evolved as a photographer.

I love taking portraits. I have a studio at home with specialized backdrops and professional lighting. I practice taking photos of myself and family and friends.”

As an athlete on the football field, Powers has had her shares of bumps and bruises and broken bones. In 2016 while in the league championship game she was wearing gloves while playing her wide receiver position and after the game she took off her gloves and noticed one of her fingers was going in a different direction than her other fingers. She had it checked out and was told her finger was broken

during the game. She eventually had surgery to repair the break. She’s also suffered a concussion and a torn hamstring.

Through all of the disarray, she still loves the game.

“I’ve learned by watching games on TV and from my older brother, Jerraud Powers, who played in the NFL,” added the 5-foot-4 Powers. “I really enjoy playing as it keeps me active. I tell other women to find something active they enjoy doing and do that activity as much as you can.”

Her photography talents can be contacted at jlenayphotography.com and on her Instagram page.

As for having the eye behind the camera lens, Powers said photography is her passion.

“My desire is to capture beautiful people and moments for my clients. It’s the memories,” she added.

U.S. Paralympics Cycling Open to be held in Huntsville in 2021

By BOB LABBE bob0873@yahoo.com HUNTSVILLE- The City of Huntsville has announced the community will host the U.S. Paralympics Cycling Open on Saturday and Sunday, April 17-18, 2021 in Huntsville’s Cummings Research Park. Approximately 100 para athletes are expected to compete in the weekend’s cycling event, one of four domestic events which para athletes will use to qualify for the Paralympic Games in Tokyo next summer.

“We’re excited for the opportunity to experience the skill, determi-

nation and athletic prowess of these outstanding athletes and for all those who dare to dream and excel,” said Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle.

“As we re-chart our path to Tokyo, we are eager to safely get our athletes back on the road for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic hit,” said Ian Lawless, director of U.S. Paralympics Cycling. “With over 100 athletes competing to represent Team USA in 2021, this will be one of our largest domestic events of the year.”

The athletes will take to the course laid out through Cummings Research Park, the second largest re-

search park in the United States and fourth largest in the world, in three different types of road cycling events including the men’s and women’s road race, individual time trial and hand cycling team relay.

Toyota will be the presenting sponsor while additional local sponsors to be named at a later date.

Medalist Sports, organizer for the event, visited Huntsville in October to view different areas for the race course options and discuss planning and logistics with local government officials. More than 320 local companies are expected to support the efforts of these athletes of courage.

Ryan Boyle, champion paralympic athlete, will be among the expected athletes to participate in the U.S. Paralympics Cycling Open to be held in Huntsville in April 2021. Approximately 100 para athletes are expected to compete in the two-day event. Photo- Casey B. Gibson U.S. Paralympics Cycling

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4B • THE RECORD

December 9, 2020

In the Service

Cowan served with 101st Airborne Division in Vietnam

By SKIP VAUGHN The Redstone Rocket MADISON – Looking back on his military service, Jerry Cowan believes “good soldiers go where you’re supposed to and do what you’re told to do.”

When he was 19 years old, Cowan was assigned to a helicopter unit at Camp Evans in Vietnam in January 1969. Cowan served in Vietnam until January 1970 with 158th Aviation Battalion formed at Fort Carson, Colo.

This remote base was located 30 miles north of Hue and about 20 miles from the Demilitarized Zone.

He primarily filled sandbags, performed guard duty and other assignments, while dodging 122-mm rockets from the enemy.

“We had a lot of incoming,” he said. Cowan lost three good friends who were crew chiefs in Huey helicopters that got shot down in three separate incidents in February 1969.

Cowan saw more action there than at any time during his yearlong tour. “The other nine months

went pretty well -- nothing like the three months I was at Camp Evans,” Cowan said.

A Specialist Four, Cowan was promoted to Sergeant and then assigned to Hue and Phu Bai. He remained with the 101st Airborne Division but became a Technical Supply Sergeant. Six soldiers reported to him. Cowan’s role was ensuring the Chinook helicopters were ready to fly and to replace parts when necessary.

“We had infiltration of our perimeter lines a couple of nights while I was on guard duty,” Cowan said.

“We were on full alert one night. We were expecting to get attacked. It rained all night on us.”

His commendations include Vietnam Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal and Bronze Star. He left the Army as a Sergeant. “(Vietnam) was something, a bad experience, but I was just there to do my time,” Cowan said. “(Vietnam veterans) really haven’t gotten the credit that they’ve been due . . . They sacrificed their lives but didn’t get credit.”

Sergeant Jerry Cowan • Assigned to a helicopter unit at Camp Evans in Vietnam.

• Confirmed Chinook helicopters were flight-ready and replaced parts as needed while deployed to Hue and Phu Bai. • Earned Vietnam Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal and Bronze Star.

A Decatur native, Cowan now lives in Madison. After 33 years at the job, he retired from the U.S. Postal Service in 2006.

Cowan has two sons: Jeremy of Moulton and Jason of Gardendale.

His grandson Logan attends the University of Alabama in Huntsville.

Cowan, 71, plays with Huntsville Senior Softball. Each week, he works at his 30-acre farm in Lawrence County.

For more information, visit theredstonerocket.com.

In early 1969, Jerry Cowan was assigned to Camp Evans, 30 miles north of Hue, Vietnam. Photo from The Redstone Rocket

“In the Service” is sponsored by the

Six things to know about the Woodard Family Light Show

By ERICA DeSPAIN www.allthings madison.com to 97.1, parked against a curb that was already lined with three or four cars, and thoroughly enjoyed about 20 minutes of dancing Christmas lights choreographed to mostly holiday music. Simply watching our kids take it all in was the best part. (*Ahem* – The actual best part was that the outing was free!)

Woodard Family Lights I got in touch with homeowner and Christmas light extraordinaire Keith Woodard to get the nitty-gritty on how (in the world!) he makes this possible.

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MADISON - I’d been tagged numerous times by local friends to check out the Woodard Family Lights in central Madison, so last night we finished up dinner at home and then buckled up our three young daughters in the car to go for a spin to get us closer to bedtime (if you have/had young kiddos, you surely know what I mean!)

We headed over to 228 Knotting Place off of Gillespie Road, and as soon as we turned onto the street we knew we were in for a treat.

We flipped the radio

1.) When and why did you start the light show?

I started my show in 2013. At the time, it was a fairly simple show that has now grown into the show as seen in this year’s show. I began the show as a way to use my engineering background in a fun, creative way.

As a child, I always loved Christmas light displays. After seeing some videos of animated lights shows, I thought it would be a fun hobby to use my electrical and software engineering background.

2.) What is special about this year’s display?

This year’s display is a continued expansion of my show with more lights and new songs as well.

Also, new for this year is an interactive feature where viewers can request a song by visiting our website at vote.woodardfamilylights.com. In a year where we’ve all been trying to social distance, I hope the show provides some fun, safe entertainment that families can enjoy together.

3.) What tips do you have for those planning to drive by the light show?

I’d recommend coming by on a weeknight and early in the season if possible. As Christmas approaches, traffic can get a little backed up on the weekends and I would like to try to avoid traffic headaches that annoy the neighbors.

• Tune the radio to 97.1 FM. • Turn off your headlights

The Woodard Family Lights will run nightly through Christmas from 5 – 9 p.m. to keep from blinding other viewers.

• Make sure you are not blocking anyone’s driveway.

• Please keep your radio at a reasonable volume so as to not disturb the neighbors.

• Please do not enter the yard or display area as there are a lot of hard to see wires and cords.

• For best viewing, enter the neighborhood from Gillispie road.

4.) What do you love about doing this show year after year?

This has turned into a year-long hobby and I put a considerable amount of time into getting the show ready. What makes it worth all the effort is seeing the joy it brings to people, especially children.

Seeing kids hanging out of car windows, sitting on the sidewalks, and dancing with the lights makes the effort worthwhile.

5.) What do your neighbors have to say?

My neighbors have been

supportive (at least I haven’t received any complaints from them yet). I try to be respectful of them by ending the show at a reasonable time and trying to keep the traffic from interfering too much.

6.) What advice do you have for others who would like to create something like this at their home one day?

A show can be a great, fun experience but it

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Please note: The Woodard Family Lights will run nightly through Christmas from 5 – 9 p.m.

Please avoid overcrowding the street as Woodard is aware of other light shows that ultimately have to be taken down due to traffic issues. In a nutshell, go as early in the month as possible and during a less popular time if able (i.e. closer to 5 p.m. or between 8-9 p.m.)

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takes a lot of planning and work. If someone wants to do a show, I would encourage them to start small and start early.

There are a lot of great resources for people starting out. If someone is interested in doing a show, they can reach me on my Facebook page and I can answer any specific questions.

To see some videos from our ride over last night, head to the All Things Madison Instagram page!

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December 9, 2020

THE RECORD • 5B

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December 9, 2020

THE RECORD • 7B

Need some courage and peace?

By BECKY MILLER God’s Lemonade Stand This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go (Joshua 1:9, NLT).

Is there anyone out there who says they have it all together and in need of no comfort, peace, and calmness? Pretty rare these days with all that is going on in our country.

Everyone needs good friends to keep them motivated and we need human contact and these months of Covid have caused many to despair and lose hope.

God can help you have courage to face whatever comes your way. When you wake up and would rather just go back to bed get a good Christian radio station on or an App that reads scripture to you. Demonic spirits are out there and they send deception, fear, doubt, and don’t want you to have peace. Say devil in Jesus name you have no power over me.

Stand strong, pray, don’t doubt.

PRAYER: How I love the word of God and I want to be strong each day Lord and defeat the lies of Satan. Help me to help another struggling too. 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. She can be contacted at writemiller2002@yahoo.com.

Cherry Cheesecake Bites

December 2020 / $4.95 madisonlivingmagazine.com

By CHRISTY JORDAN

INSIDE: Madison’s Family of the Year

Southernplate.com

I love Cherry Cheesecake around the holidays because my Grandmama used to always make a cherry cream cheese pie for me this time of year.

She was actually allergic to the red cherries but still made it because she knew it was my favorite – now that’s a good grandmama!

The problem I encountered then is still much the same as now, I can’t hardly be left alone with that pie because it is just too stinking good. So this year, I set out to create a bite size version of cherry cheesecake that’s perfect for parties and get togethers and gives you just the right amount of cherry cheesecake goodness in every bite.

I could not be more thrilled with these Cherry Cheesecake Bites!

They are everything I hoped for and more, all that is good and wonderful about a cherry cheesecake rolled up into a bite size ball of goodness. The taste of graham crust sprinkled throughout makes them even better than the original in many ways!

For this recipe, you’ll need: Sweetened Condensed milk, Vanilla, Graham Cracker Crumbs, Cherry Pie Filling*, and two bricks of cream cheese.

If you want, you can also add a tablespoon of bottled lemon juice.

I added it to one batch and forgot to add it to the other and both were very good. So if you have it on hand, go for it. If you don’t have it on hand, don’t go buy it just for this. *On the cherry pie filling: I’m usually all about generic ingredients and saving money but when it comes to pie filling, the less you pay the fewer cherries you get these days. With that in mind, I recommend paying the extra fifty cents or so to get a “premium” cherry pie filling and avoiding the generics.

Now, if y’all have used a generic that was chock full of cherries, please let us know in the comments exactly what brand it was and where you got it because that would be very helpful! In the meantime, if you want to play it safe, the brand pictured has never let me down.

In the directions at the bottom I am suggesting two boxes of graham crumbs. That is because you will have to skimp to have enough to coat them with. You’ll end up with a lot of extra crumbs but there

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For this recipe, you’ll need: Sweetened Condensed milk, Vanilla, Graham Cracker Crumbs, Cherry Pie Filling, and two bricks of cream cheese. Imagine there is some vanilla here. You know, dark brown bottle, smells like cookies, etc. Close your eyes and picture it standing just to the right of the sweetened condensed milk. Got it?

Cool. Thanks! are so many uses for them during the holidays – like making Cherry Cheesecake Bites again after these have been inhaled!

Place condensed milk, cream cheese, and vanilla in a mixing bowl and beat with an electric mixer until smooth and well blended.

If your cream cheese was not room temp, this is going to take a little more time so you really really need to let that get to room temp.

Dump the entire box of graham crumbs on top of dough. Mix again until it is the consistency of cookie dough, scraping down sides if needed.

Now, I’m not here to judge or anything but I will tell you that you’re crazy if you don’t get a pinch of this right now to taste!

Dump entire contents of Cherry Pie Filling into dough.

Mix that gently with an electric mixer until just blended and then stop. We don’t want to overmix because we’ll make all of those little bits of cherries disappear into the dough.

Cover this and place in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or until well chilled.

Roll refrigerated dough into one inch balls and roll those in the additional graham crumbs. Once all the cheesecake bites are made, store, covered, in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to serve.

These little bites are wonderful to take to a party or family get together. They remain firm and are so easy to just pick up and pop in your mouth! When you make a batch, keep a few in a container in your fridge to grab a bite when the holiday sweet tooth hits!

Ingredients • 2 - 8 ounce packages cream cheese at room temp • 1 - 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk • 2 box graham cracker crumbs 1314 ounces each* • 1- 21 ounce can cherry pie filling get some name brand stuff so you have more cherries than gel mess • 1 teaspoon vanilla • 1 tablespoon bottled lemon juice optional Instructions Place condensed milk, cream cheese, lemon juice (if using), and vanilla in a mixing bowl and beat with electric mixer until smooth and well blended.

Dump the entire box of graham crumbs on top of dough. Mix again until it is the consistency of cookie dough, scraping down sides if needed.

Dump entire contents of cherry pie filling into dough and mix gently with an electric mixer until just blended. Don’t overmix because it will break up all of the cherries to the point that they disappear into the dough.

Cover dough and place in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or until well chilled.

Roll into one inch balls and roll those in the additional graham crumbs. Once all the cheesecake bites are made, store, covered, in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to serve.

Notes * You can get by with one box but I recommend two so you have enough to roll them in should your dough need additional crumbs to be made stiffer. If you decide to double this recipe, you’ll only need three boxes.

Home for the Holidays

Christmas traditions, both cherished and created, fill festive Madison home Madison Living 1

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

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For the latest news updates:

themadisonrecord.com 1 OUT OF 10 ELDERLY PERSONS AND ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES ARE BEING:

Abused, Neglected or Exploited If you suspect this is happening to someone you know, please report it to Adult Protective Services by contacting your local DHR office or calling the

ADULT ABUSE HOTLINE at 1-800-458-7214

HELP STOP THE ABUSE IF YOU SEE IT, REPORT IT

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.

Check us out at: themadisonrecord.com

Thereʼs no excuse for

ELDER ABUSE “This project was supported by Subgrant #18-VA-VS-050 #16-VA-VS-076 awarded by the Law Enforcement / Traffic Safety Division of ADECA and the U.S. Department of Justice.” The opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication/program/exhibition are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice or grant-making component.”

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8B • THE RECORD

December 9, 2020

Christmas Card Lane, an outdoor, life-size card exhibit located in the Madison’s historic district, is now ready to view. There are more than thirty designs on display. Drive along Church and Front Street, in the historic downtown neighborhood, to enjoy this visual holiday delight. Madison Arts Council or MAC is sponsoring Christmas Card Lane. Local artists exhibit their outdoor, life-size cards in homeowners’ front lawns.

“You will find whimsical, traditional and religious themes among the many designs on display,” MAC President Tina Clark said.

Madison natives, The Beasley Brothers plan annual Christmas concert at the Princess Theater Dec. 18

By STAFF REPORTS 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 December 18 starting at 7:30 p.m.

The Beasley Brothers is a Americana/Rock music group originally from the Madison area, but now based in Nashville.

From being selected as one of the top North Alabama bands in 2015, to opening for Kansas, The Beasley Brothers have made their name known throughout the southeast.

From the ages of 3 and 4, Jackson

and Lawson Beasley spent most of their time with toy guitars singing along to anything ranging from The Beatles and Eagles, to the CMT top 20.

Now Lawson and Jackson perform as The Beasley Brothers along with their band. They perform at a variety of different events ranging from weddings and parties, to large music festivals throughout southeast.

The Beasley Brothers have released three EPs to date, entitled “The First One”, “Here We Go Again” and “I Can’t Believe It’s Christmas Time”, and have begun work on their fourth album. You can stream their most recent singles, “Stayin’ Here a While” and “Summertime” on any digital music Jackson and Lawson Beasley provider. In addition, they are per- events throughout 2020. This is the forming at a number of venues and fifth year for the Beasley Brothers

to host their Christmas show. For more info: thebeasleybrothers.com.

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