October 2015
Meet Robby Parker Principal, teacher, coach – now assistant superintendent
Spooky sustenance Melissa Friday shares recipes for a tasty Halloween
At home in Madison
Couple’s home showcases passion for family, world travel, sports cars
They can dig it James Clemens volleyball gets set to spike for new season Madison Living 1
cubcadet.com
l e d o M nd CLEARANCE E SMART FACTORY FINANCING AVAILABLE. 1
AVAILABLE ON SELECT MODELS TO QUALIFIED CUSTOMERS.
RZT L46 KH
RZT S46 FAB
XT2 LX46 KW
• Tackle the tough jobs with powerful professionalgrade V-Twin engine
• Tackle the tough jobs with powerful professionalgrade V-Twin engine
• Tackle the tough jobs with powerful professionalgrade V-Twin engine
• 46" Fabricated Mowing Deck with Dual ZT-2200 Dual Hydro-Gear
• 46" Fabricated Mowing Deck with Dual ZT-2200 Dual Hydro-Gear
• 46" Mowing Deck with Electric PTO
• Over-sized lap bars with full length comfort grip
• Heavy-duty 12-gauge reinforced fully-welded 1-piece full-length steel frame
LAP BAR ZERO-TURN RIDER
WAS $2,79999*
FOUR-WHEEL STEER ZERO-TURN RIDER
NOW $2,69999*
WAS $3,19999*
LAWN TRACTOR
• Foot Pedal Auto Hydrostatic Drivetrain
NOW $3,09999*
WAS $1,99999*
NOW $1,94999*
Z-FORCE SZ48 KW
XT2 LX42 KH
FOUR-WHEEL STEER ZERO-TURN RIDER
LAWN TRACTOR
• Tackle the tough jobs with powerful professional-grade V-Twin engine
• Tackle the tough jobs with powerful professional-grade V-Twin engine
• 42" Mowing Deck with Manual PTO
• 48" Fabricated Mowing Deck with Dual ZT-2200 Dual Hydro-Gear, RevTek
• Foot Pedal Auto Hydrostatic Drivetrain
WAS $1,69999*
WAS $4,49999*
NOW $1,64999*
NOW $4,39999*
• Heavy-duty 12-gauge reinforced fullywelded 1-piece full-length steel frame
MADISON LAWN CENTER
30515 Hwy. 72 West • Madison, AL 35756
256-233-7176
www.madisonlawncenter.com (1) SUBJECT TO CREDIT APPROVAL ON A CUB CADET CREDIT CARD ACCOUNT. NOT ALL CUSTOMERS QUALIFY. ADDITIONAL TERMS MAY APPLY. PLEASE SEE YOUR LOCAL CUB CADET DEALER FOR DETAILS. * Product Price — Actual retail prices are set by dealer and may vary. Taxes, freight, setup and handling charges may be additional and may vary. Models subject to limited availability. **See your local dealer for limited warranty details and information. Certain restrictions apply. †As rated by Kohler, all power levels are rated at 3600 RPM per SAE J1940 gross ††% $ & * ) % "$% #") $ & %& ! "$ ! ) & ! $ & ! "$ ! ) & ! $& , * !& $! & "! # , & "!% ! #$" $ % $ %' & &" ! ) & "'& !"& % * !"& $ - & $ !( !&"$* ! "$ '! & %# , & "!% + ' &
MANAGEMENT Alan Brown President & Publisher
4 22 features
EDITORIAL Alison James Editor Gregg Parker Staff Writer Nick Sellers Staff Writer
14
ARTS & CULTURE HALLOWEEN FUN AT INSANITY COMPLEX
22
SPORTS JAMES CLEMENS VOLLEYBALL RELOADED
MARKETING Kim Maracigan Marketing Consultant
26
EDUCATION ROBBY PARKER: TRADING PLACES
Erin Medlen Marketing Consultant
30
HEALTH TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCES
34
CHAMBER NEWSLETTER
36
OUT AND ABOUT
Jen Fouts-Detulleo Photographer
CUSTOMER SERVICE Tammy Overman Customer Service PRODUCTION Jamie Dawkins Layken Gibbs Robyn Holm Michele Hughes Amanda Porter Design
home 4
Madison Living P.O. Box 859, Madison, AL 35758 Advertising Inquires 256.772.6677 Madison Living is published monthly by Madison Publications, LLC.
HOME WHERE THE HEART IS
food 10
LET’S EAT MELISSA FRIDAY’S SPOOKTACULAR TREATS
Madison Living 3
HOME
Where the heart is
Family memories fill Vic and Ann van Leeuwen’s home WRITTEN BY GREGG L. PARKER PHOTOGRAPHS BY JEN FOUTS-DETULLEO
V
ic and Ann van Leeuwen’s home in Ashley Estates shows their dedication to family, civic-minded pursuits, world travels and sports
cars. The van Leeuwens built their nine-room Colonial house in 1987. The floor plan allowed “common-sense layout. We wanted two stories,” Vic said. Their property needed to accommodate a detached garage for their prized 1966 Mustang. Vic bought the Mustang new and then dated and proposed to Ann in the car. They drove it to Nashville on their honeymoon and occasionally repeat that trip. 4 Madison Living
In 2006 they added a sunroom, which covers a large storm shelter. They also enhanced the kitchen and family room. Their furnishings range from casual in the sunroom to more formal in dining and living areas. Ann inherited her parents’ dining room furniture and her grandmother’s Singer treadle sewing machine and cookware. In the sunroom, photographs show the journey of Vic’s family through the Holocaust. Vic’s father attended college and learned to fly in Germany, relocated to Holland but then emigrated to the United States in 1927. Vic’s father flew in missions against the Japanese. “So, a Jewish-Dutch American, trained in Germany, flew against Germany’s ally,” Ann said. Other relatives of Vic’s father, including two
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The van Leeuwens built their nine-room Colonial house in 1987. This photograph shows Ann van Leeuwen and her mother on the Queen Mary as they sail from England to the United States in 1946.
married sisters and mother, remained in Holland. When the Nazis invaded the Low Countries and directed Jews to wear a yellow star, his mother, one sister and their families did not comply and became “submarines,” people hiding in plain sight. “They joined the underground and were eventually captured but survived,” Ann said. Leoni, the other sister, and her family did comply. “In 1943, Leoni, her husband and four children were transported to the Sobibor camp in Poland and sent to their deaths the day they arrived,” Ann said. Ann’s father, a U.S. Air Force sergeant in England during the war, met and married Doris ‘Dot’ Elwell. Born in England, Ann and her mother were among thousands of war brides and children who came to America — in their case, on the Queen Mary in 1946. Ann was raised in Jackson, Alabama, 60 miles north of Mobile. Her 95-year-old father still lives there. Ann retired from Bob Jones High School media specialist. Vic retired from the Army Missile Command and Missile Defense Agency. In civic work, Ann and Vic are Madison Optimist Club officers. They’re involved with
Madison Living 5
Rocket City Mustang and Valley Vettes’ Corvette clubs. Ann participates in Madison Friends of the Library and with Alabama Virtual Library. An Air Force veteran, Vic belongs to American Legion Post 229. At Temple B’nai Sholom in Huntsville, Ann serves on the board, as Sisterhood president and Temple librarian. Vic has served as Temple and 6 Madison Living
religious school president. They assist as Temple docents and at several churches’ Passover Seders. A seamstress, Ann designed their home’s drapes and many costumes for Bob Jones musicals. She also enjoys gardening. They vacation in Alabama and recently in Hawaii, as well as with Ann’s English relatives in Europe. Vic and Ann are University of Alabama alumni,
ABOVE: Ann and Vic van Leeuwen are the “adopted parents” of Merlin the macaw, who actually belongs to their son Dan.
GET IN YOUR NEW HOUSE QUICKER WITH FAST-TURN MORTGAGES. THAT’S PROGRESS.
Sharon Andrews Mortgage Officer NMLS# 243731 sandrews@myprogressbank.com 256.319.4915 office 256.509.5626 cell 8337 Highway 72, Madison
T H I N K I N G
F O R W A R D
www.myprogressbank.com
Member FDIC
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Their love of books is evident in the van Leeuwen’s family room. In their living room, a book is opened to show an 1800s street scene of Voorstraat in Dirksland, Overflakkee, Netherlands, where Vic van Leeuwen’s father was born. Ann van Leeuwen inherited her grandmother’s treadle sewing machine, which takes center stage in this hallway. Their dining room furniture originally belonged to Ann’s parents.
8 Madison Living
but their children attended Auburn University. “Roll Tide and War Eagle,” he said. For master’s degrees, Ann attended Alabama A&M University, and Vic studied at the Florida Institute of Technology. Ann served as Madison mayor and city councilman for 20-plus years. “Ann finally brought to fruition the Hughes Road Extension,” connecting Hughes Road to Madison Boulevard and giving the first uninterrupted access to Highway 20, Vic said. Ann also secured funding for Madison Public Library. “But she’s most proud when meeting a former Bob Jones or Stone Middle School student who’s a success. That’s when she really smiles!” Vic said. Merlin, their son Dan’s blue-and-gold macaw, lives in the sunroom. A Citation X pilot, Dan “has a 6-year-old ‘mini-Dan’ in first grade in Huntsville,” Vic said. “He’s married to a wonderful gal, who’s a stay-at-home mom.” Daughter Lanie and husband live in Madison with their 6-year-old son and 6-month-old daughter. Lanie works as an analyst with an electronic commerce company. Her husband, an engineer, works with the Missile Defense Agency.
Madison Living 9
LET’S EAT
Melissa Friday’s
spooktacular TREATS WRITTEN BY MELISSA FRIDAY PHOTOGRAPHS BY JEN FOUTS-DETULLEO Melissa and Mike Friday own Woodland Homes of Huntsville in Madison, Alabama and they invite you to tune in to their television show Dream Home Cooking every Sunday morning at 9:30 a.m. on WAAY 31.
GHOST COOKIES 24 Nutter Butter cookies 1 package of white almond bark (found on the baking aisle) Mini semisweet chocolate chips Line a large cookie sheet with wax paper. Melt the almond bark in the microwave according to the package directions. Dip each cookie into the almond bark and place onto the wax paper. Press two chocolate chips onto each cookie for the eyes. Place in the fridge until the almond bark sets.
Madison Living 11
SPOOKY SPIDER DEVILED EGGS 12 eggs, boiled and peeled 3 tablespoons of mayonnaise 2 tablespoons of sour cream 1 teaspoon of yellow mustard 1 tablespoon of vinegar 1 tablespoon of sugar
1 teaspoon of onion powder ¼ cup of Wickles Pickles, chopped Salt and pepper to taste Dash of hot sauce, optional Whole-pitted black olives
Cut eggs in half and carefully slip out the yolks into a medium bowl. Add the remaining ingredients, except the olives, and stir well. Scoop a teaspoon of yolk mixture into each egg white. Slice black olives in half and place one on top of each egg for the body of the spider. Slice the olives to make 8 thin slices for each egg – 4 legs on each side – and place them around the body to create the look of a spider. Wickles Pickles are a sweet and spicy pickle, but if you can’t find them, any of your favorite pickles will do. Tip for boiling eggs: Place eggs in a large pot of water. Bring to a boil. As soon as the water comes to a boil, add one tablespoon of vinegar, turn off the stove and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Let them sit for 13 minutes, then rinse with cold water. This is a trick my mother-in-law taught me, and they are always very easy to peel and never overcooked.
HALLOWEEN SNACK MIX 3 cups of Honey-Nut Cheerios 2 cups of chow mein noodles 1 cup of honey-roasted peanuts ½ cup of raisins ½ cup of orange and black M&M’s ½ cup of candy corn ½ cup each of peanut butter chips and white chocolate chips Mix in a large bowl and store in a large airtight container. This will keep for several weeks, and kids will love it!
MELISSA FRIDAY’S CHILI 2 lbs. ground beef 1 can of chili beans 1 bell pepper, chopped 1 cup of water 1 onion, chopped 4 tablespoons of chili powder 1 tablespoon of flour 2 tablespoons of cumin 1 (28-ounce) can of Rotel 1 tablespoons of sugar 1 (15-ounce) can of tomato sauce 1 tablespoon each of salt, pepper, 1 can of French Onion soup garlic powder and onion powder 2 cans of kidney beans (I get one ½ teaspoon of cinnamon can of dark and one can of light ¼ t. of cocoa powder beans) Brown beef with the onion and bell pepper. Drain the beef and place into a large pot. Stir in the flour until mixed well and add all of the remaining ingredients. Simmer at least an hour, but the longer it simmers on very low, the better it is! You may want to taste it as you cook it to see if you desire more of any of the seasonings. Serve with grated sharp cheddar, jalapenos and sour cream, or any desired toppings.
JALAPENO-CHEDDAR CORN MUFFINS 1 (6-ounce) package of Mexican or regular cornbread mix (the kind you just add milk or water to) 1 fresh jalapeno, seeded and chopped, or a small can of jalapeno
1 (7-ounce) can of Mexicorn 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil 2 tablespoons of sugar
Add the amount of milk it states on the back of the cornbread mix package and then stir in the remaining ingredients well. Spoon into a well-greased 24-count mini muffin tin. Bake at 375 degrees for 15 minutes or until browned. 12 Madison Living
Huntsville Hospital has been recognized for the second year in a row by Healthgrades as one of America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Spine Surgery®. Huntsville Hospital was the only hospital in Alabama to receive this distinction in 2015. Achievements include: · Spine Surgery Excellence Award for 2014 & 2015 · Top 5 percent in the nation for Spine Surgery for 2014 & 2015 · 5-star recipient for Spinal Fusion Surgery for 5 years in a row from 2011–2015
huntsvillehospital.org
ARTS & CULTURE
A young trick-or-treater interacts with beloved Sparky during a past Halloween on Main.
Halloween fun at Insanity Complex
14 Madison Living
WRITTEN BY NICK SELLERS PHOTOGRAPHS BY NICK SELLERS AND JEN FOUTS-DETULLEO
T
he same Halloween on Main fun that Madison is used to is moving from the streets of downtown Madison to the sprawling campus of Insanity
Complex. Establishing itself as a versatile venue of premier events, the park will be providing fun for the whole family Oct. 31. The skate park held an event last 16 Madison Living
year, but now that the inside is open, complete with two roller skating rinks, a climbing wall and much more, the event is set to be bigger than ever. The upcoming event is officially named Madison’s Insane Nightmare on Skate Street. “This will be a family-friendly Halloween-themed event for all ages to enjoy,” said Ally Stephenson, director of sales, marketing and events for Insanity Skate Park. Some of the events announced for the evening are a pie-eating contest, treasure in a hay stack, eyeball and spoon race, fish pond, balloon scramble, skateboard contest and snap apple – a variation on
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Dressed as a pink bunny rabbit, a girl plays lawn games at 16 Main St. in 2014. A pixilated, digital marauder takes to the streets. Youngsters parade in their Halloween costumes along Main Street in 2014. Mario and Luigi try their luck at trickor-treating. Two young astronauts soon will be good recruits for NASA.
the classic bobbing for apples. Of course, no Halloween party would be complete without a costume contest. Participants in the 12-and-under division will compete for best costume, scariest costume and most original costume. First, second and third place will receive prizes.
Madison Living 17
In the 13-and-up division, partygoers will try for first-, second- and third-place overall best costume. Carnival and yard games will go on, in addition to face painting for the youngsters. Vendors will be set up throughout the skate park for trick-or-treaters, and an “Insane Ghost Hay Ride” is sure to entertain. All the regular offerings will go on, such as mini golf, batting cages, skateboarding, rock wall climbing and roller-skating. Stephenson added that costumes may not jeopardize the safety on the roller rinks. As always with city-endorsed events, city volunteer and event coordinator Gayle Milam is helping organize the event. “We are still hoping that businesses on Main Street will open their shops for the trick-ortreaters,” Milam said. Stephenson said businesses from all over are needed to hand out candy and donate prizes. The event is rain or shine. For more, information contact Milam at 256772-2557 or by email at gayle.milam@madisonal. gov. Stephenson can be reached at 256-319-0000, ext. 1002, or by email at ally@insanitycomplex.com. LEFT: These two ladies show that witches can be bewitching in glamorous style.
18 Madison Living
FALL NATIONAL
FLOORING SALE! HURRY! SALE ENDS OCTOBER 31ST
GRANITE COUNTERTOPS UP TO
25% OFF
INSTALLATION DONE IN A DAY. BEAUTIFUL FOR LIFE!
PORCELAIN TILE
CARPET
99¢
$1.39
STARTING AT
SQUARE FOOT (50% OFF SELECT STYLES)
LUXURY VINYL WOOD PLANKS
STARTING AT
STARTING AT
INST ALL ED
SQUARE FOOT (PAD & FURNITURE MOVING - ADDITIONAL CHARGE)
$2.49
SQUARE FOOT (REGULAR $3.99 SQ. FT.)
15 MONTHS NO INTEREST PAYMENT PLAN! W.A.C. SEE STORE FOR DETAILS.
Celebrating
14 Years In Business
Supporting Our Local Customers
AN
DEALER
(256) 325-8453 • 7559 HWY. 72 W. SUITE B • MADISON • WOLDEFLOORING.COM
The 70’s Called!
AN
DEALER
Facebook.com/ Wolde-Flooring
Houzz.com/Pro/ Wolde-Flooring
They Want Their Kitchen Back!
Celebrating
14 Years In Business
Supporting Our Local Customers
CARPET • HARDWOOD • LAMINATE • TILE • GRANITE & QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS
(256) 325-8453 • 7559 HWY. 72 W. SUITE B • MADISON • WOLDEFLOORING.COM
SPORTS
James Clemens volleyball
RELOADED WRITTEN BY NICK SELLERS PHOTOGRAPHS BY JEN FOUTS-DETULLEO
22 Madison Living
A
s with many other James Clemens sports in the 2014-15 academic year, the Jets volleyball team was given a full senior class to work with for the first time in the school’s now-fouryear history. For every action, though, is an equal and opposite reaction. The Jets lost several seniors, including versatile Marigrace Holt, who signed with Pensacola State. The Jets aren’t the only ones, however, and are in good company with cross-town foe Bob Jones, which lost its entire starting lineup, including three who signed with colleges. That’s part of the reason why head coach Amanda Smith thinks her Jets team, which has only one true senior returning, has a good chance of making some noise in Class 7A, Area 8. “I think everyone in our Area got hit with huge
losses,” Smith said. “I think everyone’s losing somebody really important. It feels like a fresh start.” Sydney Edmonds is one of two seniors on the Jets squad. The other senior is Tysslie McCants, who is a transfer to the school. Edmonds, a middle hitter who’s the only senior who has been with the team her entire career, started as a freshman in 2012, when James Clemens surprisingly won its Area when it competed against Decatur, Austin and Florence. With the graduation of Holt, Katelyn Jenkins and Maggie Harr, Edmonds knows her time is now to lead the team. “Coming to JC, there were so many people helping me, and now as a senior I’ve been doing it four years, so I feel ready,” Edmonds said. Helping Edmonds out are juniors Angel Benson, Mary Kate West and Alyssa Klop, who
CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Jets head coach Amanda Smith believes the James Clemens High School Volleyball Team will have a winning season in Class 7A, Area 8 play. The Jets plan their strategy for the next serve.
Madison Living 23
is listed at 5-10. Of the 12 players listed on the varsity roster, seven are sophomores or freshmen. “The challenge will be getting the young ones up to speed,” Smith said. The Jets were ranked No. 7 in the state prior to the season’s start Aug. 27. Upcoming tournaments include the Spain Park Tournament Oct. 2-3 and the County Line Classic Oct. 10. Oct. 15, James Clemens will travel to Hoover, a perennial power in all sports, before the Area tournament against Bob Jones, Sparkman and Hazel Green Oct. 19. Leading them all the way will be Edmonds, who also competes on the school’s cross country team. “A lot of people overlook (Edmonds) because of her size,” Smith said. “High schools are getting faster.” Edmonds, according to MaxPreps, has accumulated a total of 299 kills and 169 total blocks in her career, along with 56 aces. The state tournament takes place the week of Oct. 28-29 and will feature the eight teams that advance to the Elite Eight. LEFT: All eyes are on the volleyball as the Jets slam a return over the net.
Subscribe today to May 201 4
Rachel Br Homes own
Craftsman exterior, slee contrast in k interior Mill Road home
Sam & Greg’
Pizzeria
Enjoy pizz a, stay for gelato close to hom e
Up Beat
Vigorous and rigorous, Zum class at the ba YMCA lure s an enthusiastic following
s
Rolling Stones! Spartan Ston es business rock finds solid but competi tive after expansion into Madison
For a 1 yea r subscriptio n
ONLY $20.41
facebook.com/madisonliving • 256.772.6677 Not valid outside the U.S. • Cover price $4.95 per issue • Allow 2-4 weeks for first issue
24 Madison Living
A summer of adventure and service
YMCA
WRITTEN BY HEART OF THE VALLEY YMCA | PHOTOGRAPH CONTRIBUTED
E
ight young people enjoyed YMCA Yellowstone Adventure and Service Program last summer. Five of the eight teens selected are Madison residents: Yanci Horton and Zoey Montague, Bob Jones High School; Raleigh Schmidt and Briana Long, James Clemens High School; Lainee Hamilton and McKenzie Sayne, East Limestone High School; Michael Demos, Huntsville High School; and Caya Perry, Lee High School. “Each participant was selected for the program after a long application process, and we were so impressed with the quality of leadership each teen brought to the group,” said Joey Barnard, Heart of the Valley YMCA Director of Camping Services. The group began its journey at YMCA Camp Cha-La-Kee in Guntersville, where
Teens from Madison and Huntsville were selected to participate in Yellowstone Adventure and Service, a two-week YMCA leadership development program incorporating a nature study of Yellowstone National Park and service learning project.
they participated in teambuilding activities before flying to Bozeman, Montana. For the next 11 days, the teens visited geysers, mud pots and hot springs and observed wildlife, participated in volunteer service and hiked,
guided by the Yellowstone Association. For more information about 2016 YAS, contact Barnard at joey.barnard@ ymcahuntsville.org or 256-705-9622, ext. 329.
Madison Living 25
EDUCATION
Robby Parker
Trading places
WRITTEN BY GREGG L. PARKER PHOTOGRAPHS BY JEN FOUTS-DETULLEO
N
ever at a loss for words, Robby Parker, now assistant superintendent for Madison City Schools, is opinionated about his work and
community. “I love and believe in Madison, Alabama – and our kids,” Parker said. “Students don’t care about the degrees you have or how many touchdowns or hits you had in high school or college,” Parker said. “They only care if you love them. I did. I still do love all the kids in Madison.” Parker accepted his new role in June 2015 after serving as principal at Bob Jones High School for 10 years, plus another 11 years there earlier as coach and history teacher and two as assistant principal. He also was Discovery Middle School’s principal for three years. 26 Madison Living
“I remember all of my kids. Since 1988, there are thousands. I remember something about all of them,” Parker said. Parker said he actually has the same job as he had at Bob Jones – in some ways. “The difference is I don’t have 2,000 kids to supervise each day. Decisions I make now are decisions that affect 10,000 kids versus 2,000 kids,” he said. Parker works closely with all principals and Central Office’s K-12 instructional staff. As a young man wanting to pursue athletics, Parker was especially close to his coaches. “I also remember my government/economics teacher, Nadine Sexton,” he said. “I doubt we had anything in common.” Yet, Parker thoroughly enjoyed Sexton’s class. One day, Sexton called Parker to the front of the class. The youngest senior, he was only 16 years old. Sexton asked him what he wanted to be in college. “I told her I didn’t know. She said I was special, CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: At the Central Office, Robby Parker works closely with members of the instructional staff, along with all principals. Anita Parker works at Discovery Middle School, where she was named staff member of the year in 2012. Robby Parker previously has worked as a classroom teacher, coach, an assistant principal and as principal.
Madison Living 27
and, when I talked, the rest of the kids paid attention, and that would serve me the rest of my life,” Parker said. “I wasn’t special and never noticed anyone paid attention.” “But no one had ever told me I was good at something cerebral. It was always athletics,” Parker said. “I had a new-found confidence in the academic setting because Nadine Sexton, a really good teacher, believed in me.” A veteran triathlete, Parker broke his hip in a 2014 bicycle accident; fortunately, he has completely recovered. “No limitations. The Lord sustained me through injury. I can run, bike and swim again.” “I still want to do a full Ironman one day. The Lord has blessed me with the ability to work out and have fun at 51,” Parker said. “I fully believe whether I’m at work or doing a triathlon, I’m to do it unto God.” He quoted 1 Corinthians10:31: “Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” His wife Anita works as a clerical aid at Discovery Middle School and was named staff member of the year in 2012. The Parkers married in 1987. Their sons are Tyson, 25, and Seth, 20. Tyson teaches math and coaches football at James Clemens High School, and Tyson’s wife Elizabeth (Cook) teaches kindergartners at Heritage Elementary School. Seth, a junior at the University of Alabama, is student trainer for the Crimson Tide football team. Robby and Anita Parker tailgate at UA games with
up to 100 people in large tents. “Once, I counted 80 former Bob Jones and James Clemens kids at the tent. We have just a general good time,” he said. The Parkers have attended Madison Freewill Baptist Church for 26 years. He earned a bachelor’s degree at Samford University, master’s degree at the University of North Alabama and graduated from UA’s Superintendent’s Academy. His honors include “Alabama PTA Principal of the Year” and Alabama ABOVE: Anita and Robby High School Athletic Association’s “Make a Parker have been married Difference Award.” since 1987.
Robby Parker • Parker accepted his new role as assistant superintendent for Madison City Schools in June 2015 after serving as principal at Bob Jones High School for 10 years, plus another 11 years there earlier as coach and history teacher and two as assistant principal. • A veteran triathlete, Parker broke his hip in a 2014 bicycle accident; fortunately, 28 Madison Living
he has completely recovered. • He earned a bachelor’s degree at Samford University, master’s degree at the University of North Alabama and graduated from UA’s Superintendent’s Academy. • His honors include “Alabama PTA Principal of the Year” and Alabama High School Athletic Association’s “Make a Difference Award.”
Best of the best Madison City Schools welcome Robby Parker
EDUCATION
B
y now you know was not the great responsibility Robby Parker is but the thought of leaving my Bob the new assistant Jones kids. I felt a tremendous superintendent for sense of guilt and sadness leaving Madison City Schools. them. Being with kids every The Board couldn’t have picked school day for 27 years has been a a better leader. As one person joy. I never, in 27 years, had a bad Dr. Dee posted about his hiring, he will day. Fowler be “the best dad-gum assistant As I pondered the decision in superintendent.” early June, the Lord laid it on my Robby Parker was principal at Bob Jones heart that instead of 2,000 kids, I would High School for 10 years, principal at now have 10,000 kids. That gave me a Discovery Middle, a teacher, coach, a key great sense of peace and excitement. planner in the creation of James Clemens Today, I know I made the right decision High School and so much more. as I go into schools every day and see all Mr. Parker shared these thoughts: 10,000 kids in Madison and the special I’m very excited in my new role. It’s work that they and our teachers are a position that would be enviable to doing. I admit I’m biased, but Madison anyone in education, but I labored on City kids and its schools are the best the thought of moving into it. The reason in the state! I can’t wait to see many
Robby Parker
of you at PTA meetings, Friday night football games and other exciting events in our schools. I’m seeing your kids in classrooms each day, and I promise you they are awesome – all 10,000 of them. Please follow me on twitter @rparker47. I will tweet each day from a different school or just some great thing I hear about your kids.
Open now, through the holidays!
Open the door to their future
“Science Fiction, Science Future” is an interactive adventure that demonstrates such future technologies as robotics, holograms, augmented reality and invisibility.
Call (256) 837-3400 or visit rocketcenter.com for more information.
RocketCenterUSA
This exhibition is created by Scitech Discovery Centre, Perth, Australia, and produced by Imagine Exhibitions Inc.
Madison Living 29
HEALTH
Madison Hospital Breast Center started using 3D mammography, or tomosynthesis, in June 2015.
WRITTEN BY NICK SELLERS PHOTOGRAPHS BY JEN FOUTS-DETULLEO
Technological O
advances Madison Hospital offers breast cancer screenings, awareness
30 Madison Living
ctober is breast cancer awareness month, and Madison Hospital’s recent technological advancements and upcoming events support the area through the month while bringing awareness through various campaigns. The campus off of Highway 72 near Balch Road recently made headlines in June when it received and began operating 3D mammography, officially called tomosynthesis, at its Breast Center. Madison Hospital landed the screening machines from the proceeds of the Liz Hurley Ribbon Run, the annual run that in 2015 will take place Oct. 17. The 2014 run, with the help of 6,600 runners, raised enough money to purchase two digital tomosynthesis machines for the Madison Hospital Breast Center, which opened in December 2012. “The greatest benefit (of the digital tomosynthesis machines) that has been demonstrated is you can see through the dense breast tissue,” said Jennifer
Brewington, director of Outpatient Services for Women and Children at Huntsville Hospital. The Breast Center for Madison Hospital, located at 8337 Highway 72 on the second floor of the Progress Bank building, offers mammograms, biopsies and MRIs. Actual treatment of breast cancer is offered at the Huntsville Hospital campus in downtown Huntsville’s medical district. “For the last five years, they have wanted sort of a center like this in Madison,” Brewington said of the Breast Center. As the Liz Hurley Ribbon Run continues annually, Brewington said the ambition is to eventually replace all conventional breast-cancer screening machines with the digital tomosynthesis technology. In 2015 will be the run’s 12th year. The run, which occurs in Huntsville, was created “in honor of local news anchor and breast cancer survivor, Liz Hurley,” according to the Huntsville Hospital Foundation website. To promote Madison Hospital’s efforts in this year’s run, Madison Hospital is holding a new event – Lucky Ducky Pink Ribbon President’s Pick. For the President’s Pick, Madison Hospital
In proximity to Madison Hospital, the Breast Center is located at 8337 Highway 72 on the second floor of the Progress Bank building.
Madison THE
Madison Living 31
President Mary Lynne Wright will paddle out into the pond in front of the hospital and fetch pink rubber ducks. The ducks can be purchased by anyone wishing to help Madison Hospital achieve its goal of raising $2,500 for its Liz Hurley Ribbon Run team, the Madison Hospital Mamminions. The President’s Pick is scheduled for Oct. 15. “Those with their numbered duck pulled from the pond could win gift certificates to local retailers, restaurants, salons and more,” said Pamela Sparks, manager of media and public relations for Huntsville Hospital. “One duck can be purchased 32 Madison Living
for $5 or six for $25.” The Liz Hurley Ribbon Run will continue to raise funds for breast cancer research – which means, in the case of the Madison Hospital’s Breast Center, obtaining more digital tomosynthesis machines. “Ultimately we would like to replace every (current screening machine) with tomosynthesis,” Brewington said. The Madison Hospital Breast Center can be reached at 256-265-5953. To find out more about the Liz Hurley Run, visit lizhurleyribbonrun.org.
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The Breast Center boasts state-of-the-art equipment. “Brasterpieces” (bra masterpieces) help raise funds for breast cancer research. The Lucky Ducky Pink Ribbon President’s Pick is a new fundraiser this year. The hospital purchased screening machines from proceeds of the Liz Hurley Ribbon Run.
Madison Living 33
Madison Chamber of Commerce Newsletter
The Madison Chamber of Commerce celebrates ribbon cuttings, after hours events and groundbreaking ceremonies. Pictured at the groundbreaking for Placemakers Oakland Spring, LLC, are Mayor Troy Trulock and developer Todd Slyman.
Ribbon Cutting and Grand Re-Opening – Dirt Cheap.
Picasso’s Grill Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting.
Ribbon Cutting and Open House – Cellar Door.
Pictured at the Business After Hours hosted by IBERIABANK is Kevin Bush.
Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting – On The Spot.
34 Madison Living
Madison Chamber of Commerce Newsletter
Business After Hours hosted by IBERIABANK. Pictured at the Business After Hours hosted by Amanda Howard Real Estate are: Amanda Real Estate listing partner Claire Lee; MCC Director Elaine Ballew; and president of Amanda Howard Real Estate, Amanda Howard.
Ribbon Cutting and Open House – Somerset at Madison Apartment Homes.
Business After Hours hosted by Amanda Howard Real Estate.
Groundbreaking Ceremony for Placemakers Oakland Springs, LLC, with Todd Slyman.
Historic downtown Madison.
Pictured at the Business After Hours hosted by IBERIABANK is IBERIABANK Branch Manager Kimberly Hardee with Jeremy Van Winkle to her right and Charley Armstrong.
Madison Living 35
Parrots of the Caribbean
1
Rotary Club of Madison hosts annual bash at Insanity Skate Park. 1. From left, Kellen Squires, Patrick Sanders and Michael St. Peter 2. Deborah and Giles McDaniel 3. Jen and Glenn Detulleo 4. From left, Kathy Scott, Patrick Scott and Pat Cross 5. Tim McMicken, at left, with Scott Carden 6. Steve and Jessica Middlebrooks
2
7. Melissa and Darrell Doucette
3
8. Paula Cushman, at left, with Karen Morris
PHOTOGRAPHS BY NICK SELLERS
4
6
36 Madison Living
5
7
8
9
10
9. Olga and David Lee 10. Monica and Larry Smith 11. From left, Emily McIntosh, Kevin Cedena and Debbie Overcash 12. Markelda Umfleet, at left, with Sue Bartlow 13. From left, Cynthia Curtis, Clinton Orr and Sandra Cepeda 14. Mark Stiner, at left, with Kerry Straub 15. From left, Samantha Brinkley, Anthony Brinkley and Vicki Morris
11
12
14
13
15
Madison Living 37
Marketplace Madison Living • 256.772.6677
Drivers: Home Nightly. Excellent Money. Full Benefit Package. New Equipment. Family Work Environment. CDL-A 1yrs exp. Jay: 256-309-7520. Mon.-Fri. 8-5 Company Drivers and Owner Operators Home at least once a wk. Exc benefits, pay. Must have Class A CDL w Hazmat & Tanker endorsements, 2 yrs OTR exp, good safety record. 800-338-2717 JOBS IN ALABAMA!! AIDT assists employers throughout AL by identifying qualified applicants by recruitment, screening & training services. Visit www.aidt.edu/jobs for latest jobs & training! Caregivers & Nurses ALWAYS THERE IN-HOME CARE Immediate need, Flexible hours, Benefits available. Call for more information 256-539-1400 www.alwaysthereinc.com American Proteins, Inc. Hiring Drivers Home Daily, Great benefits package (including: health/ dental/ vision insurance), paid vacation and holidays, quarterly safety bonus, 401K retirement plan. Need Class A CDL with tanker endorsement, one year verifiable driving experience. Contact Jamie Sewell at 256-970-6133 or Ronnie Demonia 256-970-6109. EOE ANN’S ALTERATIONS 600 Limestone Street, Suite #6 Hartselle, AL. 256-773-4213 CAGLE SOD FARM 419 Hybrid Bermuda $1.35 per square yard, Meyers Zoysia $2.50 per square yard, Empire Zoysia $3.00 per square yard. Delivery available. 662-365-3152 www.caglesod.com CARRY TRANSIT Decatur, Alabama Now hiring DRIVERS * Good Pay * Excellent Benefits & Home Time * 18 Months OTR exp. * Class A CDL with Tanker Endorsement. Apply on Line@ CarryTransit.com
DEPENDABLE DOZER & DIRT 256-332-4854 Full Time Receptionist needed for medical office. Experience in the medical field is a plus. Please fax resumes to 256-331-2096 or e-mail to hwr8480@gmail.com Dunn Building Company has immediate openings in the Decatur area for Trackhoe and Backhoe Operators, Form Carpenters, Concrete Finishers, Rodbusters and Laborers. Must have minimum 3 years experience and be able to pass a drug test. Benefits included BCBS insurance, Aetna Life and Disability insurances, Vacation, Holidays and 401k. Download an application from: www.dunnbuildingcompany.com and fax to 205-510-0301 or email to spricedunnbuildingcompany.com EOE M/F/Disabled/Veterans HUGHES NET • Gen4 High-Speed Satellite Internet Is Available Where You Live! FREE Standard Installation. Limited Time Offer! Ask about FREE router! Call 800-266-4409 www.pbsinternet.com NOW HIRING Elder Care Of North Alabama is in need of caregivers in the Hartselle and Decatur area.(256) 351-6565 or apply online: www.eldercareofnorthalabama. com Now Hiring! Production WorkersCDL Drivers-Food Service-General Labor-HVAC-Machine OperatorsForklift Operators-Custodians: $7.25 - $17.00 Decatur: 256-351-1183 Cullman: 256-739-2024 Huntsville: 256-532-0599 Welder Training Coming Soon! Short Term Licensing. Call for Details 866-432-0430. ESDschool.com
THE MEADOWS Luxury Apartments. Ground floor patio apts., Upgraded Appliances, Ceramic Tile, Ceiling Fans, Individual Alarm Systems & More. 1540 Lawrence St. East, Russellville. 256-398-8818
Concert Promotions! Weekly Pay! Hiring Full-time & Part-time Sales & Clerical, Management & Hourly Employees. Requires Positive Attitude, Respectful Personality. NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED 256-964-7691 Call Today/Start Tomorrow!
Looking for a home? Need help with financing? Call your neighbors down the street at Davis Realty. We can help you get a great rate! Call Willodean 256-762-5671. Davis Realty & Assoc. Inc. 115 N. Jackson Ave., Russellville, AL. 256-332-9920
First South Farm Credit Poultry House Financing for: • New Construction • Refinancing farms • Expansion • Updating facilities Muscle Shoals 256-381-0721, Moulton 256-974-1124 firstsouthpoultry.com Equal Housing Lender
Kioti CK30 HST 4x4, 156 hours, R4 tires, w/ Kioti loader and quick-attach bucket: $13,900 John Deere 4300 12x12 Shuttle Shift, R4 tires w/ John Deere loader bucket: $12,900 256-565-8695 (no txt) HOMES FOR SALE Financing Available (wac) Low Down Payments Sheffield, Hackleburg, Town Creek, Courtland, Moulton & Falkville Call Matt 1-855-847-6808 Use Happy Jack Kennel Dip II as area spray for stable flies, fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. Do NOT use on cats! Morgan Farmer’s Co-op 256-773-6832 www.kennelvax.com • Mixed hay $5.00 per bale • $4.50 per bale for 100+bales Located In West Point Call 256-734-4202 We Buy Unwanted Appliances! We Pick Up Free Of Charge! We also do appliance repair and consignment. Also Riding Lawn Mowers! Hallmark Appliance Repair 256-773-1192 Come Home to Holiday Plaza Apartments (Behind Foodland) Equal Housing Opportunity 256-332-2960 WEEKEND BONUS OPPORTUNITY AVAILABLE! Do You Have the Heart of a Caregiver? Home Instead Senior Care Wants YOU to Join Our Team of Qualified CAREGivers/CNAs! Change the Lives of Seniors While Earning Competitive Pay, Flexible Hours, and Weekend Bonus Opportunities. Online Application Available: www.homeinstead.com/250 Call About an Interview Today! 256-505-3100. Maintenance Staff Wanted General Maintenance to support real estate management services. Huntsville Jetplex area. Good pay. Regular hours. Benefits. email resume to charleneg_ips@bellsouth.net or fax to 256-461-7427 THE MORTGAGE OUTLET, INC. • Offering Purchase/Refinances w/CREDIT SCORES 580+ • 100% CashOut & Purchase Programs • FHA Streamline–No Appraisal/ Closing Cost • FHA/CONVENTIONAL/USDA/VA Call Glenda Popwell 205-755-4577 or 1-800-365-9016 GJP@moneyoutlet.com NMLS #7371/AL#50594
KDC Properties, Inc. 256-355-9090. P.O. Box 987, Decatur, AL 35602. kdcpropertiesinc.com J. Wesley Cain, AL #286; TN #6499 We Buy ATVs Motorcycles & Utility Vehicles Motorsports Superstore 888-880-2277. Hamilton, AL SPRING CLEAN-UP. Need a Dumpster? Call 205-893-7223 DRIVERS WANTED • Experienced Class A CDL Drivers • Safe & Clean Driving Record Required • Competitive Salary Package Call (205) 935-8668 Payroll Services, LLC is NOW HIRING: • Production/Manufacturing • Restaurant Cook & Hostess • Warehouse • Cleaning/restoration (Jasper) • Manufacturing clean-up crew • Construction day-labor Apply at: 1637 Townsquare SW, Cullman. PRESBYTERIAN TOWERS Senior Community. 1st Month’s Rent Free! Free WiFi. CALL 256-350-3323 Behind Colonial Mall Quality Correctional Health Care has several nursing opportunities in Decatur and Moulton. For more information and to apply, please visit http://qchcweb.applicantpro. com. NOW HIRING - Direct Caregivers, LPNs, Admin Team Members & Drivers. Free CPR, 1st Aid & TB screen with 2 forms of ID & HS Diploma/GED. Restore Care • restorecareinc.com Salvation Army Bi-Weekly Auction • 1401 FL Shuttlesworth Dr, Bham. Used electronics, furniture, equipment, bric-a-brac. Fee $4-$5. Public welcome! Call for details: (205) 252-8151 Smith Motors Two locations on Hwy 31, Decatur Lot #1 256-350-9938 Lot #2 256-350-9937 smithmotorsautosales.com Now Hiring Night Shift LPN’s • Apply online at: www.southernhealthpartners. com CLERICAL General office, accounting, and customer service. Word
& Excel required. Call for an appointment. SOUTHERN STAFFING 256-353-2924 SURVEILLANCE CAMERA MONITORED 24 HOURS A DAY STORAGE BUILDINGS For Rent, All Sizes. Russellville, AL. We Accept Credit Cards. Call Jerry 256-332-9253 or 256-412-5392 Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Delivery Driver - CDL A Decatur, AL Local delivery: touchfreight. M-F, 12 p.m.-9 p.m., $14 hourly with overtime. 1 yr. exp. clean MVR & pass Phy/DS.Contact Rick @ 855-890-7133 TED MILLS Heating & A/C Service & Change out $65 Summer Service. Free Estimates. 256-412-5408 Thompson Industrial Services COME JOIN OUR TEAM! Immediate openings for TECHNICIANS/OPERATORS Operates extremely high pressured waterblast units and industrial vacuum units. We work in paper/pulpmills, steel mills, refineries, nuclear plants, etc. Must have valid driver license (CDL a plus); work flexible hours (on call 24/7), travel, lift 50 lbs hoses; pass drug tests. Complete application online at www.thompsonindustrialservices. com. EOE Town Hill Mini Storage 160 Units. Vacancies. All Sizes 256-332-9928 MANUFACTURED HOMES MOBILE HOMES with land. Ready to move in. Owner financing with approved credit. 3 bdrm., 2 bath. No renters. 1-205-289-8899 VMFhomes.com VEST U-PICK IT Fresh Seasonal Fruits & Veggies U-Pick or We Pick. Eva, AL 256-796-2070 Become a Dental Asst. in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website capstonedentalassisting.com or call (205) 561-8118 and get your career started! Full Time & PRN Positions Available for LPNs & RNs 12 hour shifts with every other weekend off! Rewarding career. Excellent Healthcare Benefits. 401K. Discounted Gym Membership (Single & Family). EOE. Apply in person! Woodland Village Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center, 1900 Olive St. SW, Cullman, AL 35056. 256-739-1430
Madison Living 39