MADISON LIVING ERIC TERRELL • THE GUIDE • RICKY SHACK • CHAMBER CONNECTIONS • OUT & ABOUT
August 2020 / $4.95 madisonlivingmagazine.com
The White Brothers Eric Terrell
A family’s coaching tradition brings two brothers to lead rival teams
As Madison City Schools interim superintendent, he led the district through its most challenging time Madison Living 1
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Alison James John Few
MADISON CONTRIBUTORS MADISON Gregg Parker LIVING LIVING Bob Labbe
EDITORIAL Richard George EDITOR Rebekah Martin Joshua Berry JohnJames Few Alison Erin Coggins John Few Lee Marshall CONTRIBUTORS Mayor Paul Finley Bob Labbe CONTRIBUTORS MaryGregg LynneParker Wright Parker MaryGregg Anne Swanstrom Joshua Berry Bob Labbe Melanie Kolowski Richard George Mary Anne MARKETING Joshua Berry Swanstrom Donna Counts Erin LeeCoggins Marshall Lee Marshall Mary Lynne Wright ADMINISTRATIVE Richard George Mayor Paul Finley Sierra Jackson Mayor PaulWright Finley Mary Lynne French Salter Mary Anne Swanstrom MARKETING ••• Donna Counts MARKETING
CONTACT US Donna Counts
MANAGING EDITOR Madison Publications, LLC 7734 Madison Suite 115 FrenchBlvd. Salter ADMINISTRATIVE Huntsville, AL 35806 Sierra256-772-6677 Jackson Phone: Fax: 256-772-6655 French Salter CONTACT US madisonlivingmagazine.com Madison••• Publications, LLC Madison Living 7734 Madison Blvd. Suite 115 is published monthly Huntsville, AL 35806 CONTACT US by Madison Publications, LLC. Phone: 256-772-6677 A one-year subscription to Madison LLC Fax:Publications, 256-772-6655 Madison Living 7734 Madison Blvd. Suite 115 madisonlivingmagazine.com is $24.99 for 12AL issues per year. Huntsville, 35806 Single copies are available at Phone: 256-772-6677 Madison Living select locations throughout 256-772-6655 isFax: published monthly by the Madison area. madisonlivingmagazine.com Madison Publications, LLC. To advertise or to get A one-year to Madisonsubscription Living more copies, Madison Living is $24.99 is published monthly call12 256-772-6677. for issues per year. by Madison Publications, LLC. Single copies are to A one-year subscription Copyright 2020 available at select Madison Living by Madison Publications, LLC locations throughout is $24.99 for 12 issues per year. the Madison area. Single copies are available at 4 select Madison Livingthroughout locations Totheadvertise to get Madison or area. more copies, To advertise or to get call 256-772-6677. more copies, call 256-772-6677. Copyright 2020 by Madison Publications, Copyright 2020 LLC by Madison Publications, LLC 4 Madison Living
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and Dadeville, followed by a stop in Opelika before landing in north Alabama. She loves sharing the stories – and correcting the grammar of those stories – of the people and places that make north Alabama such a special place.
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CONTRIBUTORS John Few, Editor Alison James, copy editor
John Few hasearned been inher thebachelor’s field of newspaper journalism at and production for over 25 Alison James degree in journalism Auburn University, years. Johninhas served staffher writer, editor and publisher for a variety of publications graduating 2012. She as began career in community journalism in Alexander City in Alabama and Mississippi. He was transferred 2009 toinbegin coverage of loves and Dadeville, followed by a stop in Opelika beforeinlanding northhis Alabama. She Madison. covering thecorrecting City of Madison the past 10 years, John onplaces sharing theInstories – and the grammar of those stories – ofhas the reported people and several keynorth events, such assuch construction of the Hogan Family YMCA and James that make Alabama a special place. Clemens High School. Over the years, as Madison has grown, John has been there to cover the news that has made Madison home. Together John and his wife, Lori, have seven children, ranging from 15-23 years old.
Bob Labbe, contributing writer John Few, Editor
Bob Labbe is abeen lifelong resident the Huntsville community. He has beenfor in over the local John Few has in the field ofofnewspaper journalism and production 25 news media for served 48 years, multi-award-winning radio and print years. John has as astaff writer, editor and journalist publisher in fortelevision, a variety of publications media. He isand a member of theHe Huntsville-Madison Athletic Hallcoverage of Fameof and has in Alabama Mississippi. was transferred inCounty 2009 to begin his been nominated for both Press andJohn Alabama Music halls Madison. In covering the the CityAlabama of Madison theAssociation past 10 years, has reported onof fame. Bob hosted a radio program, Reelin’ The Years, 29 years WLRH-FM several keyhas events, such as construction of the in Hogan Familyfor YMCA andon James Public Radio. has also been local high school basketball for 28 years andtowas Clemens HighHe School. Over theayears, as Madison has grown,referee John has been there a highthe school referee 15 years. Bob is an avid sports fan his andwife, collector 45 cover newsfootball that has madefor Madison home. Together John and Lori,ofhave rpm records. He once boxed Muhammad Ali and was the reporter who asked the famed seven children, ranging from 15-23 years old. Paul Bear Bryant his last question as coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide.
Gregg Parker, contributing writer Bob Labbe, contributing writer
A graduate Mississippi StateofUniversity, Gregg Parker relocated to Madison with Bob Labbe isof a lifelong resident the Huntsville community. He has been in the local Intergraph Corporation 1990 with wife Brenda and son For 15 years news media for 48 years, ainmulti-award-winning journalist in Andy. television, radio andGregg print wrote for Spirit” “Limestone Spirit” sections in “The Times.” media. He “Madison is a member of theand Huntsville-Madison County Athletic HallHuntsville of Fame and has His articles havefor been in numerous chamber of Alabama commerce publications, been nominated bothpublished the Alabama Press Association and Music halls of “Southern Family Magazine” and “Life on the Gregg considers a privilege to fame. Bob has hosted a radio program, Reelin’ inWater.” The Years, for 29 years onitWLRH-FM document Madison’s coming age in hisschool hundreds of articles forfor “The Madison Public Radio. He has also been aoflocal high basketball referee 28 years and was andfootball “Madison Living” magazine. Gregg spoiling his rescue dachshund, aRecord” high school referee for 15 years. Bob is anenjoys avid sports fan and collector of 45 Francis Underwood binge-watching Netfl ixthe series; andvisiting Andythe andfamed wife rpm records. He once Parker; boxed Muhammad Ali and was reporter who asked Saadia, physicians, in Nashville, Tenn. Paul Bearboth Bryant his last question as coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide.
Erin Coggins, Gregg Parker, contributing contributing writer writer
AErin graduate of is Mississippi University, Gregg MadisonHigh with Coggins a scholasticState journalism adviser andParker historyrelocated teacher atto Sparkman Intergraph in 1990 withand wife Brenda and son Andy. ForHer 15 writing years Gregg School. SheCorporation is also a freelance writer public relations consultant. muse is wrote “Madison Spirit” and “Limestone “The Huntsville Times.” Worldfor War II war correspondent Ernie Pyle,Spirit” whom sections she fell ininlove with while a student His articles have been published in numerous chamberErin of commerce publications, studying communications at the University of Alabama. and her husband Jamie “Southern Family Magazine” and “Life on the Water.” Gregg considers it a privilege to reside in Madison. document Madison’s coming of age in his hundreds of articles for “The Madison Record” and “Madison Living” magazine. Gregg enjoys spoiling his rescue dachshund, Francis Underwood Parker; binge-watching Netflixseries;andvisitingAndyandwife Saadia, both physicians, in Nashville, Tenn.
Erin Coggins, writer Joshua Berry, contributing photographer Erin Coggins a scholastic journalism adviser and at Sparkman Joshua Berryishas a degree in biology and works fullhistory time asteacher an aquatic instructorHigh for the School. She is also aHe freelance writer public relations consultant. Herdistances. writing muse is City of Huntsville. is also an avidand runner, ranging from short to long When World War II war correspondent Ernie Pyle, whom he sheenjoys fell in trying love with while a the student he’s not spending time with his wife and daughter, to capture perfect studying theowner University of Alabama. Erin andhis heradvice husband Jamie momentcommunications on his camera. Asatthe of Everlong Photography, for beautiful reside in Madison. pictures is that nothing looks better than being confi dent in oneself.
Joshua Berry, photographer Joshua Berry has a degree in biology and works full time as an aquatic instructor for the City of Huntsville. He is also an avid runner, ranging from short to long distances. When he’s not spending time with his wife and daughter, he enjoys trying to capture the perfect moment on his camera. As the owner of Everlong Photography, his advice for beautiful pictures is that nothing looks better than being confi dent in oneself.
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PEOPLE
21 A look at Madison City Schools Assistant Superintendent Eric Terrell
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THE GUIDE
Every Saturday
8 a.m. - noon
MADISON CITY FARMERS MARKET Madison City Farmers Market is the area’s original local, producer-only farmers market, founded in 2007. Everything sold at the market is grown or crafted by local farmers and craftspeople. The vendors provide a wide selection of the freshest local veggies, fruits, cheese, eggs, meats, milk, herbs, honey, jams, relishes, home-baked goods, plants and flowers. The Madison City Farmers Market is Located at 1088 Hughes Road, Madison at Trinity Baptist Church. Check online for social distancing guideilines: www.madisoncityfarmersmarket.com
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THE GUIDE August 7 Starting at 3 p.m.
BACK TO SCHOOL BASH Show your community and school spirit when Toyota Field hosts booster clubs, marching bands, athletics teams, academic standouts and special school honorees from throughout the Tennessee Valley. Each participating group will have the opportunity to showcase a variety of clubs, activities and programs from their community. Admission is $5, and attendees are encouraged to bring donations for a school supply drive. Go to www.TrashPandasBaseball.com/ events for information and directions to the stadium.
THE GUIDE
August 8 Starting at 6:30 p.m.
NIGHT OF HOPE CONCERT: CROWDER, TAUREN WELLS AND SCOTT DAWSON Toyota Field welcomes in the “Night of Hope Tour” featuring music from four-time GRAMMY® Award-nominated Tauren Wells and 3-time GMA Dove Award Winner Crowder. The event also features a special Message of Hope from Scott Dawson. Go to www.TrashPandasBaseball.com/ events for ticket information and directions to the stadium.
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August 15
Starting at 5:30 p.m.
ON-FIELD MOVIE NIGHT & OVERNIGHT FAMILY CAMPOUT Watch a movie on the giant HD videoboard and enjoy a night under the stars at Toyota Field. Gates will open at 5:30 p.m. Showtime is set for 7 p.m. Overnight Admission is $22 and includes movie access, sleepover admission, popcorn and Pepsi voucher, commemorative patch and continental breakfast. non-overnight admission is $10 for adults, $8 for kids 12 & Under and kids 2 & under are admitted free. There is no charge for parking. Go to www. TrashPandasBaseball.com/events for information and directions to the stadium.
WHEN WE WENT TO THE MOON
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Experience the best of technology and exploration through the eyes of the engineers and in the boots of the astronauts who took us to the moon 50 years ago. Enjoy an Apollo 11 launch experience and explore artifacts and media memorabilia highlighting the turbulent nature of this pivotal era in our history.
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Madison Living 11
FROM THE OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
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The year 2020 is over halfway through and without question it is a year we will never
forget. Each day brings change and new challenges. Throughout this time our Madison
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Paul Finley Mayor City of Madison
team has continued to achieve multiple positive accomplishments that support our goals of controlled growth, economic development, infrastructure improvements and connectivity, communication and transparency, and blanket support for our Madison City schools. Looking back, there’s plenty making us proud to work for the Madison community.
Even through COVID-19, Madison remains economically strong. Sales tax is up 10%
from last year, and our General Fund has already collected 83% of budget sales taxes for the year. Toyota Field has hosted COVID-cautious events 26 of the 30 days in June. Imagine the excitement when Trash Panda baseball games are added to the mix next year. Tom Browns, Champy’s, Culver’s and Goodland Pour House have joined the ranks of favorites like Main Street Cafe and Old Black Bear giving us more options for dining out. Infrastructure projects take time to plan and approve, but we are now seeing crews hard at work to complete the Hughes Road and Sullivan Street widening projects to help ease traffic flow in congested areas. Madison also secured a $2,000,000 ALDOT grant to improve the Wall Triana/I-565 intersection which will improve our highest accident area. The Wall Triana multi-use path is complete, as well as the Palmer and Gooch sidewalk projects. Greenways extensions continue as our Public Works team is in-process of extending the Mill Creek Greenway. While we work internally to get the job done, our offices have continually shared project status updates through solid communication. Our residents are always engaged, keeping up with our current events through madisonal.gov and our other social media platforms. Our website is updated daily, and we offer easy access to report issues or discuss any Madison-related concerns. My office is open to anyone who would like to schedule a sit-down meeting, with at least two hours each two weeks designated for one on one interaction. Our School System has prevailed through this difficult time with teachers and staff going above and beyond during distance learning and planning for an unprecedented school year. The property tax referendum has allowed us to start both our new elementary and middle school projects, relieving crowded halls and classrooms. Council has implemented and is following a Growth Policy designed to manage growth and support our school system. The recent school bond refund of over $1,000,000 will also support needed infrastructure projects at the new schools. Newly appointed Superintendent Dr. Ed Nichols, Assistant Superintendent Eric Terrell, and Board President Tim Holtcamp have been a pleasure to work with while we navigate 2020. This update only touches the surface of a comprehensive list of achievements our team has accomplished together for our community. I am so proud to serve as your Mayor and work with our City Council and this fantastic team of employees who are all extremely dedicated to Madison’s success. Wishing our community good health and happiness through the remainder of the year! -Mayor Paul Finley
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SCHOOL&SPORTS
THE WHITE BROTHERS A family’s coaching tradition brings two brothers to lead rival high school football teams STORY BY BOB LABBE PHOTOS BY JOSHUA BERRY
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Laron White
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The White brothers, Laron and Kelvis, are a complete scope of personalities - passionate, loving, respectful and family oriented - but most of all, they are competitive. “We both want to win, but I always want to beat my big brother and it’s been that way since we were growing up,” said Kelvis, 42, of his four-year older brother. Laron is entering his fourth season as head coach of the Sparkman Senators in 2020 while Kelvis has taken the similar position in his first season for rival Bob Jones. The two schools have been heated rivals as long as locals can remember and with the fact this year’s battle scheduled for October 2 will pit the brothers head-to-head, look out for a family gathering. “The last and only time we met in a game was in 2016 when I was head coach at Tanner and Kelvis was at Mae Jemison, some of our family sat on the home team side, while others switched sides at halftime,” said Laron who lost to his younger in that lone meeting. The sons of Louis and Mollie White were born in Colbert County Hospital and grew up in the small community along highway 20 in Courtland where the west-east train cuts through town. Their father won four state titles during his 1975-1998 tenure as head coach of the Class 1A Chiefs. He is a member of the Alabama Hall of Fame and saw both of his
sons play for him, play in college and become head coaches in their own rights. Hearing the thunderous train at all hours of the day and night along with the sounds of Big Nance Creek, which was named after a Cherokee chief, also makes it treks through the small Lawrence County town, Laron and Kelvis were your typical young lads playing with friends and doing set chores at their home located on highway 33 on the outskirts of town among the country side and plentiful woods. They also had the honor of being the sons of a legendary coach of the local team where they accompanied him on most trips and hung out like shadows at both practices and games. Their experiences easily influenced them to follow in their father’s footsteps while their mother was also an educator at the local school teaching first grade. Kelvis said he wanted to be part of what his father was doing with football and always wanted to grow up to be a member of the Courtland Chiefs. “My father spent a lot of time with his players and heavily figured into molding their lives, but he didn’t put pressure on us although we spent a lot of time with him in the film room, cleaning up the field house and taking those bus rides with the teams,” said Kelvis. Both brothers played heavily in the success of the teams
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at Courtland and signed with the Alabama Crimson Tide as lineman. Laron was head coach at Tanner High for 14 seasons where his teams made the state playoffs each year while winning two state titles and posted a record of 148-30. At Sparkman he is 19-13. Kelvis was head coach at Dothan High for eight years and Huntsville’s Mae Jemison for four seasons. His overall coaching record is 64-65. The White brothers spend many hours together with their families as Laron and his wife, Kathy, have three sons, including senior Karon who has committed to sign with Appalachian State. Kelvis and his wife, Chris, have two children. Family gatherings are large and, yes, the subject of football comes up in conversation on many occasions. “We bounce ideas off each other as we’re always trying to find a way to be successful so we share ideas as we mostly talk football culture,” said Kelvis. “Our families are close. For many years Kelvis and I didn’t see each other except during the Christmas holiday,” said Laron. “Christmas is always a big time for our large family as we usually have four days straight of celebration.” As the older brother, Laron seemed to always have his younger brother hanging around, but each of them had their own group of friends due to the difference in age. Kelvis was more outgoing and became a fan of Auburn University. When it was time for Kelvis to choose a college, his mother committed for him to join Laron 360044-1
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Kelvis White
Madison Living 17
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at Alabama. “Yes, I became a converted Alabama fan,” admitted Kelvis. Once on campus Kelvis was a freshman and Laron a senior for the Crimson Tide. The one year in Tuscaloosa was the only time they were officially on the same team. It’s not uncommon to see the brothers attending their brother’s children’s sporting events and their wives are good friends besides being sisters-in-law. Growing up with parents who were prominent among the Courtland community, walking a fine line was always important for both Laron and Kelvis. The expectations were high and with success plentiful in the White home, the brothers became very competitive in their quests as head coaches and that spirit continues in 2020 and will come to a heighten frenzy this fall when the Bob Jones Patriots host the Sparkman Senators in what will be a heated rival contest between two schools- and two brothers. “We’re brothers here to serve our players and I’m glad to do this alongside him,” said Laron. “We beat Bob Jones last year for the first time in a decade and the game should be a showcase type contest this season. I know Kelvis’ team will be ready. I’m proud of him.”
#BuildByBreland
BrelandHomes.com Louis White won four state football championships as the Courtland High School coach and had a 181-83 record in 24 seasons. His two sons, Laron and Kelvis, now carry on that family coaching tradition.
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....................... AROUND TOWN .......................
Over the Edge for Kids to Love
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Lee Marshall
Founder / CEO Kids to Love Foundation
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How far would you go to help a child living in foster care? How about 160 feet down the side of a building? The 3rd Annual Kids to Love Over the Edge event will descend on the Regions Center in downtown Huntsville September 18-19th. Our “Edgers” will rappel the side of Regions to raise money to support our programs and services. It sounds extreme but is tame compared to the trauma and disruptions foster children endure daily. This year, our kids we serve will share the
spotlight with other VIPs: essential workers. “Celebrating Essentials” is our theme as we extend the adventure to all of those on the front lines in the fight against COVID-19. This will once again be a can’t miss event, made possible by our Summit sponsor, Hightower Twickenham. Whether you accept the challenge to go Over the Edge or just want to watch safely from the sidewalk we hope you’ll make plans to be there! To sign up or support a rappeller, visit www. kidstolove.org
PEOPLE
ERIC TERRELL A look at the man who stepped up and led Madison City Schools through the toughest challenge the school district has yet to face STORY BY BOB LABBE PHOTOS BY JOSHUA BERRY
Madison Living 21
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The challenges for all school dis- age. On the verge of entering his 17th tricts in Alabama and across the nation year in education, the native of Hamseemed almost surreal as the impact of ilton, Ala. has been a special educaCOVID-19 became all too real. School tion teacher, assistant athletic coach, a campuses shut down and educators head coach, athletic director, assistant found new ways to stay connected with principal, assistant superintendent and interim superintendent all within the their students. The man leading the Madison City Madison City Schools System. Despite all of his experiences he reSchools District did not have a lot of experience at being the system’s super- mains goal driven - “I plan to be a lifer intendent. In fact, he had only been on in education and if the Good Lord’s the job a few days before the schools willing, I would step into the superintook their hardest hit from the crisis. tendent position full-time.” Terrell is However, his leadership as the interim an easy-going, quiet leader as he undersuperintendent during the first months stands his place in his career and how of the coronavirus pandemic, steered to deal with others, especially the young the school district in the right direction students. Growing up in the small town of and brought city and school leaders together. For that, Eric Terell has earned Hamilton located in Marion County with a population of less than 10,000, the admiration of a grateful city. At age 39, Eric Terrell has experi- he played recreational sports and spent enced more than most at that young a lot of time at the homes of his grand-
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parents where he would hunt, fish and watch TV shows such as Andy Griffith and Dukes of Hazzard. His athletic prowess included baseball, basketball, football and track and his desire to lead others led him to become an educator and athletics coach. “I was attending school to become an electrical engineer as I was always interested in electronics helping others with their computers and installing electronics in their cars,” said Terrell. “I took up those types of things as a hobby and not a career.” While attending Alabama A&M he came across the opportunity to coach a youth league team and soon fell in love with the idea of helping the youth around him. After three years into the degree program in electrical engineering, he suddenly switched gears and completed his degree in education. He
2nd Anniversa! ry at this location
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Eric Terrell leads a strategy meeting with Madison City Schools administrators in early March at the outset of the COVID-19 crisis in Alabama. Photo by John Peck
24 Madison Living
added, “I felt I could make a difference, motivate and guide others.” Upon graduating from Alabama A&M in 2004 he took his first teaching assignment in special education and as a coach at Discovery Middle School. Soon afterwards, he moved across Madison to Liberty Middle School where he continued teaching special education and became head coach of both the football and basketball programs. From 2006-2012 he worked at Bob Jones High in special education along with becoming the head coach of the freshman football team and assistant head coach of the varsity team. During his tenure there he also became assistant principal. Terrell assisted the opening of James Clemens High in 2012 as assistant principal and athletic director and remained there until he took a position within the Madison City Schools administration when he was named assistant superintendent in 2017 and, upon the retirement of superintendent Robby Parker earlier in 2020, was named interim superintendent until the organization hired a new person to handle the position of superintendent. “It just wasn’t my time to have that position,” said Terrell of not being named superintendent. Terrell and his wife of 15 years, LaTerra, have two daughters, 11-year old Kelsey and eight-year old Kylee. LaTerra works on Redstone Arsenal supporting the U.S. Government. For Terrell, being a part of the school administration was never on his radar seeing himself as a teacher and coach. After all, his mentor was a special education teacher and coach at Hamilton High by the name of Blaine Hathcock who gave the young Terrell guidance in ways many could never think of. “He told me to be a positive leader by having my face shaved, always dress well, being clean and carry myself with a positive attitude,” said Terrell. “I still contact him on occasions.” Terrell chose special education because, “I didn’t want those students to stay behind the eight ball in life and wanted to give them hope and show them what’s out there in life,” said Ter-
During the Bob Jones and James Clemens graduation ceremonies, Eric Terrell encouraged the Class of 2020 not to let circumstances hold them back to achieving their dreams. Photo by John Few
rell. “I loved the aspect of making a difference.” He was hand selected to take the reins of the teams at Liberty as both programs were failing. At Bob Jones, his freshman football team sort of set the bar for the rest of the program as his team went undefeated. Terrell said there was more to that group of athletes than just winning. He added, “That was a very special group of athletes. They loved to practice and just enjoyed the athletics they were a part of.” Once Terrell chose to leave the frontlines of student teaching and join the other team in administration he did notice he missed something. “Yeah, I did, as I see the lights on Friday nights I get that urge to coach again. Even now when I’m attending games for both Bob Jones and James Clemens I’m always on the sidelines near the action. Watching the players and coaches I always have that itch to coach.” Terrell received his administration degree from Grand Canyon University in 2009 and he looks forward to someday using that education along with all of the experience he has gathered over the years to become a superintendent for a school system. He will use the knowledge he has gathered from his parents, grandparents, two siblings, teachers and coaches to be successful in whatever position he secures, but two things will be for certain- his knowledge will always be far beyond his age and the desire to coach will be everlasting.
Madison Living 25
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Eric Terrell was presented a city coin in June by Madison Mayor Paul Finley for his leadership as interim superintendent during the COVID-19 crisis. Photo by John Peck
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ON THE GRILL
SMOKIN’ GOOD AT THE RICKY SHACK Ideas from the RICKY SHACK • What Do I Really Need? STORY BY RICHARD GEORGE PHOTOS BY JOSHUA BERRY
Madison Living 27
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The BGE comes in many different sizes, I prefer a What cooking equipment do you have and really Medium for my family. The 15” grilling surface easuse? What is your favorite BBQ grill/tool/seasoning/ ily handles the 6 adults and 2 grandkids in my famsauce? ily. BGE now has a 2XL with a 29” cooking surface These questions are asked quite frequently. What to accommodate 18 to 20 steaks! They are easy to prompted me to write a “What Do I Really Need” artistart with an electric charcoal starter or a natural cle for Madison Living Magazine was a telephone call SpeediLight charcoal starter, but NEVER LIGHTER from a friend in South Carolina asking me to come FLUID. Lump charcoal made of hickory and oak share some cooking secrets from the Ricky Shack provides a stable and long-lasting fire. Air flow conwith him and his wife. Now, my wife and I are eagerly trollers on top and bottom allow you to accurately packing some tools, cookbooks and our n95 masks. control temperatures between 150 degrees and 750 Maybe this article will help light a fire for your backdegrees. The insulated ceramic construction retains yard cookouts. Richard George heat and moisture so that foods don’t dry out. The As with any hobby, there are favorite tools and @ricky_shack food tastes better and is more tender because the equipment. I am an “Egger” (biggreenegg.com) and a BBQ enthusiast. The Big Green Egg (BGE) is an extremely versa- juices and flavors stay locked inside. Clean-up is easy. The retile cooking outdoor cooker, an all-in-one grill, roaster, smoker, sidual heat burns any grease buildup off of the interior surfaces baker and searer. It heats up and is ready to cook in minutes, – like a self-cleaning oven. No chemical cleaners are needed. will not rust, jam or wear out. It even has a lifetime warranty. Here are a dozen items I have found most beneficial: The original concept for an egg-shaped cooker took root in Asia 1. ConvEGGtor. This is a ceramic place setter used primarily for approximately 3000 years ago. US Servicemen were exposed to this during WWII. My Dad was a part of that Greatest Genera- indirect cooking. It provides a barrier between the fire and the tion serving in the European and Mediterranean Theaters as well food, as well as allowing the heat to radiate within the dome. The as Korea. Dad, respectfully and affectionately referred to as “The convEGGtor can be used legs up for convection or legs down for Major” by my friends, cooked on several different type grills and baking. 2. ThermoPro. An instant read, digital probe that is a fast, acchallenged me often to experiment with various foods and differcurate and essential means of checking the internal temperature ent types of grills.
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The Ricky Shack
(IT) of foods. The IT is the most important guide to safety and is more important than cooking by time. 3. Dual Probe Digital Thermometer. Dual probes make it easy to monitor the grill temperature as well as the IT of the food item. Some units offer 4-6 probes as well as alarms to alert you when you have reached the desired IT or if the grill has deviated from your set temperature range. 4. Planks: Food Grade Planks offer an additional, fragrant flavor to food. My favorite is Cedar for Salmon. Simply soak the plank(s) in water for at least 30 minutes. Place the plank on the hot grill for approximately 15 minutes to char the wood, flip it for another 15 minutes to char and burn any splinters off of this side, flip again and add food. When you are finished cooking, wash the plank well with soap and water. Allow to dry and store for additional cooks. There are several other food grade planks available, such as Alder, Cherry, Hickory and Red Oak. 5. Temperature Guides: There are various guides available on Pinterest and
other sites for the fire temperatures, suggested minimum IT and Rare/Medium/ Well temperature ranges. I like the sturdy, all-weather, magnetized guide from amazingribs.com. It is organized according to foods and easy to read. 6. Wood Chunks: An easy way to add additional smoky flavor to foods is with wood chunks. The chunks burn slower than chips and produce a longer more-gentle smoke. There is no need to soak chunks. My favorites are pecan and cherry because they give a mild, sweet, smoky flavor. Some people prefer the stronger, smokier hickory and mesquite. Try apple or peach for a sweet, fruity smoke on turkey. 7. Gloves: Heat resistant gloves are critical for protection, as you are working with 150º to 750º heat. Some cooks like a silicon or synthetic material that withstands high heat, offers good dexterity and allows repeated use, while others prefer welder’s gloves. 8. Foil: Heavy Duty Aluminum Foil is utilized to cover foods after removing from the grill and allowing the food to rest (re-
distribute natural juices) and finish cooking. Many cooks use a double layer of heavy-duty foil to wrap their ribs in the middle phase of the 3-2-1 cooking method (3 hours smoking on grill, wrapped tightly then cooked for 2 more hours, then unwrapped and placed back on grill for 1 more hour.) When smoking a pork butt or beef brisket, double layers of heavy-duty foil are used to help push through the stall (approx. 165 degrees) on the way to your desired doneness. Foil keeps the meat moist, helps with tenderizing the meat and speeds up the cooking time. 9. Tongs: Stainless steel, heavy duty tongs, 9” to 12” length, with a pull ring locking mechanism make it easy to handle all types of meats easily and safely. Silicon tips may be more colorful, and easy to clean, but you lose the ability to tightly grasp some foods. 10. Grill Brush: Use a bristle free brush and a scraper before and immediately after each cook to remove any food articles or leftover seasonings and sauces. It helps to
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lightly wipe down the grill with vegetable oil prior to cooking to prevent foods from sticking to the grill. 11. Light: A BBQ light that is water proof, melt proof and adjustable enables you to better see your foods up close. Head lamps and overhead deck lighting just doesn’t seem to work very well. Many lights offer a magnetic base and adjustable arm or can be mounted directly to your lid handle for direct lighting. 12. Miscellaneous. There are many more tools (or as my wife says: toys) available to enjoy and assist you in your cooking experience, e.g., kabob skewers, beerbutt chicken roaster, drum stick rack, rib rack, GrillGrate, cast iron griddle, cast iron skillets, Dutch oven, pizza stone and peel, large food platters, aluminum water trays, drip pans, EGGspander (double deck grill), Wi-Fi controllers, sharp knives. There are more tools than one can count or store efficiently. If I admitted to owning all of these items, you might think that I am a lunatic or some type of pyro-fanatic. And there is no doubt more than are included here.
• Everglades All Purpose • BGE Pecan Seasoning • Emeril’s Original Essence • Bad Byron’s Butt Rub • Hardin’s Seasoning • Three Little Pigs Touch of Cherry Rub • Lemon Pepper • Tony Chachere’s Creole Seasoning The Marinades or wet sauces in my reSeasonings and Sauces frigerator include: The two primary, critical and inexpen• Allegro Original Marinade sive seasonings are Kosher Salt and freshly • Moore’s Original Marinade ground Black Pepper. Start with these and • Sweet Baby Ray’s Sauce then experiment with adding more flavors, • Blues Hogg Sauce e.g., garlic, onion, paprika, cayenne pep• Stubb’s Original Sauce per, dill, rosemary, etc. There are literally • Wicker’s Original thousands of recipes for different palates. • Big Bob Gibson White Sauce The staple commercial seasonings in my • Betty’s Pear Preserves’ juice BBQ cabinet include: You can experiment with cookbooks
and Pinterest recipes, but start simple. A couple of my favorite, older books are the Southern Living Ultimate Book of BBQ, the Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) Cookbook and the Big Green Egg Cookbooks. My friend Chris Lilly, six-time world champion Pitmaster, from Big Bob Gibson’s BBQ in Decatur AL has two excellent cookbooks. I like Big Bob Gibson’s BBQ Book: Recipes and Secrets from a Legendary Barbeque Joint, and Fire and Smoke: A Pitmaster’s Secrets. Chris has numerous You Tube videos. Also, Aaron Franklin, Franklin BBQ of Austin TX is an influential Pitmaster, author of another one of my favorite cookbooks - Franklin Barbeque: A MeatSmoking Manifesto, and a recipient of the James Beard Foundation for Best Chef: Southwest in 2015 award. Aaron teaches a Masterclass on Teaching Texas-Style BBQ. He has many You Tube videos. You might also enjoy You Tube videos by The BBQ Pit Boys, How To BBQ Right, Hey Grill Hey, BBQ My Way, Myron Mixon and Tuffy Stone. MARINATE • INJECT • RUB SMOKE • SAUCE • ENJOY! The most important thing is to ENJOY the experience. Please note that there has been no monetary compensation provided by any of the suppliers or products for this article. Follow me on Twitter @ricky_shack
30 Madison Living
CONNECTIONS
MASK ON MADISON Please be safe, stay healthy, be kind and remember, we are all in this together!
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MADISON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CONNECTIONS
W
Please be safe, stay healthy, be kind and remember, we are While we are still living in uncertain times and as the number of COVID cases continue to rise, it is extremely important all in this together! #MasksonMadison #MadisonALStrong that we all work together to help prevent the spread of COMadison Chamber Staff VID-19 (Coronavirus). On Tuesday, July 7 at 5 p.m., the State issued a health order at the request of the Madison County Health Department, requiring everyone to wear a mask or face covering when out in public. A face covering is defined as a device to cover the nose and mouth of a person to impede the spread of saliva or other fluids during speaking, coughing, sneezing, or other intentional or involuntary action. Medicalgrade masks are not required. Coverings may be made from scarves, bandanas, or other fabrics. All businesses and venues open to the public must provide a notice stating that face coverings are required inside the establishment and signage is required at all public entrances. The Alabama Department of Public Health advises these actions to prevent the spread of COVID-19: • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds • Social distance by staying 6 feet away from others • Avoid people who are sick • Stay home if you can; work remotely if possible • Cover your mouth and nose with a face covering when around others • Cover coughs and sneezes • Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces • Monitor your health Visit the www.alabamapublichealth.gov or the Chamber website at www.madisonalchamber.com for more info about the requirements/exceptions of wearing face coverings. 103 SPENRYN DR., MADISON, ALABAMA 35758
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PHONE 256-325-8317
MADISON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CONNECTIONS
◀ Alcova Mortgage Congratulations to Louvina Gross on being the Alcova Mortgage 2020 Hometown Hero Award Recipient.
Dermatology Specialist of Alabama-Madison ▶ Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting for MCC Member Dermatology Specialist of Alabama-Madison
◀ Midtown Elementary Groundbreaking & Ribbon Cutting for the New Midtown Elementary School
W W W. M A D I S O N A LC H A M B E R . CO M
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W W W. FAC E B O O K . CO M / M A D I S O N C H A M B E R
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MADISON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CONNECTIONS
◀ Crumbl Cookies Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting for MCC Member Crumbl Cookies
Joint Fueling Station▶ Ribbon Cutting for the City of Madison New Joint Fueling Station
34 Madison Living
....................... YMCA .......................
The Y can help with child care
...
Mary Anne Swanstrom Director of Communications Hogan Family YMCA
T
The year 2020 might seem like the year of endless summer with schools letting out in March due to efforts to put a lid on the spread of COVID-19. But school is expected to be in session this fall, and parents who are returning to the workplace are looking for solutions for child care when the school day ends. The Y can help! When the school day ends, more than 148,000 Alabama children are left alone and unsupervised an average of three hours a day, according to a 2014 study by Afterschool Alliance. Because children need opportunities to engage in safe, meaningful activities while out of school, Hogan Family YMCA offers quality afterschool programming. The YMCA Afterschool Program provides learning enrichment through STEM, creative arts, physical education and nutrition, and kids receive help with homework. This additional support system helps children achieve
and reach their full potential. As a leading nonprofit committed to youth development and a pioneer in afterschool programs, the Y believes guidance and encouragement through positive role models provide the best chance for youth to succeed in school and life. The YMCA has been recognized as a national leader in operating safe and healthy environments for children in their care as Ys across the nation pivoted to offer child care to essential workers during the early days of the coronavirus crisis. The Hogan Family YMCA has implemented extensive protocols to keep families safe while children are in the Y. Fee assistance is available to those who may need it to ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. For more information about the Hogan Y’s Afterschool Program, contact Ty Harris at Ty.Harris@ymcahuntsville.org or 256.705.9622 ext. 309.
Madison Living 35
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36 Madison Living
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....................... MADISON HOSPITAL .......................
“There is always enough time to do the right thing”
...
Mary Lynne Wright
J
- Jim Bolte
Jim Bolte, Madison Hospital’s newest board member, has a personal motto: “there is always enough time to do the right thing.” Reading this, you quickly understand why Jim is a perfect fit to join our Madison Hospital Board of Directors. Having retired as Toyota Plant President, Jim recently completed five full marathons and brings non-stop energy, insight and leadership with him as our newest volunteer member. Jim’s business acumen and knowledge of Madison since moving here from Kentucky in 2006 with his wife, Tami, allow for insights that will help Madison Hospital meet
the needs of our residents. Jim told me, “In my short time as a board member, I’ve been impressed with the entire team. Actually, I’ve recently used the hospital services and can attest to the efficient, professional, and compassionate attitudes of the entire team.” Each of my board members is a volunteer and a strong community leader. I’m thankful for their passion that contributes to shaping our strategies at Madison Hospital. I’d like to highlight each of these outstanding Madison community members in my upcoming column.
President Madison Hospital
Madison Living Living 37 37 Madison
OUT&ABOUT FUN WITH THE ROCKET CITY TRASH PANDAS AT TOYOTA FIELD Rocket City Trash Pandas hosted a few events at Toyota Field during the month of July. They opened the month with a patriotic block party and 4th of July Extravaganza. They later held a movie night with the showing of “Field of Dreams”, and hosted a Star Wars themed block party on July 17. They also hosted their first wedding on Toyota Field. Below are some photos from those events. Photos By Melanie Kolowski and Lucas Dolengowski
The wedding of Louis Whitlow and Tiffany Jordan at Toyota Field 38 Madison Living
www.facebook.com/MelanieKolowskiPhotography
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The Art of Beauty B When you are happy about your appearance, you feel more confident. Dr. Tony Weaver’s artistic ability reframes his patients’ lives through natural-looking enhancements that are timeless. By creating aesthetic balance, Dr. Weaver achieves life-improving results. Accepting adult and pediatric patients at Huntsville Hospital and Madison Hospital.
hhplasticsurgery.org 40 Madison Living
360040-1
Call (256) 265-6851 to reserve your appointment.
