Our Town

2010 2010 Guide to businesses in the Jacksonville community Jacksonville Medical Center is this year’s featured business.

The hospital has been serving the community since 1976.

See pages 12 & 13.

2010 Guide to businesses in the Jacksonville community

Jim Edmondson is the new CEO at JMC

Photo by Anita Kilgore

2

April 2010

The Jacksonville News

Body Kneads offers ways to ease stress

Nu-Kleen cares for customer needs Nu-Kleen Cleaners, located at 209 Francis St. E., is the home for all your dry cleaning needs.

The Warmack family — Bobbye, Ed, Doug and Kyle — opened their business in August 1967 and have been working hard to serve Jacksonville and the surrounding community ever since.

Offering a full line of dry cleaning services, as well as shirtlaundering, drapery cleaning, formal wear care, wedding gown preservation and alterations, Nu-Kleen Cleaners can attend to all your needs in a timely and efficient manner.

“We are a family owned and operated business,” explained Bobbye Warmack, expressing the fact that her staff of courteous, hard-working professionals take great pride in putting out a great product. “We take care of the needs of our customers personally.”

So, no matter if you like your collars starched a lot or just a little, if you want those hemlines shortened or lengthened, or if you need just a wee bit of altering to make you look your best, Nu-Kleen Cleaners will fix you up right.

With a keen eye for detail and a caring attitude, Nu-Kleen Cleaners guarantees its work to be top quality at competitive prices.

Since 1967

NuKleenCleaners L A U N D R Y 209 Francis St E, Jacksonville

256.435.5263

Complete dry cleaning Quality & Service

• • • • •

Shirts laundered Alterations Drapery cleaning Formal wear care Wedding gown preservation

Stressed? All knotted up? In constant pain? Call Ginger Bunn, LMT, NCMTB and her professional staff at Body Kneads Therapeutic Massage.

Five years ago, Ginger Bunn, who had worked in both spa and chiropractic settings in Atlanta before moving to Calhoun County, saw a need in the area for massage and other spa services. Feeling welcomed in Jacksonville, she decided to open her office here.

Although Body Kneads offers a serene and peaceful environment promoting relaxation and stress relief, it is no run-of-the-mill day spa. Bunn and her associates offer the highest standard of medical massage, accepting referrals from area physicians and chiropractors.

In addition to therapeutic massage, Body Kneads also offers colonics. Bunn received her certification as a colon hydrotherapist in Atlanta. She also holds certification with the International Association of Colon Hydrotherapy at the advanced level.

“Each of our massage therapists is state licensed and nationally certified, the highest level of education a therapist can achieve. We specialize in evaluating individual client’s needs and customizing the session to achieve the best results for each client,” said Bunn.

Clients may choose from relaxation, pregnancy/ postpartum, deep tissue, neuromuscular, myofacial release, sports (pre and post events), trigger point therapy or reflexology. Any of Body Kneads’ sessions can be upgraded to include hot stone therapy and couples’ sessions are also available.

Located at 209 Pelham Road South, Body Kneads offers several additional “health-minded”, such as

herbal body wraps, infrared sauna treatments, herbal supplements and weekly yoga classes. Both gift cards and package pricing are available for any of Body Kneads’ services.

Bunn is certified by the International Association for Colon Hydrotherapy at the instructor level and by the National Board for Colon Hydrotherapy. This is the highest level of certification that can be achieved and allows her to train and certify others in the field of colon hydrotherapy.

Bunn and her friendly staff will be happy to answer any questions you have concerning Body Kneads’ services and schedule your personal appointment. They can be reached at 782-BODY (2639).

Body Kneads

Therapeutic Massage

Therapeutic Massage, Colonics, Weekly Yoga Classes, Herbal Body Wraps, & Infrared Sauna Treatments Call for an appointment

256.782.BODY (2639) Ginger Bunn, LMT, NCMTB

Certified Colon Hydrotherapist, I-ACT Certified Instructor

209 Pelham Rd South Jacksonville, AL 36265

Get Personalized offers ALFA unique customer service offers great services

If you want to personalize a jacket, shirt or whatever, call on Tressie Britton and her staff at Get Personalized.

Opened in May 2003, Get Personalized can get almost any style jacket made and put whatever you want on it to make it special for you. “We saw a need for a good quality personalization that offers top-notch customer service,� said Britton.

Britton and her employees embroider, custom-design apparel and personalize gifts including sports apparel, totes, baby gifts, backpacks, bags and lunchboxes.

The store has been in its current location since 2005. It was a move that gave Get Personalized more retail area, which allowed Britton to add new lines and products, including their new line of casual children’s clothing.

One of those added

lines are awards for any occasion, including sports teams. The awards are done in full color laser sublimation, which gives Get Personalized the ability to reproduce almost anything. They have sublimated hand-written poems, wedding invita-

tions, birth announcements and black and white photographs. “We also offer plaques in full color with team logos or pictures,� said

Britton.

The inventory changes often, and Britton’s goal is to add at least one new product each month. “Our business is very customer service oriented,� said Britton. “Our customers know their input is always important, and we welcome custom orders and special projects.

We strive to give the highest level of service by offering high quality products and on-time delivery.

Customers are also welcome to bring in their own items for personalization.�

Located at 213 Pelham Road S., Get Personalized is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and from 9 a.m. to noon on Friday and Saturday.

Additional hours are available by appointment and they can be reached by calling 782-1122 or by email at getpersonalized@hotmail.com.

ALFA Insurance Company, originally Alabama Farm Bureau, opened its office in Jacksonville in 1975 after recognizing a need for a service center to serve customers in Jacksonville.

Located in the Calhoun County Farmers Federation Building, the company changed its name to ALFA in 1987.

ALFA offers various types of insurance to their customers, including auto, home, life, business, commercial, health and dental insurance. They have a full-service claims office in the service center as well.

Through the variety of insurances offered, ALFA can meet almost any insurance need with fast, friendly service.

Get personalized Embroidery, Awards, and Gifts

“When you call our office, you talk to us, not a machine,� said Randy Cosper, who has been in insurance for 27 years.

The staff of ALFA has a combined 73 years of experience. In addition to Randy, the office holds Alice Donford in claims and customer service with 10 years on the job; Reese Newman, an adjuster with 6 years of experience; Lisa Coleman with 31 years of experience in customer

service; Jamie Cosper, who has worked as an agent for two years and Becky Faust with a year’s experience.

Jacksonville’s ALFA office can be found at 1535 Pelham Road South and can be reached by phone at 435-5227. The group offers competitive rates from a company located entirely in Alabama and information on the company can also be found online at alfains.com.

Great

protection,

moresavings.

3BOEZ $PTQFS 1FMIBN 3E 4 +BDLTPOWJMMF "-

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+BNJF $PTQFS 1FMIBN 3E 4 +BDLTPOWJMMF "-

No matter what line of insurance you’re looking for, Alfa’s™ known for great claims service and our friendly, person-to-person way of doing business. Now, our rates are more affordable than ever. And, when you buy auto and homeowners insurance from Alfa, we can lower your rates even more.

Without lowering Alfa’s high standards of service.

213 Pelham Road, South Jacksonville, AL 36265 256-782-1122

Let’s talk about tomorrow.

getpersonalized@hotmail.com

AUTO • HOME • LIFE w w w. a l f a i n s . c o m

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4

April 2010

The Jacksonville News

Jacksonville Discount Carpet and Flooring offers quality for less Mike Moore and George Watson, the co-owners of Jacksonville Discount Carpet and Flooring, noticed that Jacksonville residents, contractors and apartment owners had to go out of town to fill their flooring needs. With Watson’s background in construction and Moore’s experience in retail, they felt they could fill that need and provide quality service to their community.

The store, located on Alabama Highway 21 South behind Sonic, carries a full line of carpet, hardwood, laminate and vinyl flooring as well as porcelain and ceramic tiles. They offer well-known brands such as Shaw, Mannington, Congoleaum, Armstrong, WilsonArt and many more. All installers are certified.

“We are a Mohawk Color Center, joining a family of more than 800 retailers nationwide,” said Moore, adding that Mohawk is the number one carpet manu-

2 3 C5 AL L 3 5 5 2

facturer in the world.

The store has products for both commercial and residential use and their products are all firstquality, but are sold at discount prices.

Jacksonville Discount Carpet and Flooring offers free in-home measuring and estimates. They added a new showroom to the building this year, featuring many of the products they sell installed

Wondering how to advertise for a yard sale, sell your car, promote your business, announce a birth or wedding?

The Jacksonville News can help you

235-3552

on the floor.

“It’s a great way for the customer to visualize what a product will look or feel like in their own home,” said Moore.

The store is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. In addition flooring, Moore and Watson also own and manage the storage facility on site.

acksonville iscount

Conveniently located behind Sonic 50 Whites Gap Rd SE

carpet flooring 256.782.1530

MAY SPECIAL FREE Basic

Carpet Installation on anything in the showroom with the mention of this ad.

Offer Ends May 31, 2010

5 Gamecock Jewelry and Pawn Fresh-cooked taste key to Rocket success

The Jacksonville News

April 2010

has wide range of merchandise Terri Bowen started Gamecock Jewelry and Pawn over 10 years ago. She and her husband, Danny, felt a college town would be a great location for a business that buys and sells second-hand merchandise.

Three years ago, as the Bowens prepared to retire, they sold the business to Curtis Sessions.

Initially located across from McDonald’s on Pelham Road North, Sessions moved Gamecock Jewelry and Pawn to the southern end of town as Walgreen’s moved in at his former site. For now, they are located four buildings south of Sonic on Pelham Road South.

Beginning May 1, Gamecock Jewelry and Pawn will be moving to the former Michael’s

Cleaners location next door to Get Personalized and Body Kneads.

Sessions prides himself on treating his customers right, saving his customers money by offering quality products second hand and by offering layaway.

“We keep a wide range of merchandise including electronics, video games, jewelry, DVDs and guitars,” said Sessions, adding that soon the store will be adding a selection of handguns and long guns.

Gamecock Jewelry and Pawn is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday; from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday.

There are few businesses that truly deserve to wear the mantle of an icon. The Rocket is one local business, however, for whom that moniker fits.

Home owned and operated by Gary and Patsy Marbut, The Rocket has been a staple of Jacksonville’s food service community since it originally opened in 1958.

Known for its old-fashioned hamburgers and hickory smoked barbecue, The Rocket attracts numerous visitors to the area daily who have been lured by the chance to eat at one of the South’s finest restaurants.

The tantalizing scent of hamburger patties sizzling on the grills and scrumptious pork basting in some of the most flavorful

and aromatic sauce around has been known to draw in dignitaries and community leaders.

The secret to The Rocket’s success and longevity in the local community is the care the Marbuts use in preparing the dishes they offer their customers.

“Our food is not precooked,” explained Gary, hinting at one of the reasons why The Rocket just plain tastes better. “Each order is individually prepared.

Your patience will be rewarded with quality and taste.”

Located at 1508 Pelham Road South, The Rocket is open seven days a week. Its hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. Friday and

Saturday and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Sunday.

Whether you are in the mood for Gary’s famous double meat burger, What-A-Burger, foot long chili dog, homemade beer battered onion rings, Rocket Burger, barbecue salad, barbecue snack, chicken finger plate or any of their other offerings, The Rocket is sure to have something to satisfy your hunger.

Offering dine in or carry out services, The Rocket can fix a meal to feed a family of four or an army of 100. Ask about their catering services for your next function.

For more information about available items at The Rocket, prices and service, contact them at 435-6516.

The Rocket

1

Family-owned restaurant since 1958

1518 Pelham Rd. S, Jacksonville • 256.435.6516

Dine-in or car r y-out • Menus available Open Sunday 11am-9pm, Mon-thurs 10am-9pm & Fri & sat 10am-10pm

1202 PELHAM RD S, N. SUITE JACKSONVILLE, AL 36265 256.435.8806 or 256.343.6351-Cell

Curtis Sessions, Owner Car Audio • Title • Loans • DVD’s • Jewelry • Tools • TV’s • Video Games

If we don’t have it, we will find it!

Sandwiches Hamburger Cheeseburger Hickory Smoked BBQ Chicken finger Corn dog What-a-Burger Fish Footlong chili dog

“Made when you order”

Sides Baked Beans Cole Slaw Onion rings Fries Chicken fingers Corn dog Potato Salad Side salad

Bottomless tea Coke Diet coke Dr. Pepper Sprite Mellow yellow

Homemade BBQ Sauce, Old fashioned hamburgers, Hickory smoked BBQ, “Cooked fresh to order” Plates w/ two sides BBQ Desserts, Salads, Snack baskets BBQ Sandwhich w/ fries & choice of and more!

Slaw or baked beans Cheeseburger

Snack Baskets w/ fries Rocker Burger Deluxe Cheeseburger BBQ snack Twin Burger Shrimp Twin BBQ Chicken nuggets Twin Cheeseburger Chicken fingers

Hamburger Steak Grilled Chicken Chicken finger Fish

6 April 2010 The Jacksonville News Jacksonville Home Center offers experienced staff, quality products

When Bill Newman opened Jacksonville Home Center on April 2, 2007, he had been thinking about opening a store in Jacksonville for a few years.

After purchasing the building from Jacksonville Building Supply, Newman added 6,000 square feet onto the existing building, renovating and updating the interior as he went, and put in new lumber racks beside the store in the lumberyard.

Newman also made sure he had a knowledgeable staff who knew construction and home repair – a group capable of answering customers’ questions and helping them find the right tools for their job.

Jay Wilson, who began his career in the paint department and moved up in the company through the hardware, plumbing, tool, lawn and garden, and electrical departments became Jacksonville Home Center’s store manager. Jim Yeager brought his 11 years of experience to the lumberyard at the new store.

Harry Harner joined the company after retiring from Anniston Parks and Recreation Department and Wilson and Newman kept a familiar face from the building’s

former incarnation, Jessica Nabors.

“We’re a full-service store,” said Wilson. “We’re here to help everybody. We greet everybody at the door, ask them how they are, what they need.”

Services offered include lock re-keying, key making, lock installation, installed insulation, custom paint matching, tool repair, and custom orders. Their product line includes everything from hardware, plumbing, electrical, and paint necessities to welding products and the largest selection of specialty fasteners in the area. They are also Jacksonville’s only source for lumber, doors, windows, roofing, moldings, and numerous other building materials.

Jacksonville Home Center carries name brands every do-it-yourselfer, contractor and repairman knows and trusts, like Yellawood, Dewalt tools, Benjamin Moore paint and Silver Line windows.

The staff knows if you check out the stock of Jacksonville Home Center you will find the price, quality and service needed to get the job done right. If you have never experienced the joy of neighborhood service and warehouse prices, Wilson suggests you pay the store a visit.

If the store doesn’t have exactly what you need in stock, it can usually be special ordered and delivered within a week. They have a flat rate of $10 on deliveries in Jacksonville on purchases over $250.

Don’t want to pay for it with a check? No problem. The store offers house accounts.

Jacksonville Home Center is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

If you have a question, stop by the store, located at 200 Coffee Street right behind Hammett Service Center, or call them at 435-1966.

200 Coffee Street, Jacksonville, AL Phone 256.435.1966 • Fax 256.782.0775 Store Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Saturday 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Did you know? We install quality

shelving, shower doors, mirrors, locks, lighting, and bathroom hardware (towel bars, tp holders, etc.).

Home Buyer Facts Most home buyers replace basic shelving within the first few years of moving into a new home.

They replace the shelving because what the builders install doesn’t meet their priorities.

64% of new home buyers say they do not have adequate storage in their new homes according to the NAHB Study: What do 21st Century Homebuyers Want.

Closets are used twice a day, every day.

Home Buyers Demand Better Storage!

Better Homes and Gardens recently surveyed 2,000 home owners and discovered that the right amount and type of storage was their 2nd priority when buying a new home*! In addition, a recent Roper Research survey showed that home buyers rate large walk-in closets as the 2nd most important feature in their dream home**. In both studies, storage is second only to a state-of-the-art kitchen.

How can you build dream homes? Listen to the home buyer and give closets the attention they deserve! Make them second only to the kitchen in your next community. *Better Homes and Gardens, January 2008 research study **Gfk Roper Reports US, 2004-4, Q62, GfK Roper Consulting

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The Jacksonville News

7

April 2010

CCIC offers choices to their customers

Calhoun County Insurance Center is an independent insurance agency that has been operating in Calhoun County since 1959. Our main office is located in Jacksonville. We have recently opened another branch located in McClellan which is off to a great start.

We pride ourselves on being a complete insurance company.

We write home, auto, commercial, life and bonds. The best thing about being an independent company is that we have the ability to shop your insurance with several ‘A’ rated carriers, so you know you are getting the best rate. We have also made it easy and convenient for you to quote your insurance anytime day or night on our website www.calhouncountyinsurance.com, where you can quote and compare rates with all of our companies.

We have five licensed agents who go beyond the stated continuing education requirements to make sure we can give the

‘Shop Jacksonville First’

best answers and handle all of your insurance needs. It is not only having insurance that makes you feel secure, but also knowing that you are covered properly. That is what our goal is here at Calhoun County Insurance, to provide you with the best coverage and knowledge possible.

We’ll be there!

As your local, independent, agent, we’ll be there the day you come in for a quote...

BUSINESS

HOME The day you buy your first home...

The day your first child is born...

AUTO

LIFE The day you need to file a claim...

“Through all the changes in you life, we’ll be there to amake sure your insurance coverage keeps up.”

The City of Jacksonville recognizes the significant impact of the business community on its continued success and growth.

Municipalities in the state of Alabama rely on sales tax revenues generated by local businesses for the majority of their funds. Therefore, future prosperity for the city is directly tied to the success of our local businesses and industries as well as to Jacksonville’s ability to attract new businesses and industries and help existing businesses stay viable and grow.

Another important factor is the mutually beneficial impact of citizens shopping at businesses within Jacksonville’s corporate limits. The Jacksonville Merchants Association has been instrumental in encouraging residents to “Shop Jacksonville,” and in sponsoring, or helping to sponsor, events that draw citizens to Jacksonville, particularly in the downtown area.

The city applauds these efforts and stands ready to assist in whatever manner possible to continue this method of supporting and encouraging our businesses.

The mayor and council, along with other city officials, are sincere and diligent in their efforts to promote business development. The city of Jacksonville wants to emphasize to citizens that shopping locally provides the city with more revenues, which then enable the city to provide more and better services to our citizens.

So, the city of Jacksonville, for many, many reasons, urges its residents to “Shop Jacksonville First.”

The Mayor and City Council encourage all citizens to

Shop Jacksonville

First

We support our local businesses and merchants and say

Thank ank yo you for the many contributions they make to our great city.

8

April 2010

The Jacksonville News

Gold Star works to serve Calhoun County’s real estate needs Gold Star Realty has been in business in Calhoun County for over 25 years and they have 20 agents to serve you. Combined, those agents have a wealth of knowledge and experience for all your real estate questions.

Judy James, broker/owner, manages the Gold Star office at 1505 Pelham Road South in Jacksonville and invites everyone to visit her and the friendly staff of agents there to see how they can help with your real estate needs.

Ronald James, the other broker for Gold Star Realty, is often found at the Oxford office, located on Highway 78 East at Emerald Plaza. Ronald has an enormous amount of real estate knowledge and has been an instructor of the local real estate school for many years.

Perhaps you’re asking, “Why should I visit a real estate office?”

Well, there are too many reasons to cover here, but let’s look at a few of the more important ones.

Suppose you are looking for a house and are overwhelmed by all of the pictures in those great “homes” books. You can sit down at one of Gold Star’s computers, tell it what you like and let the computer do the looking for you.

How are your investments going? Are you getting the yield you want? Well, have you heard of Real Estate Investment Trusts? REITs are just another way to invest in real estate.

Millions of people each year buy “fixer-uppers” and turn them into prime rental property or resell them at a nice profit!

Do you really think you’ll live in your current house for the rest of your days? Statistics say “NO.” Even people who are extremely stable eventually “downsize.”

So, shouldn’t you be selecting “your real estate company?”

“All real estate companies can show and sell you ALL

of the houses listed in the Multiple Listing Service of Calhoun County,” said Judy. “Don’t call the company whose sign is in the yard! Choose a company and give it your loyalty and trust. Let it work for you. We not only want to earn your loyalty, but to also save you money.”

Give Gold Star Realty a call at 256-435-5000 or at our second location at 256-241-5000 and ask for one of their experienced “Stars of Real Estate” to assist you with all your real estate needs. You can also visit them on the web at goldstarrealtor.com to take virtual tours and view all MLS-listed homes in Calhoun County.

J’VILLE TAN

GOLD STAR REALTY The Stars of Real Estate

1505 Pelham Rd S Jacksonville, AL 36265 256-436-5000 2 Locations with over 20 agents to serve you

1716 Hwy 78 E Emerald Plaza Oxford, AL 36203 256-241-5000

Visit us on the web wwww.goldstarrealtor.com

You Deserve A Gold Star Realtor

9 Mr. Refrigeration works hard for customers

The Jacksonville News

News staff devoted to quality news for the community The news is always changing and over the last few years the staff of The Jacksonville News has changed to ensure their readers receive the best quality news and information possible. We have moved from our offices in Jacksonville to the Consolidated Publishing building, located at 4305 McClellan Blvd. Our drop box at the old office is still being used to take your letters and payments.

While the team now works in a new location, they are still dedicated to bringing you quality local news and information on community events.

Here is a small view of the staff it takes to put together your newspaper each and every week.

John Alred The News’ publisher, John joined the staff in April of 2006 after 32 years at the Gadsden Times. He was hired as the staff reporter after retiring from The Times and took over the job of managing editor in early 2007.

In 2010, John was named publisher. During his 35-year newspaper career, John has worked in the newsroom and the sports department as a writer and editor and in the advertising department as creative manager.

John is a graduate of Jacksonville State University and a member of the Jacksonville Exchange Club. He and his wife, Karen, live between Jacksonville and Piedmont.

He can be reached at 2353569 or by e-mail at jalred@ jaxnews.com.

David Jennings David joined The News in August of 2009 as news editor. He is a graduate from Jacksonville State University, where he served as president of the Student Government

Association. David and his fiancée, Lindsey Holcombe, attend Cherry Street Baptist Church in Attalla. There, he serves as Children’s Director. David currently lives in Jacksonville.

He can be reached at 2353552 or by e-mail at djennings@ gmail.com.

Eddie Burkhalter Eddie joined The Piedmont Journal in October of 2009 as news editor. Eddie has written for the Jacksonville State University student newspaper, The Chanticleer, and was a staff writer at the university’s News Bureau. He began a small literary press in 2008 that published two non-fiction titles.

He can be reached at 2353553 or by e-mail at eburkhalter@gmail.com.

Andrea Howard Andrea worked for several years in the circulation department of The Anniston Star before moving to Jacksonville to be the circulation manager of The News as well as a member of the layout and design team. Andrea is a graduate of Jacksonville State University with a B.S. in Secondary Education.

She can be reached at 2353551 or by e-mail at ahoward@ jaxnews.com.

Anita Kilgore As staff photographer, Anita has no peer. She has the uncanny ability to take a photograph and make it look like a work of art. Anita is also responsible for layout and design of the front page and all the news pages in the paper each week.

She can be reached at 2353551 or by e-mail at akilgore@ jaxnews.com.

If you would like to send mail, please send it to: P.O. Box 2285, Anniston, AL, 36202. Our fax number is 241-1991.

www.jaxnews.com

April 2010

Over 27 years since its inception in 1983, Mr. Refrigeration is still going strong. With business growing better each day, Steve Rogers and the employees at Mr. Refrigeration have proven to be hard working and diligent servants to their varied clientele.

Their daily efforts have raised the bar and set the precedent for all other heating and cooling business throughout the area to follow.

Despite the numerous technological improvements in the industry, they have maintained their position as the best in the area without sacrificing the value of their service, quality of their craftsmanship or the expertise of their work force.

“I feel we have competitive prices and we treat our customers as we do our friends and relatives, with honesty and respect,” said owner Steve Rogers. “I try to listen to our customers’ wants and needs to give them the best personalized service we can.”

Mr. Refrigeration covers all of Calhoun County and offers professional installation and service for virtually every heating and cooling system known to man. They also expanded over the last few years

to include a sheet metal shop.

There are three important things to remember which can improve the life of your heating or cooling unit: Change your filters regularly, check the unit each season (Spring, Summer, Winter and Fall) and check out Mr. Refrigeration’s new, efficient units.

They give free estimates. They will work on every make and model out there and are even authorized Trane, Heil and Rheem dealers.

The federal government is currently offering, until December 31, 2010, up to $1,500 in tax credits for customers who change out their system to qualified energy efficiency ratio rated heating and cooling products.

Be it residential or light commercial service that you are in need of, Mr. Refrigeration can stop by and take care of your problems.

New units are more energy efficient with the new R410A refrigerant. Call them for a free estimate or, to find out what Mr. Refrigeration, Inc., can do for you, stop by their office at 1410 Pelham Road South, next to Warren Ace Hardware or call office manager Rachel at 435-1904.

MR. REFRIGERATION Heating & Cooling mrrefrigeration@cableone.net

1410 Pelham Road South, Jacksonville, AL

256.435.1904

Commercial and Residential Service: Sales Repairs Installation Free Estimates

10

April 2010

The Jacksonville News

New faces at Jacksonville Health and Rehab

New faces can be found at Jacksonville Health and Rehabilitation and they are ready to take care of local residents.

Earlier this year, the facility announced that Brantley Newton would be the new administrator. Newton is a native of Tuscaloosa and is a graduate of the University of Alabama.

He has been employed by JH&R’s parent company, Northport Health Services, for the past 10 years. Prior to his arrival in Jacksonville, he spent the last 10 years working in the parent company’s facilities in Alabama and Florida.

“It’s kind of a labor of love so to speak,” said Newton. “Once you start in this business you start enjoying the people and the relationships you get to make with not only the patents but “Our goal is to do some innovated rehabilitation techniques their families as well. The homegrown atmosphere we enjoy at here at Jacksonville makes the job fun and helps with the for the elderly here at the Rehabilitation Center,” said Dr. Sparks. “There are a lot of new techniques in rehabilitating healing process.”

Newton and his wife, Sheryl, have been married for three the elderly that we have discovered in the last 15 to 20 years months. Newton says she works with helping others in the that were not utilized in the past, and as things usually go, old techniques tend to reproduce themselves over the years and nursing home business. we continue to use the same techniques, but now we have “It’s kind of a passion of ours,” he said.

Although Jacksonville Health and Rehabilitation has always new techniques that rehabilitate people faster and to a higher offered quality long term and Alzheimer’s / Dementia care, it is Newton’s goal to promote the changes the facility is making to their short-term rehabilitation program.

“Our goal is not only to help heal, but also to help prevent,” said Newton. “We want to get people healthy and back up on their feet, and then help prepare them so they can stay that way.”

The addition of Dr. Danny Sparks, an orthopedic surgeon with practices in both Jacksonville and Gadsden, as the facilities new rehabilitation clinical director should help accomplish that goal.

“The addition of Dr. Sparks adds convenience for patients to receive their rehabilitation, post-operative care, and follow-up visits inhouse,” said Newton. “The most unique aspect of this (Secure Unit) partnership is that our rehabilitation team, under the direction of Dr. Sparks, will be utilizing specific protocols for recovery set forth by our other partnering physicians.”

Dr. Sparks is married and has four children, two of Contact: Kristi Reed which, Daniel and Dierick Sparks, are orthopedic surMarketing & Admissions geons who work with their Coordinator father.

Jacksonville Health & Rehab, LLC “Our Family Caring For Yours” Long Term Care

Short Term Rehab Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care

410 Wilson Dr SW Jacksonville, AL 36265

(256) 435-7704

degree of functional capacity and those are the techniques we are going to institute in this community.”

One of those new techniques is the addition of Low Vision Therapy.

“Physical, occupational and speech therapy have always been an integral part of the rehabilitation services offered at Jacksonville Health and Rehab,” said Newton. “But we are pleased to add Low Vision Therapy to the growing list of quality services provided by Jacksonville Health and Rehab. It has been found that many people suffer injuries as a result of falls associated with decreasing vision related to conditions such as macular degeneration, cataracts, strokes, and diabetes. Our certified low vision therapist will work with patients to utilize the vision they still have in order to decrease the incidents of falls and subsequent injuries when they return home.

“At Jacksonville Health and Rehabilitation’s newly remodeled therapy gyms and highly qualified rehab department, the people of Calhoun County can feel confident they are receiving the best care possible,” said Newton.

For more information call 256-435-7704 or visit the facilities at 410 Wilson Drive S.W.

The Jacksonville News

11

April 2010

Crow Drug offers more than prescriptions A rich history of service to the healthcare needs of Jacksonville and the surrounding communities has helped Crow Drug remain a mainstay in the Jacksonville business community since its inception in 1935.

Owners Jay and Kathy Colvin continue to follow the grand tradition upon which Crow Drug was opened and which has helped it to flourish and prosper among the Jacksonville merchants’ community.

By continuing to bring high-

quality products, time-honored tradition and a friendly, familylike atmosphere, Crow Drug has stood the test of time and is an icon in the Jacksonville business community.

Crow Drug is a Health Mart pharmacy. This distinction doesn’t alter the store’s ownership, it’s still a locally owned pharmacy, but it does give them the ability to work with other locally owned pharmacies for advertising and to better serve their customers.

Almaroad Construction offers quality built homes Jacksonville native Mark Almaroad has been in the building industry for most of his life. He understands that a new home or renovations are a huge investment for the customer. Therefore, he works hard to insure satisfaction whatever the project maybe.

Give Mark an opportunity for your next construction needs.

“All the Health Mart pharmacies are still independently owned. It doesn’t change any of the day to day operations, it just allows us to pool our advertising dollars and have better buying power with the drug companies so we can have better pricing,” said Kathy.

Providing customers with friendly, courteous and professional service, the Colvins have guaranteed the class of service that customers have come to expect from Crow Drug, including free delivery inside Jacksonville city limits and an in-store wait time of only 10-15 minutes.

“We’re the only drugstore in town that does delivery,” said Kathy.

Crow’s also has an online pharmacy website where customers can order refills, e-mail the pharmacist and view personal drug profiles provided by a registered pharmacist. You can visit the site online at www.refillrx.com/ crowdrug.

While their primary business lies in meeting the pharmaceutical needs of their demanding public, Crow Drug also offers a wide variety of medical equipment, including canes, crutches,

nebulizers, bedside commodes, walkers, braces, humidifiers and vaporizers as well as insulin pump accessories.

Crow Drug works diligently to simplify your shopping experience by billing a host of insurance plans — including Medicare — for their durable medical equipment and pharmacy items, including diabetic glucose meters, strips and lancets.

Whether you are looking for jewelry, gifts for a baby, something for an Auburn or Alabama fan or flags for the garden you will find it at Crow Drug along with baby beds and strollers, Mollie & Me items and Doug & Melissa puzzles and picture frames.

They offer flu shot clinics twice a year, usually around the first of October and again around the first of November and recently

MIKE ALMAROAD

CONSTUCTION Quality Custom Built Homes

began offering shingles vaccinations as well.

Jay, Kathy and the staff of Crow Drug go out of their way to give personal service to each and every customer who comes through the door.

So, if you have a prescription to fill or just want to check out some of the many gifts available in their store, stop by Crow Drug’s No. 7 Public Square location.

With plenty of parking in both the front and rear, they can get you out and on your way in a hurry. Their hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. They are closed on Sundays; however, for after-hour current customers with emergencies, an emergency phone number is posted on the front and back doors of the store.

Full Service Pharmacy

On Jacksonville’s historic Square

Crow Drug

256.435.7931

Gifts

Business: 256.435.8263 Cell: 256.689.8263

Follow The Jacksonville News ON TWITTER: www.twitter.com/jaxnews

Left to right: Whitney Curtis, Ashley Badgett, Noah Colvin, Kathy Colvin, Holleigh Colvin, Jay Colvin, Daniel Lowery, Heather Boyett, and Glenda Burleson. Not pictured: Landon Bragg, Cory Bragg, Debbie Smedley and Melissa Rathke.

J

12

April 2010

The Jacksonville News

Jacksonville Medical Center adds advanced CT Scanner for faster, more accurate diagnosis

im Edmondson, new CEO at Jacksonville Medical Center, has announced the addition of an advanced scanner from Siemens Medical Solutions to their radiology department. The new CT scanner improves diagnosis and treatment of patients in the North Calhoun County area.

“With our new Siemens SOMATOM CT scanner, we are extending our commitment to giving this community the very best in healthcare” said Edmondson.

The innovative design of the CT scanner provides a completely open environment, eliminating the closedin feeling sometimes associated with CT. “Because of the system speed and reliability of this new technology, our patients will spend less time in the scanner and less time waiting for results” Edmondson said.

“Additionally, this particular model of CT scanner provides the fine, detailed images we need for more accurate diagnosis but with a low Xray dose” he continued.

“Our new CT scanner provides us with outstanding diagnostic information by enabling us to perform Multi-slice CT on a routine basis” said Edmondson. “For example, we can now scan geriatric, pediatric and trauma patients in a single breath hold, which results in more accurate diagnosis while also reducing examination time and increasing patient comfort. It allows us to take care of our patients in the best way and in a patient friendly environment.”

The SOMATOM CT scanner also allows the hospital to expand diagnostic services to substantially more patients in the region than ever before.

Anita Kilgore

Candice Farmer, Radiology CT Technician, demonstrates how the new Siemens SOMATOM CT scanner operates at Jacksonville Medical Center.

One of the major advances in medical technology, a CT Scan was once only available at large hospitals.

Jacksonville Medical Center is able to provide this advanced technology through its continuing investment in new medical equipment.

A CT Scan is a medical procedure used to diagnose a multitude of medical conditions. CT stands for computerized tomography. A CT Scan uses X-rays to produce cross-section images of bones and soft tissues inside the body. Similar to the slices of a loaf of bread, these images are much sharper and show much more detail than conventional X-rays.

The exam usually takes only a few minutes. CT scanners are shaped like a large doughnut with a long narrow bench going through the middle.

Unlike an MRI, which has a very enclosed space, a CT Scan is more open, so the patient is not likely to experience claustrophobia.

Recent news articles focused attention on the increased radiation exposure people are receiving from CT scans, in part due to the increased availability of the technology. However the new CT scanner at Jacksonville uses a low dose of radiation while providing clear detailed images.

The Jacksonville News

13

April 2010

...quality healthcare from people you know

Welcome Jacksonville Medical Center is pleased to welcome Shimi Porat, M.D. to our medical staff and community. Dr. Porat is Board Certified in Pediatrics. He has joined with Jacksonville Medical Center and is currently seeing patients at Brookstone Physician Center, 1701 Pelham Rd., South Suite, Jacksonville, AL 36265.

Dr. Danny Sparks Board Certified Orthopedics

Dr. Shimi Porat Board Certified in Pediatrics Now accepting new patients.

Immunizations given in office.

Please call 782-4256 to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Daniel Sparks Board Certified Orthopedics

Dr. Dierick Sparks Board Certified Orthopedics & Sports Medicine

ORTHOPEDIC ASSOCIATES OF JACKSONVILLE Serving the JackSonville area with 24-hr orthopedic coverage at JackSonville Medical center Since 2008.

New patients are currently being accepted at Orthopedic Associates of Jacksonville, located in the Mediplex, 1460 Second Avenue SW, Suite A, Jacksonville, Alabama. Please call 256-782-4395, Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, to schedule an appointment

...quality healthcare from people you know

14

April 2010

The Jacksonville News

Fourth degree black belt teaches Jacksonville residents T ed Turgeon had wanted to open a martial arts school for many years, but he wanted to be sure it was the right situation and the right location. When Mike Moore and George Watson, the co-owners of Jacksonville Discount Carpet and Flooring, approached him with an opportunity to have a school in a room of their building, everything seemed to fall into place.

Taekwondo America, a national organization, was interested in opening a Jacksonville loca-

tion, so Turgeon researched the organization and decided it would be the most beneficial to him and his students.

“We offer martial arts instruction in Taekwondo, women’s self-defense and beginner Jiu Jitsu,” said Turgeon, adding that a side effect of each class is exercise, better focus, discipline, leadership and fun.

Turgeon is a fourth-degree black belt with 23 years of experience and has been a Jacksonville resident for the past ten years.

Free trial classes are available and family discounts are offered. Taekwondo America can be found inside Jacksonville Discount Carpet and Flooring behind Sonic on Pelham Road South.

Classes begin at 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and at 10 a.m. on Saturday.

Jacksonville Bookstore has large selection of JSU gear

Jacksonville

TAEKWONDO AMERICA

Karate & Self Defense 50 Whites Gap Rd Jacksonvile, AL

Beside Sonic 256.310.0718 Ted Turgeon 4th Degree Black Belt

Fall Semester 2010: Visit us at 302 Mountain St., Jacksonville, AL Across from the new stadium.

Looking for that biology book? How about a Jacksonville State sweatshirt? The place to go is the Jacksonville Bookstore located “On the Square.”

The Jacksonville Bookstore has been serving the Jacksonville area since 1964. The store is open Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The bookstore has extended hours in the fall and spring when back-to-school time at JSU creates a rush for books.

If you can’t find a place to park on the Square, there is a parking lot for customers at the end of the block at the corner of Ladiga Street and Gayle Avenue.

Jacksonville Bookstore services JSU students, faculty and staff with textbooks, course materials and supplies including backpacks. The store also buys back textbooks from students.

“In addition to serving the college community, we service the local K-12 schools by stocking the novels needed for their outside reading lists,” said Cindy Turner.

And if you want to show your support for the Gamecocks, the bookstore offers a full line of Jacksonville State items including caps (men’s, women’s and youth as well as an authentic JSU baseball team caps), T-shirts, sweatshirts, ladies apparel, golf attire, jackets and socks, cheerleader uniforms, baby items, stuffed animals, Christmas ornaments, scrapbook items, diploma frames, engraved jewelry and business items.

You can also find tote bags, umbrellas, pennants, house flags, blankets, mugs, glassware, ID holders and checkbook covers, car decals, car tags – both pewter and mirrored, authentic mini baseball and football helmets, street signs and much more!

The Jacksonville Bookstore provides friendly, courteous and knowledgeable service to its customers. The phone number is 435-7407.

Got News?

Call 235-3552

The Jacksonville News

April 2010

Jacksonville schools: Teaching the nation’s future

Like any business, the Jacksonville City School system is a vital contributor to the local economy. However, the economic role of the school system is multiplied because it is not only one of the largest employers in the city, it is also the economic engine that produces top quality graduates to start new businesses, fill vacant jobs and provide ingenuity and leadership in the 21st century.

Schools are the only community business whose sole function is the business of building human resources capacity for the next generation. And every day the school system – from support staff, to teachers, to administrators to the school board itself – focuses on giving Jacksonville students the best possible chance to be leaders and innovators in the future economy.

Even though economic growth is sluggish at the moment, it is a proven fact that the economy goes through cycles, and return growth is a sure thing. What is not so sure is the direction of that growth – especially if one is looking to make predictions beyond 2021.

That’s right, the class of 2021 is already in school and preparing to lead America into the mid 21st century and beyond. To be sure, schools have, for more than a century, been charged with the task of preparing citizens for job innovations that don’t yet exist.

The first automobile engineers, mechanics and assem-

bly workers all went to school in the age of horse-andbuggy. They innovated, improved efficiency, and moved America into a new era. Change has always been a part of the natural economic landscape.

But there is no doubt that the acceleration of change and global competition are adding new challenges to the 21st century.

Just as the agriculture economy gave way to the industrial economy that built America’s great cities, the “information age” touted in business writing in the latter part of the 20th century is already morphing into a new economic picture, in which technological innovations are leading the way. As Daniel Pink, author of the fascinating book, A Whole New Mind, puts it, the skills most needed to keep pace with the current changes are “novelty, nuisance, and customization.”

Education – as a business and an institution – was dramatically transformed in the latter part of the 19th century as a way to bring coming-of-age workers into the new industrial jobs.

However, somewhere along the way, educators gained the notoriety of becoming adverse to change and the classrooms of 1900, indeed, did not change too much even decades later.

Of course, that’s not the case today.

With an infusion of technology in the 1990’s, school

15

leaders began the process of re-inventing education.

Even though the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 attempted to return schools to the old industrial model, political leaders are now beginning to listen to forwardthinking leaders and the future of public schooling looks brighter every year.

Certainly, more changes are in the wings. In fact, the rapid advance of technology pretty much assures that today’s classroom will be obsolete in only 10 years.

Fortunately, the Jacksonville school board is thinking ahead, planning for continuous change and initiating projects to make sure our students continue to stay on the cutting edge.

That is why the school system recently completed a new wing at Jacksonville High School, giving current and future seventh graders more room, giving our special needs students the skills they need for independence and planning technologically for the future.

“Each room is ‘over-wired’ for computers and electrical circuits, and each contains a wired-in SmartBoard and projector,” said Dr. Eric Mackey, superintendent of the Jacksonville City School System.

To learn more about new initiatives and how you can help the Jacksonville schools stay on the cutting edge, contact the superintendent’s office at emackey@jacksonville.k12.al.us.

The Jacksonville City Board of Education and Superintendent Eric Mackey say...

“Thank You” To Local Businesses...

...For the program ads you purchase, ...For all the financial support you give, ...For countless volunteer hours, ...For making our community a better place to live!

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April 2010

Barrett Body Shop

Celebrating 10 years of service to Calhoun County

Barrett Body Shop has been providing honest and quality collision repair services to residents of Calhoun County for the past ten years. They take great pride in the quality of the work they produce as well as the facilities they work from. Barrett Body Shop is conveniently located off Alexandria Jacksonville Highway on Cedar Springs Road just north of Weaver, halfway between Alexandria and Jacksonville.

They are well experienced in automotive collision repair and the staff stays up to date on the new trends and technologies through continuous education programs.

They work well with all insurance providers and are highly recommended by many; however, they always try to lookout for the best interest of the vehicle’s owner and assist them in any way possible throughout the entire procedure.

Having said that, they would like to remind all vehicle owners to choose your own repair facility that you are comfortable with and never let an insurance company force you to use their recommended shop. State law prohibits an insurance company from requiring a costumer to use a certain repair center. This decision is left up to the vehicle owner only.

It is the goal of Barrett Body Shop to completely satisfy all their customers by performing top quality

collision repair and restoring your vehicle to pre-accident condition or better and by treating the customer as they themselves would want to be treated. In addition, towing is available for all collision customers. Simply give them a call and let them know the location of the vehicle. They will take care of it, no problem!

Barrett Body Shop is a member of the Better Business Bureau, Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce, Jacksonville Exchange Club, and a strong supporter of many local churches, schools, and youth activities, sports, and recreation programs. They are founded on Christian values and take great pride in this community and the relationship with their customers.

The Jacksonville News

Bloomin’ Miracles keeps growing Bloomin’ Miracles, “the growingest business in Jacksonville,” continues to grow and thrive because growing is their business.

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.

(James 1:17) As the business name and this verse indicate, David and Victoria DuBose felt led into the retail nursery trade. For more than 11 years, Bloomin’ Miracles has continued to provide quality plants and service to local customers.

Over the last several years, Japanese Maples have become a specialty of the nursery.

Boasting 80 varieties, Bloomin’ Miracles has amassed one of the largest retail collections of these treasures in the southeast.

In addition to Japanese maples, you’ll find trees, shrubs, perennials, bonsai and aquatic plants.

A huge selection of oriental pot-

tery is in stock, from bonsai dishes to bathtub size pots. Also available are fountains from Al’s Garden Art of California.

“We’d like to thank our customers who have turned into friends over the years. Each year they have supported our business by returning to see us with joy and excitement, much like the flowers that bloom each spring,” said Victoria.

The nursery, located at 651 White’s Gap Road, is open year round, Monday through Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Take the opportunity to see how we have grown.

Remember that gardening grows hope, and hope is a wonderful thing. When only the best will do, think Bloomin’ Miracles. To reach them, call 435-2717.

Spring has sprung at

2819 Cedar Springs Road Jacksonville, AL 36265

820-7978

James 1:17

NURSERY & LANDSCAPING 651 WHITES GAP ROAD JACKSONVILLE, AL 36265 • 256.435.2717 HOURS: MON-SAT, 8AM-5PM

80 Varieties of Japanese Maples Hundreds of trees to choose from, Large selection of oriental pottery, from small Bonsai dishes to absolutely huge pots

Let us help you turn your yard into an oasis.

Check our our quality selection, prices & service.

Exclusive Dealer of Al’s Garden Art & Fountains of California

The Jacksonville News

Brick House Gym open 24/7

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

24 HOURS A DAY 0 H

Private Key Club for Men and Women

Workout Privately -orWith Selected Friends

K M

t y ted

GYM

OPEN 24 - 7

NEW THINGS COMING

O 2

•FREE WEIGHTS •MACHINES •CARDIO EQUIPMENT If you would like to set up an appointment, leave a voicemail or email us at: thebrickhousegym@hotmail.com

Protect:

435-4098

The Brick House Gym, one of Jacksonville’s original fitness and body building centers, opened its doors in May 1999.

Initially, it was located upstairs above The Quality Shoppe and provided local citizens with a place to workout, strip off those unwanted pounds, shape and tone flabby muscle mass or sculpt their body into that of a Greek god or goddess.

Following five years of successful operations and providing for all the health and fitness needs of the area population, owner Bridget Mathews relocated her oper­ations to 105 Ladiga St., in May 2002.

They are now a conscious society gym.

Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, The Brick House Gym never closes. It is a private key club that of­fers its members the unique oppor­tunity to get a full body workout regardless of weather, time or date.

You can work them into your schedule and keep your options open and flexible.

At The Brick House, just down from the Jacksonville Police Station on the south side of the square, they offer an even wider variety of Nautilus machines, cardio equipment and free weights to handle the influx of people in this area who have opted to ride the wave of a health Gym. They will always be there for you when your schedule permits time to work out or when the mood hits you to pump some iron.

Wo r k i n g out may not always be easy, but folks The Brick House Gym go out of their way to make it easier for you.

In addition to all of the excellent facilities, equipment and exercise options available to clients, the gym offers their customers control of the terms under which they utilize The Brick House Gym. With no long- term contracts to tie you down, you can come and go as you please, enjoying the freedom and confidence to deal with the unexpected nature of time and circumstance.

Unlike gyms that tie you down with weighty, restrictive contracts, The Brick House Gym memberships can be cancelled with just a 60-day notice.

For more information, to make an appointment or to just stop in and check out the facil­ities, call 4354098. The Brick House Gym, Jacksonville’s one-stop fitness shop, where you can sculpt the body you always dreamed of.

State Farm offers variety of services

1

Your car.

2

Your house.

3

Your bank account.

Save an average of $696* Protect yourself with America’s #1 car and home insurance company**.

Give me a call and start saving today.

Mike Douglas Ins Agcy Inc Mike Douglas, Agent Jacksonville, AL 36265 Bus: 256-435-6712 statefarm.com® *Average annual per househould savings based on a national 2009 survey of new policyholders who reported savings by switching to State Farm. **Based on A.M. Best written premium. State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Comany, State Farm Indemnity Company - Bloomington, IL; State Farm Fire and Casualty Company - Bloomington, IL; State Farm General Insurance Company - Bloomington, IL; State Farm Lloyds - Dallas, TX 1005002

17

April 2010

State Farm Insurance Company is the largest insurer of automobiles and homes in Alabama and the U.S. However, it is much more than a property and casualty company. State Farm offers over 90 insurance and financial service products as well, in­cluding life and health insurance, mutual funds for retirement planning and it is also a full-service bank.

State Farm has had a presence in Jacksonville for more than 45 years.

Mike Douglas took over the office in August of 2002 when his brother Rod decided to retire.

Mike has worked with State Farm for 30 years and was an agency field executive before coming to Jacksonville and returning to his roots as an agent.

“Our number one priority is to

provide service that exceeds our customers’ expectations,” said Mike.

His staff provides their clients with 24/7 service and a live person to talk to whenever they need to file a claim or make a change on their policy.

“We have excellent products and options for retirement planning, an excellent, well-trained staff and we really do care about you and your business,” said Mike.

The staff at State Farm has over 55 years of service in Jacksonville. They are: Holli Edwards, Vera Barber, Diana Reaves and Cala Doss. Lori Ray and Stephen Bradley are in the Piedmont office.

State Farm is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and by appointment on evenings and Saturdays.

Call them at 435-6712 or stop by their office on Pelham Road to see what they can do for you and your future.

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April 2010

The Jacksonville News

Pelham’s Creed: Work hard, dream big, be humble, be GALLANT

Farmers & Merchants Bank has served area since 1915

Farmers & Merchants Bank was established in Piedmont in 1915. The Jacksonville branch was opened in 1995, with the current building opening in 2000.

Farmers & Merchants is the oldest community bank in Calhoun County. The family that started the bank 95 years ago still is a major shareholder today. The President is the great grandchild of the original President, with 2 of his sisters also employed there. There are members of the next generation (5th generation) working there today.

The bank opened a branch in Anniston in 1988, Jacksonville in 1995, and Oxford in 1998.

The bank offers Consumer Loans, Business

Loans, Real Estate Loans including Home Equity Lines of Credit, Personal and Business Checking Accounts, Savings Accounts, CD’s, IRA’s and CDARS .

Farmers & Merchants Bank offers all the products, services and technology you would expect from any financial institution, with a level of personal service not seen at all financial institutions.

We develop relationships with our customers and become more than just a checking account or loan payment. We become a solution for any financial need. We offer all this based on sound banking principles that have kept us strong through financial times like the ones we are experiencing today.

Pelham’s bar was started by the co creator of Brother’s Bar Dan Nolen and his son Beau Nolen.

The inspiration for this local watering hole located off the square was from the “Gallant” Pelham the founder of the city of Jacksonville.

Pelham’s is dedicated to the memories of past friends and family members and to the present and indeed the future.

We are proud to provide a staff with a friendly smile, excellent service a warm and comfortable atmosphere.

Pelham’s has the oldest and largest pecan tree shading the patio and picnic tables.

While out in our “backyard” you can play beach volleyball, horseshoes, cornhole and of course enjoy your favorite beverage if you desire inside games tuck yourself in one our game room booths and enjoy a

game of billiards or watch your favorite team on our screens.

As soon as you walk in the front door and relax in the friendliest bar in Jacksonville you know it serves its people of the city, county, school and state.

Pelham’s is open Monday thru Saturday from 3 p.m. to 2 a.m. with daily specials, no cover charge and occasional live music and karaoke on Wednesday nights.

Our phone number is 256435-7455.

Pelham’s is a family owned with roots from the Piedmont, Jacksonville and Clay County area. Just look on our walls and you will know how special of a place Pelham’s is.

All we ask of people who work or play with us is to try and live by the Pelham’s Creed: WORK HARD DREAM BIG BE HUMBLE BE GALLANT.

GET ON YOUR SOAPBOX!

Letters are welcome on virtually any subject. Please keep letters short Œ250 words or less.

Letters are subject to editing for clarity, taste and length. Letters must be signed and include a telephone number for verification. Mail letters to:

The Jacksonville News PO Box 2285 Anniston, AL 36202 OR e-mail to jalred@jaxnews.com

Brother’s Pelhams est. 1976 Jacksonville, AL

Work hard, Be humble, Dream big, Be gallant.

The Jacksonville News

April 2010

Come Experience How Great Banking Locally Can Be! At Farmers & Merchants Bank, you will find a bank with small town values that you can trust, and bankers who are your friends and neighbors. We offer a full array of accounts and services with an added personal touch that lets you know your business is important to us.

Service • Solutions • Strength Piedmont • Anniston • Jacksonville • Oxford www.f-mbank.com

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April 2010

The Jacksonville News

Gift from Griffin’s is sure to please Since opening its doors in Jacksonville, Griffin’s Jewelers has been a centerpiece of the business community.

With something for everyone, Griffin’s Jewelers offers an extensive line of gold and sterling silver necklaces, diamond and engagement bands and rings, and precious stones at affordable prices.

Men, want to bring a smile to your lady’s face, make her heart flutter and strengthen the love she feels for you?

Let Griffin’s show you how.

Ladies, want a nice gold chain or luxurious watch for that special man in your life?

Griffin’s Jewelers can show you that when they say they have something for everyone and every taste, they truly mean it.

JSU business school one of nation’s best

Jacksonville State University’s College of Commerce and Business Administration is accredited by AACSB-International, the premier accrediting body for business programs. Jacksonville State University is also accredited by the The Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) to award the Master of Business Administration degree.

The primary mission of the College of Commerce and Business Administration is to provide high quality, innovative undergraduate and graduate management education, primarily for the citizens of Northeast Alabama. Educational programs are designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the dynamic, global environment of profit and nonprofit organizations.

Complementing the primary responsibility of excellence in teaching, faculty scholarship and service are also valued.

The faculty, staff, and administration of the College are committed to continuously improving the quality of academic programs, student support activities, and service to the local and regional community.

The College of Commerce and Business Administration has been included in the 2010 Princeton Review of “The Best 301 Business Schools.”

Current enrollment is composed of over 1,000 students from throughout Alabama, other states and foreign countries. The CCBA is a proud member of national honor societies including Beta Gamma Sigma, the academic honor society for AACSB International accredited Colleges of Business.

The distinguished faculty have been featured in national publications. CCBA distinguished graduates have also achieved success both nationally and internationally.

Course offerings are comprehensive, and include E-Commerce courses.

Hours to Complete: The MBA requires 30 hours to complete; however, students may have to take up to 24 hours of foundation courses, depending on their undergraduate major.

Primary Contact for Online Program Information: Dr. Louise Clark; E-mail: lclark@jsu.edu; Phone: (256) 782-5780.

You might wonder, what sets Griffin’s apart from other jewelry stores throughout Alabama?

“In addition to having one of the largest lines of fine jewelry and precious gems in the area, we try our best to treat everyone as we would like to be treated,” said Mary Stanford, the store’s manager. “Each person is important to us and we want them to know it.”

The store has an excellent staff of employees for whom the words dignity, respect and courtesy are not just found in a dictionary.

This impressive staff consists of: • Mary Stanford, who has been the store’s manager since 1995. An employee for 25 years, she is a registered National Bridal Consultant.

• Thomas Hua, a jewelry and watch repairman, who has served Griffin’s customers for over 14 years.

“Thomas is a special person,” said Stanford. “I really do believe the Lord sent him to us.”

For those who have witnessed his talents firsthand, this would be a hard point to argue.

• Jana LaFollette, sales associate, who joined the Griffin’s team three years ago; and So, if you are looking for something truly special and unique, from gold to silver to diamonds to crystal to china, stop by Griffin’s Jewelers for good prices, quality service and down-home and Southern charm — everything that has made them famous.

The look of silver . . . without the polishing.

Handcrafted Serving Pieces From Authur Court

812 Pelham Road South - Jacksonville - 256.435.4076

The Jacksonville News

April 2010

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April 2010

The Jacksonville News

Effina’s rolling out new spring, summer menu

We are rolling out our new spring and summer menu at Effina’s. Just as the season changes so will our menu, priding ourselves in using only the freshest locally grown produce, fruits, cheese and always-fresh fish and shrimp from the Gulf of Mexico.

Come by and try our pasta primavera, backed mac and cheese, Italian Gelato or Caprese salad they are sure to please even the pickiest pallet. After lunch or dinner, treat yourself to desert or try one of our delicious wines or an ice-cold beer to end a great meal.

Our mission is to serve fresh authentic recipes in a warm gracious way, every time you visit.

New Spring and Summer Menu Fresh ideas with local produce, fruits, cheeses and always fresh fish and shrimp from the Gulf of Mexico.

d

Stop by and try our

Exciting New Menu for Lunch & Dinner S O M E Q U I C K F AV O R I T E S

Stadium Expansion

Work continues on Jacksonville State University’s new dormitory located at Paul Snow Stadium. The dormitory will also have luxury boxes facing the stadium and will increace stadium seating capacity. It is expected to be completed by the beginning of Fall Semester 2010.

Pasta Primavera n Baked Macaroni & Cheese Italian Gelato n Caprese Salad n

501 Pelham Rd N Jacksonville, AL

Phone: 256.782.0008

The Jacksonville News

23

April 2010

Fort McClellan Credit Union is still one of nation’s best BauerFinancial, Inc., of Coral Gables, Florida is proud to announce that Fort McClellan Credit Union has earned its highest 5-Star Superior rating for financial strength and stability.

BauerFinancial, the Nation’s Bank and Credit Union Rating Firm, has been analyzing and reporting on the nation’s banking industry for over 25 years. The rating is based on the overall financial picture of the credit union, and a 5-star rating indicates that Fort McClellan Credit Union is one of the strongest in the nation.

This is the 73rd consecutive quarter that Fort McClellan Credit Union has earned this highest honor; only 7 percent of the nation’s credit unions can claim this distinction.

“The number of 5-Star rated credit unions has decreased some,” comments Karen L. Dorway, president of BauerFinancial,

“But that doesn’t mean they are extinct.

Fort McClellan Credit Union is an excellent example of traditional, conservative banking values. In this new era of ‘back to basics’ thinking, this is exactly what you should be looking for.”

Fort McClellan Credit Union was established in 1953 and has been serving the needs of its members for 56 years. It operates through four conveniently located offices in Anniston, Jacksonville, Ohatchee and Roanoke and can be found on the Internet at www.fortmcclellancu.org.

BauerFianacial, Inc., the nation’s leading independent bank and credit union rating and research firm has been reporting on and analyzing the performance of U.S. banks and credit unions since 1983. No institution pays for its ratings, nor can it be eluded. Consumers may obtain star-ratings by visiting www.bauerfinancial.com.

Screened Image moving to new location

Screened Image started as a small T-shirt printing business in Anniston, serving accounts in the Atlanta, Ga., area.

More than five years ago, the business moved to Jacksonville’s Public Square and began to build a local customer base.

As the years passed and the local business grew, the store needed to move to a larger location. In 2006, it opened its doors at 302 Mountain St., where store personnel could offer not only

the types of custom screen printing customers had come to know and love, but also a retail store where fans of Jacksonville State could walk in and purchase premade shirts.

Now, Screened Image is moving to O’Connell Street.

Phillip Pearson, owner of Screened Image, hopes to start a business park at that location with a restaurant and offices for professionals.

“I really want to focus on the

historical aspect of that area of town,” Pearson said.

“I am also hoping to expand what Screed Image does, like new brands and things like that.”

The bulk of Screened Image’s business is done with retail chains, which buy and then resell their shirts.

However, the company also caters to local businesses and organizations which request custom designs for their members or employees.

Screened Image is constantly updating its equipment and technology allowing their customers more inventory to choose from and quicker turn-around time.

Pearson’s staff continually

searches for and find new ways to provide the best quality product for your dollar. Visit them at their store or call them at 4357777 to see what they can create for you.

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24

April 2010

The Jacksonville News

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...with the help of a boat loan from Fort McClellan Credit Union.

Need to refinance? We can handle that too.

Call today to discuss our rates.

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