MADISON LIVING THE GUIDE • AROUND TOWN • CHAMBER CONNECTIONS • OUT & ABOUT • RICKY SHACK
August 2021 / $4.95 madisonlivingmagazine.com
A Natural Storyteller
A little bit of daydreaming led Cynthia Simmons to the creation of her first character, The Lonely Bean
Back to Normal
Football is gearing up for a hard-hitting, fun season
Chief Johnny Gandy
Madison’s new Chief of Police considers himself “blessed” to have been selected to lead Madison’s Police Department
ALSO INSIDE From the Mayor Around Town with Lee Marshall Out & About Madison Hospital Midtown Elementary The Ricky Shack Upcoming events and much more Madison Living 1
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Madison Living 3
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 Erin Coggins Bob Labbe Joshua Berry Richard George Erica DeSpain MARKETING Joshua Berry MaryCounts Anne Donna Erin Coggins Swanstrom Lee Marshall Lee Marshall ADMINISTRATIVE Mayor Paul Finley Mary Lynne Wright Sierra Jackson Richard George Mary Lynne Wright French Salter Mayor Finley Mary AnnePaul Swanstrom
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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 in thebachelor’s eld of newspaper journalism at and production for over 25 Alison James her 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 theIn stories – and the grammar of those stories – ofhas the reported people and several key events, such as construction of the Hogan Family YMCA and James that make north Alabama such 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.
John Few, contributing writer Bob Labbe, contributing writer
Bob Labbe is abeen lifelong resident the Huntsville community. He has beenfor innearly the local John Few has in the eld ofofnewspaper journalism and production 25 news media for served 48 years, journalistTimes, in television, radio and print years. John has as a multi-award-winning staff writer for The Demopolis the daily newspaper media. is a member of thefor Huntsville-Madison County HallGazette. of FameHe and has in West He Alabama, and editor the weekly newspaper theAthletic Black Belt was been nominated for to both the his Alabama Press Association Alabama of transferred in 2009 begin coverage of Madison. Inand covering the Music City ofhalls Madison fame. Bob hosted radio program, The Years,such for 29 on WLRH-FM the past 10 has years, Johna has reported onReelin’ severalinkey events, asyears construction of the Public Family Radio. He has also a local highHigh school basketball for 28 years andhas was Hogan YMCA and been James Clemens School. Overreferee the years, as Madison a high school football 15 years. Bob is anhas avidmade sportsMadison fan and home. collector of 45 grown, John has been referee there tofor cover the news that Together rpm records. He once boxed Ali and was from the reporter who asked John and his wife, Lori, haveMuhammad seven children, ranging 15-23 years old. the famed Paul Bear Bryant his last question as coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide.
Gregg Parker, contributing writer Bob Labbe, contributing writer
A graduate Mississippi State Gregg Parker relocated to Madison with Bob Labbe isof a lifelong resident ofUniversity, the Huntsville community. He has been in the local Intergraph Corporation 1990 with wife Brenda and son For radio 15 years news media for 48 years, ainmulti-award-winning journalist in Andy. television, 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 high in hisschool hundreds of articles forfor “The Madison Public Radio. He has also been aoflocal basketball referee 28 years and was andfootball “Madison Living” magazine. Gregg spoiling his collector rescue dachshund, aRecord” high school referee for 15 years. Bob is an enjoys avid sports fan and of 45 rpm Francis He Underwood Parker; binge-watching Net series;and andwife records. once boxed Muhammad Ali and was theix reporter whovisiting asked Andy the famed Paul Saadia, bothhis physicians, in Nashville, Bear Bryant last question as coach ofTenn. the Alabama Crimson Tide.
Erin Coggins, Gregg Parker, contributing contributing writer
AErin graduate of is Mississippi University, Gregg Madison High with Coggins a scholasticState journalism adviser andParker historyrelocated teacher attoSparkman Intergraph in 1990 withand wifepublic Brenda and son Andy. ForHer 15 years Gregg writer relations consultant. writing muse is School. SheCorporation is also a freelance 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 reside in Madison. to 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 Net ix series; and visiting Andy and wife Saadia, both physicians, in Nashville, Tenn.
Erin Coggins, writer Joshua Berry, contributing photographer
Erin Coggins a scholastic journalism adviser and teacher at Sparkman High Joshua Berryishas a degree in biology and works fullhistory time as an aquatic instructor 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 con 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 con dent in oneself.
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15 A NATURAL STORYTELLER A little bit of daydreaming in her college accounting class led Cynthia Simmons to the creation of her first character, The Lonely Bean. 27 MEET CHIEF JOHNNY GANDY Madison’s new Chief of Police considers himself “blessed” to have been selected to lead Madison’s Police Department
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33 BACK TO NORMAL The camaraderie, tailgating, school spirit and the grand ole sport of football will soon return
27 IN EVERY ISSUE
7 The Guide 23 From The Mayor 24 Shopping 32 Around Town 38 Madison Hospital 39 Out & About 46 Madison City Schools 50 The Ricky Shack 53 MCC Connections
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THE GUIDE
Let There Be Music • Old Black Bear Brewery • Downtown Madison • Thursday nights starting at 6 p.m. MVP and Madison Arts Council are collaborating to support the arts in Madison and to raise funds to help construction of a performance pavilion in Home Place Park, the new outdoor amphitheater. The ”Let There Be Music” concerts will be presented through Sept. at 6 p.m. on Old Black Bear’s patio in downtown Madison, 212 Main St. The scheduled bands for August include: August 5: Ben Luthy Band, August 12: Jeff Tucker, August 19: Winslow Davis, and August 26: Rob and the Red Beards.
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Madison City Farmers Market Madison City Farmers Market, open every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon, is the area’s original local, producer-only farmers market, founded in 2007. Everything sold at the market is grown or crafted by local farmers and craftspeople. The vendors provide a wide selection of the freshest local veggies, fruits, cheese, eggs, meats, milk, herbs, honey, jams, relishes, home-baked goods, plants and flowers. The Madison City Farmers Market is Located at 1088 Hughes Road, Madison at Trinity Baptist Church. Check online for more information and updates: www.madisoncityfarmersmarket.com
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THE GUIDE
Nigh Blooms • ALL MONTH • Huntsville Botanical Garden • www.hsvbg.org Enter Night Blooms: a botanical dreamscape where flowers glow from within, birds and insects flit across the night sky, and light transforms the landscape into a new world, waiting to be explored! Night Blooms will lead you on a one-mile walking journey through the Garden in the evening. As you make your way through the Garden, you will discover vignettes of botanical lanterns integrated into the natural surroundings. From poppies and orchids to turtles and spiders, Night Blooms will show you just how extraordinary a walk through the Garden can be. Come see the Garden in a new light and experience your environment like never before, only at Night Blooms!
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20th Annual Whistlestop Weekend Festival • August 13-14 • John Hunt Park • Huntsville • www.whistlestopweekend.com Come have a toe-tappin, barbeque-eatin’ good time and best of all it’s all for a good cause. All proceeds benefit EarlyWorks Children’s Museum and educational programs for area children. In addition to the KCBS pro competition, there is a Shade Tree Cookers contest, Kid’s Q contest and People’s Choice Awards in the Shade Tree area. Tribute bands will take the stage both Friday and Saturday night, entertaining crowds with music from the Doobie Brothers, Santana, Tom Petty and Lynyrd Skynyrd. Local artists will round out the weekend entertainment.
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THE GUIDE
Glow Run 5k • August 14 at 6 p.m. • Cummings Research Park, 901 Explorer Blvd NW, Huntsville • www.drmglowrun.org
Grab your glow sticks and start training for Downtown Rescue Mission’s annual GLOW Run on Saturday, Aug. 14, in Cummings Research Park. Join a thousand other glow runners as they walk, run, or skip through our neon and starlit course to raise money for the homeless men, women, and children in our community. Come early and stay late for food trucks, a live DJ, laser light show, custom balloon art, face painting, free flow glow performers, and more.
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PEOPLE
A NATURAL STORYTELLER A little bit of daydreaming in her college accounting class led Cynthia Simmons to the creation of her first character, The Lonely Bean STORY BY ERIN COGGINS PHOTOS BY JOSHUA BERRY
Madison Living 15
16 Madison Living
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As a self-proclaimed fabulist, Cynthia Simmons is a natural storyteller. That natural ability and a little bit of daydreaming in her college accounting class led to the creation of her rst character, the onely ean Although Simmons was pursuing a degree in accounting, her creative side wanted to design webpages, so she decided to obtain a minor in studio art. One of her projects in the class was to create something she had an interest in. “I have always loved to sketch and draw. I drew the story and characters out and created a story page for the project,” Simmons said. “I got an A on the project.” That college project turned into the children’s book “The onely ean which immons self published throu h Amazon in 2019. The story about the last bean left on a child’s plate encourages children to eat all the of the food on their plates to be healthy. The bean wants to serve his purpose. “I like to tell funny stories; things to make you laugh,” immons said he onely ean tells children not to ive up or eat all of your food. I just want people to be able to take things from my stories.” Although the story has been published, Simmons is not through with her journey with the lonely bean, or as she refers to him, “her little guy.” “I have made little beans out of socks to use in children’s
workshops. I toss the kids the beans and when they catch it, they have to share their names,” Simmons said. “I want to create color pages, little bean bags and maybe some chocolate beans.” esides brin in her character to life for the ids in her workshop, Simmons wants to animate them in an APP that will allow the drawings to move. She is currently working with her 15-year-old son, Eli, to make this happen. “When Eli was little, I would test my stories out on him to see if I could get him to sit still, now he is going to run my website,” Simmons said. “He is taking a course on coding at New Century High School, and we are both researching what is the easiest, cheapest, most used platforms out there. He takes on one project and I the other.” n fact, immons rst boo is truly a family pro ect he dedicated the book to her husband. “He encouraged me to do it. I had it all ready and he told me to just do it,” Simmons said. “It felt awesome when I saw the book and I felt that I had conquered the world; that I had accomplished something huge, and he had encouraged me to do it.” Simmons’ books are a combination of her creative sketches and her talent for writing poetry. She prefers that all her stories rhyme. Her inspiration though, comes from many
Madison Living 17
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places. She worked as a creative art teacher at a Headstart one summer and noticed that kids say funny things. It was at this job that another one of her “little guys” was created. “It was nap time, and I was eating chips. I saw a spider in the window. I thought I did not see that spider until I was eating chips,” Simmons said. “I decided to write a story about a spider that eats potato chips.” That spider is the subject of Simmons’ next book. The story is written. All she needs is the time to sketch out the full story. “I work full-time and like all full-time working Moms, it is di cult for me to nd the time to do the thin s want to for fun sometimes,” Simmons said. In the meantime, Simmons continues to write down her ideas, usually on sticky notes. “There are sticky notes everywhere. I do not throw away anything because I usually sketch or write ideas on any piece of paper can nd, immons said then place them all in a massive book of concepts to keep them organized.” Although Simmons has plans to publish more books, she still en oys the ourney that her rst little uy has taken her on. “My little guy is his own character. He and I are cool. He is not mad at me for the ending of the book,” Simmons said. “I still look back on him and the book and say “yeah, that was fun. I did that.”
Madison Living 19
....................... Story Update .......................
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PEOPLE
MAKING “SWEET” HISTORY Local home-school students learn first hand how state government works while getting sweet potatoes named as the state vegetable STORY BY ERIN COGGINS PHOTOS BY JOSHUA BERRY
In the June issue of Madison Living Magazine, we brought you the story of a home-school group in the Madison area that made history by successfully working to get the sweet potato named the state vegetable. Here is a brief recap and update to that story. Since 2011, Kristin Smith of Harvest has shared her love of history and government by teaching homeschooled families through her group, The Learning Exchange, and through the co-op extension of HOPE Christian Academy. She was leading a class through Alabama History in 2019 when they discovered that Alabama had not named an o cial state ve etable his sparked a lesson in civics which spanned over two years and included two di erent classes of home schoolers The lesson culminated last Month when, on Thursday, July 8, Smith and 13 home-schooled students stood with Governor Kay Ivey, Senators Garlan Gudger and Tom Butler, and Representatives Randall Shedd, Andy Whitt, and Parker Moore on the front steps of the Capitol where the governor signed the law designating the sweet potato as Alabama s o cial state ve etable Governor Ivey congratulated the students on their “good work”.
Madison Living 27
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The home-schoolers also met and were praised by Speaker of the House Mac McCutcheon and were honored to hear words of wisdom and encouragement from Senators Gudger and Butler and Representative Whitt. Senator Gudger took the class on a VIP tour of The State House where they were allowed to visit both chambers of the state legislature. The group was invited to tour the Capitol building where they met with Secretary of State John Merrill, who also congratulated the students, spoke about his position, and took questions from the students. The class was treated to lunch by Hunter McBrayer, the Executive Director of ALFA’s Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association, and John Allen Nichols, ALFA’s Agriculture Counsel. While in Montgomery, the class also received VIP treatment at The State Archives, toured a civil rights museum, picnicked at Riverfront Park, visited Dexter Avenue Baptist Church, and stopped at the First White House of the Confederacy. The students included Kyra Smith, Matthew Ray, Kiley Ray, Kaleb Ray, Lawren Wright, Skyler Williams, Luke Wagner, Andrew Silvertooth, Emma Burnette, Landon Burnette, Lillian Parry, Caroline Parry, and Si’Mya Hampton. “It was incredible to see where our state laws are made,” Matthew Ray, 16, said about the student’s trip to the state
capital. Kyra Smith, 16, added, “ It was exciting to see all of the history that we read about in class!” Senior Kiley Ray, 18, who will be a Freshman at Jacksonville State this fall said, “I loved getting to meet our elected o cials and in uirin about their li es and disli es about their job.” “I felt famous with all of the people we were able to meet. The whole trip put into focus how much of a change regular people (even kids) can make with some hard work,” Andrew Silvertooth, 11, said. Andrew also received an invitation from Representative Parker Moore to work as a Page in the House of Representatives next session. Andrew’s mother, Jennifer, commented, “The trip to Montgomery was the culmination of the hard work of two classes and the amount of doors it is opening for our kids to pursue their dreams and continue learning about our state government is amazing! I think being there and seeing it all in person really added some perspective that these kids will remember for their entire life. They would never get education from strictly being in a classroom.” The group also received statewide and national exposure with a feature on Simply Southern TV. The show premiered locally on July 11 on WAFF-TV 48 in Huntsville and was rebroadcast on national cable network RFD-TV the following Wednesday.
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FROM THE OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
Madison’s strong teamwork leads to success
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Paul Finley Mayor City of Madison
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Henry Ford once said, “If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself.” This statement remains true for our community. Regionally, we are strong together. Huntsville was recently ranked 3rd in top places to live in the U.S. by U.S. News and World Report. Madison shares in that success as well as our 35758 zip code was ranked by AL.com as the best ip code to live in Alabama usinesses are oc in to our area because our region is economically sound, even through a global pandemic. Even without baseball last year Toyota Field in Town Madison hosted 175 non baseball events, creating enjoyable family activities and bringing in sound tax dollars for our community. This year our Rocket City Trash Pandas have played 26 home games to date and they are knocking attendance stats out of the park! Total announced attendance sits at 158,289 and their average home game attendance of nearly 6,100 per game leads all of Double-A baseball and ranks 4th in all of Minor League Baseball behind only Triple-A teams Nashville, El Paso, and Las Vegas. The Town Madison district is also booming with eateries including J Alexanders, The Yard Milkshake Bar, Outback, Panara Bread, Moe’s Barbecue, Starbuck’s, Slim Chickens and many more open or in-process of being built now. The investment our community made in our schools buy increasing property taxes is paying dividends as the new Midtown Elementary opens for the 2021-22 school year. In addition the ity is ma in pro ress in advancements to infrastructure properly support tra c at the new ourney Middle chool o eltic rive, slated to open their doors for the school year. Nearby, our Historic Downtown district has grown with the addition of the Avenues of Madison and we will soon open the renovated Home Place Park for amphitheater concert seating for up to 700. Focus on improvements to green ways and side walk connections, as well as enhancements at Palmer and Dublin Park remain a major priority. As CARES Act and American Rescue Plan funds roll in, we are able to directly serve our community with these projects. unds are also slated for road pro ects that support better connectivity for our police and re services, alon with increased public safety e orts Additionally, our community will start to see the former Three Springs facility transform into a new community center, providing space and activities for all Madison residents. Madison’s mission is to provide excellent services through responsible use of public resources, enhancing the quality of life for our community. This focus continues to drive us everyday, and we clearly see the results of forward thought and teamwork leading to the City of Madison’s success. -Mayor Paul Finley
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MEET CHIEF JOHNNY GANDY Madison’s new Chief of Police considers himself “blessed” to have been selected to lead Madison’s Police Department STORY BY GREGG PARKER PHOTOS BY WILLIAM AYCOCK
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Johnny Gandy is acclimating himself to a new job, his fellow employees and the pulse of Madison’s day-to-day life as Police Chief for Madison Police Department. Although still invested in law enforcement, Gandy had decided to retire from the Virginia Beach Police Department. He considered moving to Alabama, Florida or Texas. Learning that Madison was recruiting a chief, Gandy researched the city. “I found Madison to be a city with lots to o er and seemed an ideal place to live, andy said hen he interviewed, Gandy felt immediately at home and decided Madison was the place where he wanted to live. “I am blessed to be selected.” Madison and Virginia Beach share similarities: rapid growth and associated growing pains, ‘overnight’ building of subdivisions on farmland, population sprawl, demands on city infrastructure. Circa 1990, Virginia Beach saw arrival of Stihl Corporation, illian ernon and A reali nments ra c was terrible. Something was always being dug up to lay pipes and/or utility lines. Everywhere suddenly seemed more crowded . . . (as) I’m sure Madison residents are experiencing now,” Gandy said. Like Madison, Virginia Beach is diverse in race and cultures. Both cities are residential communities for a nearby
metropolitan area, have large military populations and support active-duty military and veterans, while supporting a mix of industrial, business, technology, residential and agricultural areas, Gandy said. Police departments in Madison and Virginia Beach are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies or CALEA. “Both agencies are committed to e cellence and lled with very hard wor in , competent and intelli ent o cers who are sel essly dedicated to providing the best services to their respective communities,” Gandy said. Any di erences ocation and si e ir inia each is on the coast and covers 500 square miles with a population of 460,000. Madison is landlocked and much smaller. Gandy’s police career started as a Security Police Law Enforcement Specialist in the U.S. Air Force. He then was a police o cer in hesapea e, ir inia before transferrin as a state certi ed o cer to ir inia each, where he served for years is obs as o cer ran ed from patrol, eld trainin and tra c to wal in beat As etective, andy served in Property Crimes Unit, Auto Theft Unit and Robbery Squad, primarily working bank robberies. Promoted to Sergeant, Gandy returned to Detective Bureau as roperty rimes upervisor e or ani ed the rst
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Crisis Intervention Team or CIT and supervised units for Domestic Violence and Missing Persons. ransferrin to nternal A airs as nvesti ator, Gandy was promoted to Lieutenant. He was Patrol Shift Commander, walking-beat at Oceanfront. He was selected as CALEA Manager and led the department to three consecutive re-accreditations and then served as Executive Aide to Chief of Police. Promoted to Captain, Gandy worked as Command uty cer and was appointed as st recinct ommander. He also was a college adjunct professor in criminal justice with Tidewater Community College and Saint Leo University. My best assi nments were ield rainin cer and atrol er eant made a si ni cant impact on trainin new o cers, alon with supervisin and working alongside a squad. Patrol Sergeant is the best, and most critical assignment, in all of police work,” Gandy said. “My most proud achievement was creation of Virginia Beach’s Crisis Intervention Team. here s no tellin how many lives o cers have saved, how many potential deadly force or o cer involved shooting incidents did not happen or how much of a positive impact the o cers made in the eyes of the public.”
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A much more personal incident involved a si ni cant tragedy. Gandy was initial police incident commander when a disgruntled city employee gun-downed 12 fellow employees and a citizen during a mass/active shooter event hat made me ta e pride in such a horri c act was watchin my fellow o cers sel essly run toward the sound of un re when everyone else was runnin away, providin rst aid to shootin victims, showin tremendous compassion for victim’s families and showing courage which represents the best in the law enforcement profession,” he said. “The most disappointing situations occurred a year after the courage I witnessed that day. Too many in this nation too one bad act by a police o cer in a far away city and used that to smear the reputation … and compassion of every police o cer, andy said In Madison Police Department, “it’s too early to tell what changes need to be made,” Gandy said. He is evaluating internal processes and service delivery for any needed improvements. He will look to possibly hire non-sworn positions to alleviate multiple tas s that patrol o cers and investigators perform. “Madison Police Department is excellent with community outreach and has implemented excellent programs, such as Kids Camp, Text to Protect and rape defense. I don’t want to change these but instead look for more opportunities,” Gandy said. “I’m a military ‘brat’ so I have no hometown,” Gandy said. He lived longest in Virginia Beach. Majoring in criminal justice, he earned a bachelor’s degree at Saint Leo University in St. Leo, Fla. and a master’s degree from Troy University. In a bit of personal trivia … While in the U.S. Air Force, andy was involved albeit in a minor way in lmin a James Bond movie. His wife Debra-Lynn is originally from Orange County, Calif. and works as a court reporter. They own Tigger, an Old English Sheepdog.
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....................... AROUND TOWN .......................
2020 Over the Edge - photo credit: Steve Babin
Go “Over the Edge” for our kids!
...
Lee Marshall
Founder / CEO Kids to Love Foundation
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I am not afraid to make bold moves to help children living in foster care, and over the last 3 years I’ve learned our community isn’t afraid of e tremes either ur brave and erce friends prove it every year when we ask them to harness up for Kids to Love’s annual Over the Edge fundraising event. Over the Edge is like nothing else you will see in north Alabama! “Edgers” rappel 160 feet down the side of the Regions Center in downtown Huntsville. Sound like a good time hen you are ust the person we re looking for! Rappelers earn their spot by raising $1,500
to support Kids to Love. You’ll have even more fun if you form a team with friends! It’s easier than you think to meet your fundraising goal. ou can nd all the information you need to register on our website kidstolove.org. If thrill-seeking isn’t your thing, don’t worry. There will be a lot of fun on the ground, from a VIP Street Party on Friday, September 17th, to family friendly fun on Saturday the 18th. However you choose to join in, be sure to put it on your calendar today so you won’t miss a moment! m oin ver the d e will you
SPORTS
BACK TO NORMAL
The camaraderie, tailgating, school spirit and the grand ole sport of football will soon return STORY AND PHOTOS BY BOB LABBE
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In our society the world we knew prior to the COVID-19 pandemic in many ways will never be normal again, but high school football gives the community a chance to travel back in time to have some remembrance of normalcy. The camaraderie, tailgating, school spirit and the grand ole sport of football will soon return. More than 42,000 participate in high school football in Alabama and all those surrounding the most popular sport in the Yellowhammer State look for some normalcy resemblance of the past. In 2021, the popping of the pads, the cheering from sideline cheerleaders, the thunderous music from the school bands and the rousing cheers from the crowds will be close to normal following the guidelines set forth by the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) and the Alabama Department of Public Health. Kelvis White enters his second season as head coach of the Bob Jones Patriots in 2021 with intentions to use football as a way to bring together the community in the safest way possible. He said, “This is the new normal as our players have adjusted to the guidelines we have in place. We still take precautions as a lot of our activities are held outside and inside we still wear masks and try and keep spread out e try and eep our sta and our players safe At crosstown ames lemens i h, the o cial overall
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athletic program will follow any best practices passed down by the AHSAA, which includes no restrictions on capacity among the attending crowds. Just that one factor will bring back the memories of yesteryear. had Mc ehee is ta in his rst team at ames lemens to the eld this season comin to the pro ram from oover where he was defensive coordinator the last three seasons. He’s had a short preparation timeframe taking over the football program earlier this year, but is strict on following the uidelines for the safety of the players and sta “COVID is still here and we’re following many of the same guidelines set forth last season as we’re trying to provide the safest environment possible for everyone involved with our team,” said the 44-year old McGehee. “Everyone’s more comfortable with our preparations and ready to move on to full stadium crowds, especially after last year’s limited attendance.” In 2020, COVID guidelines were set to where if a team had a certain infection rate from the virus games were forfeited as the AHSAA left that decision up to each individual school system. Those recommendations remain in place, but with the COVID vaccinations in high gear the idea of having to forfeit games is hopefully a thing of the past. Generally most schools on occasions have a case of CO-
VID pop up here and there. At both Bob Jones and James Clemens no positive cases have been among its football programs since the spring. “There have been no positive cases since I arrived here at James Clemens and I think we’ve been very fortunate not to having any cases,” said McGehee, who cautioned by adding, “You never know as we could get COVID from outside the program. We express to our players to be safe at all times.” “For coaches this has been uncharted waters and has been tough making adjustments,” added White, who has 85-90 players on the eld with an additional 35-40 in the freshman program. “It’s been a tough year for all of us mentally. All teams across the state have done a great job dealing with the pandemic and have bounced back.”
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re season practices be an the rst of Au ust and, unlike 2020, teams across the state had some type of spring practice and summer workouts this year to help prep the players in a way that is very close to what would be considered normal in previous years. During the pandemic and with many weeks of some type of quarantine the high school student-athletes became bored and many of the players opted not to play in 2020. This season, the participating numbers have increased at most local schools and the feeling in the weight rooms and on the practice elds is a more normal atmosphere. “We’re approaching everything as normal as possible and want to be at 100-percent as we head into our season,” said McGehee, as his Jets see its rst action of the campai n on Au ust in Oxford and a week later against Murphy High in Mobile. hite indicated he and his sta underwent some new coaching techniques to accommodate the pandemic in an e ort to eep his players and sta as safe as possible e made it wor , said White. “It’s been a crazy year and we’re ready to get back to ‘Friday Night Lights’,” said McGehee.
“
It’s been a tough year for all of us mentally. All teams across the state have done a great job dealing with the pandemic and have bounced back
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....................... MADISON HOSPITAL .......................
Taron Thorpe’s desire to give back to his community helps keep Madison Hospital strong
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Mary Lynne Wright President Madison Hospital
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From the day we opened our doors, I have relied on the wisdom and expertise of our Madison Hospital Board. The board members generously volunteer their time to help make sure that your hospital is the very best it can be, with services that re ect the chan in needs of our rowin community. Today, I want to introduce you to one of those board members: Taron Thorpe. Taron is regional president for CB&S Bank, which has locations across Alabama, Tennessee and Mississippi. Despite his busy work schedule, Taron makes the time to volunteer with a number of local nonpro t or ani ations In addition to his duties with our hospital board, he is vice chair of Leadership Greater Huntsville and board president at The Riley Center, which provides services to children and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Taron is also a former president of the Madison Chamber of Commerce.
“I just think it’s important,” he says, “to give back to your community.” Taron moved his family to Madison in 2004 and soon ot behind the e ort to brin a hospital to the city. As a father to two young girls, he said it was comforting having 24-7 care right around the corner. Madison Hospital has also been a “game changer” from a civic standpoint, Taron said, because proximity to medical care is a big selling point for new residents and businesses. “Madison Hospital has really allowed Madison to take the next step as a community,” he said. e re blessed to have reat sta , reat physicians and great leadership.” Taron’s wife, Tammy Thorpe, is a former fourth-grade teacher with Madison City Schools. Their older daughter, Alex, most recently taught math at James Clemens High School. Their younger daughter, Libby, will be a senior at the University of Alabama and is majoring in nursing.
OUT&ABOUT
MCC EXPO & KIDS DAY
Fun scenes from the 2021 Madison Chamber of Commerce Business Expo and Kids Day at Insanity Complex PHOTOS BY JOHN FEW
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The annual MADISON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS EXPO & KIDS DAY was held Saturday, June 26, at Insanity Complex, 100 Skate Park Drive in Madison. MCC Interim Executive Director Merrill Wright said she was pleased with the turnout and response she received from participating businesses, especially after having to cancel last year’s expo due to COVID. The year’s theme was “baseball” in celebration of the Rocket City Trash Pandas inaugural season in Madison. The family fun-filled event featured over 60 local businesses showcasing their products and services. Kids enjoyed the free activities and photo ops with Trash Panda mascot Sprocket and balloon art from Dr. Osborne. There were also tours of the HEMSI ambulance and Madison fire truck.
Lauren Chamber with Pacifish Aquatic Rescue
Carey Rosenblum watches as Brigid and Ambose O’Kane are handed some Cracker Jacks at the Rosenblum Realty booth.
Kids at the Expo were treated to several inflatable rides and activities.
Dr. Osborne hands a balloon animal to Warren Olander, age 8, at the Expo.
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Brandy and Anabel Olander are pictured with Martha Banna at the Continental Roofing booth.
Bailey and Brooke Bennet
There were also informational booths, like these from the City of Madison (left) and Downtown Rescue Mission (right).
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OUT&ABOUT
FOURTH OF JULY SPECTACULAR The Trash Pandas hosted their second annual 4th of July Celebration and Fireworks Spectacular at Toyota Field PHOTOS BY ROCKET CITY TRASH PANDAS
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FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR - The Trash Pandas hosted their second annual Fireworks Spectacular on the 4th of July. Held at Toyota Field in Madison, the patriotic extravaganza featured on-field activities like volleyball, putt-putt golf, football, watermelon and hot dog eating contests, food trucks, live entertainment, and fireworks. Below are some fun scenes from the event courtesy of the Rocket City Trash Pandas. For more about upcoming events, go to www.trashpandasbaseball.com.
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....................... Madison City Schools ....................... Madison City Schools shared some photos with Madison Living Magazine showing progress as construction of Midtown Elementary continues toward completion for the 2021 school start this month. MCS Superintendent Dr. Ed Nichols said construction is on track for the start of school. The $34 million school is located along Wall Triana next to Kroger. A second school, Journey Middle School, will be located behind the district’s central office on Celtic Drive. It will be completed in time for the 2022-23 school year. Madison residents overwhelmingly approved a 12-mill property tax increase in September 2019 to fund the construction of the schools, plus additions at Bob Jones and James Clemens.
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OUT&ABOUT
SUMMER CAMPS - Fun is happening by leaps and bounds this summer through area camps at Madison City Schools. Pictured are fun scenes from the LEAP Academy at Madison Elementary, various summer programs at local schools and the Madison Police Department’s Kids Camp. More than half of MCS schools have activities going on ranging from ELL (English Language Learners) programs for students still new to the English language to Extended School Year (ESY), and reading and math classes (above and on facing page). At the LEAP Academy (below), students receive character education and learn about teamwork, diversity, acceptance, relationships, adversity and other life skills. Games, skits and discussion groups are all part of the fun. The annual Madison Police Department Kids Camp is always a blast for area rising sixth graders (bottom of facing page).
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AT THE RICKY SHACK
Family Time (or Sister Fest) leads back to The Ricky Shack
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As this pandemic subsides and crowd gatherings are deemed safe, BBQ Pitmasters and Judges are returning to their favorite pastimes. A number of competitions have already been sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) in Alabama and Mississippi, and I have been selected to judge in several of these competitions. Back The Blue, a large two-day regional contest was scheduled for Madison, Mississippi. My thought was to write about “Sister Cities” of Madison, Alabama and Madison, Mississippi. We immediately began to make plans
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By Richard George @ricky_shack
to go back to my former home state to judge BBQ and to visit family. Shortly thereafter, we were advised that there was a change of venue-the two-day Back The Blue contest was being moved to Brookhaven, MS and concentrated into a one day coo o o, the story line too a slight detour, but I know you will enjoy those great Mississippi recipes. Fun family times are what inspire me to share these events and recipes. n early May, the o ild oo o was held at the historic train station in downtown Brookhaven, MS and three weeks later the But-
ler, AL and Meridian, MS Twin States BBQ Festival was held at the Lauderdale County Agricultural Complex in Meridian. With Jackson close to both these contests, we (my wife) decided a sister fest was needed. Gayle’s sister Robin and her husband Durr Boyles live in Jackson. They are always gracious hosts and fun to be with. On our last trip to Jackson, Durr and Robin took us to one of their favorite restaurants, the CRAZY CAT - EAT UP on Canton Mart Road. Over cocktails, appetizers of fresh Mesa Fried Oysters and Skillet Cornbread, entrees of Grilled Carolina Rainbow rout, an oasted ed sh and an eared esame rusted Tuna, and an awesome Strawberry Shortcake (see recipe below) it was suggested that Durr might come to Madison and cook at The Ricky Shack. Being a respected Mississippi State graduate and an accomplished Big Green Egg (BGE) cook, permission was granted for him to cook on my BGE. Forget the fact that he outranks me, but it allows me to share with you that a “Major General feeds the troops’ family at The Ricky Shack.” With humor and respect, but not permission, we sometimes even refer to Durr as the TAG (The Adjutant General of MS.) and Robin as the SOTAG (Spouse of The Adjutant General.) Durr was appointed as Adjutant General by the Governor in 2016 and reappointed last year. His position oversees the activities of both the Army and Air National Guard for Mississippi. When Durr and Robin are available to travel to North Alabama, the sister fest occurs at our house. Their middle sister, Mary Beth and husband Mike Strain also live in Madison. We ALL gather with children and grandchildren at The Ricky Shack for food and fellowship. Durr and Robin’s sons Gray (MSU Bulldog) and Connor (SMU Mustang) enjoy coming back to Jackson from their homes in Dallas to sample their dad’s special pork chops and their mom’s potatoes. Although Madison, AL is still almost 700 miles from Dallas, they are regulars at The Ricky Shack, where holidays are especially fun with many family members joining us. Durr shares his Sweet Heat Chops recipe: Select a bone-in pork chop of approximately 1 ½ inch thick. Marinate for 6 hours in a syrup like Mrs. Butterworth’s or Log Cabin syrup or substitute an authentic maple syrup for a heartier avor repare your re for indirect heat, conv tor legs up for slow and low temperature, add pecan chunks and stabili e the re at appro imately de rees After placin the pork chops on the grill, sprinkle with Tony Chachere’s Creole Seasoning. Dust the chops to your heat preference (careful, wives and young nieces may object), as it can produce a “kick.” After appro imately minutes, ip, and dust a ain see prior sentence for caution), then monitor the internal temperature with a quick read thermometer after another 10-15 minutes. The minimum suggested USDA safe internal temperature is 145 degrees. Remove the chops from the grill and lightly tent in aluminum foil. This will allow the natural juices to be redistributed throughout the chops. If cooked slowly, this can be a smoky, tender, sweet, moist delicacy. With a heavy hand and multiple shakes of Tony’s, it can be a spicy hot meat. If there is a good Mississippi State Ballgame on TV, the pork chops can be overcooked. They might not be quite as tender but will still be sweet Be on the lookout for the premier of Railyard BBQ Cook-Off in Downtown Madison on October 22 & 23. (www.railyardbbqfest.com) and smoky. You will enjoy this simple treat.
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[At a later date and wanting to try the sweetness of Mrs. Butterworth’s on a pork tenderloin, I followed his 6-hour marinade on a Publix Roasted Garlic and Black Pepper seasoned tenderloin. Thinking the pepper was already enough kick, I seasoned on the grill with my favorite Hardin’s Original Seasoning. I combined a chun of pecan and cherry for a smo y avor, and coo ed at same 225-degree temperature, until reaching 145 degrees internal temperature. This is so easy and delicious; you must try it.] Robin likes to prepare a family favorite cheesy hash brown casserole, renamed by her sons as Gloppy Potatoes. She shares: Ingredients: 2 lb. Frozen hash browns, 16 oz. Sour cream, 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, 1 can cream of chicken soup (10 ½ oz.), 1 tsp kosher salt, ¼ -½ tsp fresh cracked black pepper, 2 Tbsp minced onion, ¾ cup melted butter, 2 cups slightly, crushed corn a es reheat oven to de rees we coo this inside rather than on the BGE. In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen hash browns, sour cream, shredded cheese, chicken soup, salt, pepper, onion and ½ cup of melted butter. Mix well and pour into a 13 x 9-inch baking dish. In a small bowl, combine the other ¼ cup butter with the crushed corn a es Mi well and sprin le over the top of the casserole. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for approximately 60 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 5-10 minutes to ive the corn a es a little crunch onderful dish Lest we forget, adult beverages are important. Gray adds a little di erent spin to a Moscow Mule he ld ray Mule has become popular at The Ricky Shack. It is usually served in a copper mug, lled with onic ce Add o f ray oose od a, the uice of ½ freshly squeezed lime and then add 6 oz. Goslings Ginger Beer. Give it a gentle swirl and serve with a slice of lime. Sometimes we garnish with a fresh mint instead. Simple yet tasty. Younger brother Connor shares his special twist on Ranch Water. Rim a highball glass with Tajin classic seasoning (for a little kick.) Add 2 shots (3 oz.) of a premium tequila like Casamigos and the juice of 1 fresh lime to your glass. Fill the glass with ice and top it o with opo hico mineral water li htly stir then place a thin sliver of jalapeño on top of the ice. Simply add more Topo Chico for a lighter version. CB’s Ranch Water is very refreshing.
1 tablespoon baking powder 1 tablespoon kosher salt 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 cup packed lard, butter, or Crisco (or a combination of these) 2 cups room temperature buttermilk Instructions: 1. Heat oven to 450 degrees n a lar e bowl mi the our and the ne t four in redients with a whisk. Add the lard or other fat of your choice to the our mi ture usin your n ers, uic ly rub the fat into the our till it resembles cornmeal. Mixture can be very coarse looking. Ma e a well in the center of the our mi ture, add all the buttermilk and the yeast mixture and stir with a big spoon quickly, just till it is blended and begins to mass and form a sticky dough. (If it appears dry add a little more buttermilk) Strawberry Shortcake mmediately turn dou h out onto a enerously oured surJon Lansdale, chef, and co-owner of Crazy Cat - Eat Up happily shared his old family recipe so that we might also enjoy it in North face. Flour your hands, knead the dough a few times (about 8) until a cohesive ball of dou h forms, ently atten dou h with hands to Alabama: even thic ness, usin a oured rollin pin, li htly roll out dou h to Angel Biscuits 3/4-inch thickness Macerated Strawberries 6. Using a round cookie cutter (or an emptied metal can) cut Fresh Whipped Cream Quarter ripe strawberries and cover with a healthy amount of out the biscuits. DO NOT TWIST THE CUTTER. GO STRAIGHT sugar and let sit for a few hours or all day. For 1 Pound of berries DOWN. Twisting will stop the biscuits from rising properly. 7. Place on a cookie sheet with an edge or a large cast iron skillet. use 1 1/2 cups of sugar or to taste. pray either one with coo in spray rst et the biscuits rise in a Whipped Cream: Whip 2 cups of heavy whipping cream, as it thickens slowly add 1 warm draft free place for about 20 minutes 8. Bake until golden brown. About 25 minutes but ovens do difcup of powdered sugar till it is “thick”. The amount of sugar can be fer so check at about 20 to see how it is going. adjusted to suit your preference or left out altogether. To assemble: Angel Biscuits: Let Biscuits cool. Slice one biscuit open and put the bottom into 1 package yeast dissolved in 1/4 cup warm water cups sifted unbleached all purpose our measured after sift- a serving bowl. Spoon berries and juice over the biscuit, then top with whipped cream, and then place the biscuit top back on. ing) White Lily is my preference Now, enjoy. 1/4 cup of sugar
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MADISON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CONNECTIONS
Ribbon cuttings, groundbreakings and networking events held last month. Congratulations!
Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting for MCC Member Chick-Fil-A - Clift Farm
Grand Opening Ribbong Cutting for MCC Member Regina Mitchell Real Estate
Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting for MCC Member Coldwell Banker-CK Mann Realty.
Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting for MCC Member European Wax Center
Groundbreaking Ceremony for five restaurants coming to Town Madison - Five Guys Burgers and Fries, Outback Steakhouse, Prohibition Rooftop Bar & Kitchen, Slim Chickens, and Super Chix Chicken & Custard.
www.madisonalchamber.com
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PHONE 256-325-8317
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MADISON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CONNECTIONS
Alabama Credit Union - Business After Hours The following are the winning businesses for their decorated booths at the 2021 Business Expo and Kids Day. The theme centered on baseball in recognition of the Rocket City Trash Pandas’ first season in Madison. Congratulations!
Business Expo & Kids Day Booth 1st Place Winner - Virtuous Realty Group
Business Expo & Kids Day Booth 2nd Place Winner - Continental Roofing Company, LLC
Business Expo & Kids Day Booth 3rd Place Winner - Rosenblum Realty, Inc
www.madisonalchamber.com
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PHONE 256-325-8317
MAINTENANCE PROGRAM
y o j n e d n a
! d n i m f peace o
Join and get TWO MAINTENANCE VISITS A YEAR from our NATE-certified technicians who will clean and check your unit for optimal performance. YOU WILL ALSO RECEIVE: ✔ 10% discount on replacement parts ✔ Top priority if you need service during peak season ✔ No overtime charges We’ll handle the paperwork to register your systems. Call us today!
OneHourHuntsville.com
256-851-6510
Joe East
AL Cert #05007
4242 232-1
Join the JOE EAST ONE HOUR HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING
Madison Living 55
A new day. A new beginning. It all starts with amazing care in a new facility nestled at the base of Monte Sano – the mountain of health. The Orthopedic & Spine teams move to a new free-standing tower which is likely to become a destination for people seeking life-improving treatment options — a new beginning to do the important things in life. It’s what people want from orthopedic and spine treatment.
424235-1 1
56 Madison Living
Huntsville, Alabama • huntsvillehospital.org/ost
