The Madison Record - March 6, 2023

EDITORIAL

Alabama newspapers

Recent changes in the newspaper landscape in Alabama have us wanting to share some good news about newspapers. Alabama newspapers are alive and printing. Page 5A

LIVING

Bob Jones Food Pack to feed 50,000 people

By GREGG PARKER gregg@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – An upcoming endeavor at Bob Jones High School will result in 50,000 hungry people receiving a decent meal.

The 2023 Bob Jones Food Pack is a school-wide effort for students to pack 50,000 meals for in-need individuals in the Madison vicinity.

Murder mystery

Huntsville Botanical Garden (HBG) will unveil its newly renovated Arbor to the public when it becomes the backdrop for a new interactive event. Page 6A

ONLINE

“We will be teaming up with Operation Inasmuch, a non-profit service organization (founded by my grandfather), to make this event a huge success,” Drew Crocker said.

Crocker is SGA Junior Class President and promoting the Food Back with Vice President Neha Sharma.

Bob Jones Junior Class will host

the event on April 29.

“We’re asking for your support in donations of any amount of money to help fund this enormous project; it will cost $7,500,” Crocker said.

A Madison native, Crocker takes pride in living and receiving his education in his hometown. “One major thing I’ve noticed is this community’s love of serving. Service runs deep with Madison citizens. The school system is a large part of that,” Crocker said.

“Andrew Crocker is an amazing young man who came to me with this incredible program before the school year ended last year. He radiates kindness,” SGA Junior Sponsor Nichole Murray said. A

National Board Certified Teacher, she teaches pre-advanced placement English 10 and AP language.

The Food Pack provides meals to prepare at home to benefit greater Madison families and Bob Jones.

“Many people are dealing with economic strains, and this would be a way to help lift them up,” Murray said.

“The process has shown students what goes into such an ambitious campaign and pushed them to use their critical thinking skills.

Drew has worked on this plan with his grandfather since last May,” Murray said.

“By reaching out to local businesses for donations to fund the

See FOOD PACK Page 2A

By JOHN FEW john@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – Madison

Forward, the citizens group that submitted a petition earlier this month to hold a special election in Madison, issued a statement last week after their petition was approved by the Probate judges of Madison and Limestone counties. The group has been backing the city’s proposed change in local government structure, replacing the current system of having an elected mayor running the operations of the city, with a council-appointed manager instead.

To move forward with the proposal, a petition calling for a special election on the issue needed about 900 certified signatures of registered city voters and be submitted to the Probate judges in the counties where the Madison city limits are located. Madison Forward worked to collect those signatures and submitted the petition.

Mayor Paul Finley, who has expressed support for the change, said at last Monday’s city council meeting the election is expected to take place in early May. He announced a date will be set and announced at the March 13 city council meeting.

“This next step towards a special election to allow the citizens of Madison to vote on this initiative has been a long time coming.

Two separate citizen-led committees in 2015 and 2021 unanimously recommended that Madison move forward to a council-manager form of government. These reports can be found on the city of Madison website,” stated Jim Ross, Madison Forward co-chair.

The most recent push for the city manager system has been under consideration since

appointed the Madison Governance Transition Committee that Ross chaired in August of 2021 to investigate the

of the system for

The committee produced results in January of 2022, unanimously in favor of the city manager system.

See PETITION Page 3A

Vice President Neha Sharma and President Drew Crocker with SGA Junior Class are organizing and motivating volunteers for a Food Pack of 50,000 meals at Bob Jones High School. The junior class is partnering with Operation Inasmuch.

Finley

fitness

Madison.

Patriot Players

Bob Jones theater students, the Patriot Players, represented the state at Southeastern Theatre Conference, or SETC, in Lexington, Ky. last week.

Page 3A

STORM DAMAGE - Friday’s storms caused widespread damage and power outages through Madison and Limestone counties. Huntsville Utilities said Monday that crews worked throughout the weekend to get the 39,000 affected customers back online. The Madison City Hal remained closed Monday as crews worked to get power back on there. The storm included wind gusts as high as 80 mph. More than 200 reports of damage were received by the National Weather Service office in Huntsville. The already saturated ground — from a series of storms on Wednesday — coupled with the strong and sustained winds created optimal conditions for trees and power lines to fall. A Huntsville man as killed after a tree fell on him on after the storm Friday. A spokesperson for the Huntsville Police Department identified the man as William Gray, 63. He was killed while picking up debris from his lawn on Hillwood Drive around 1:23 p.m. The photos above show fallen trees across Slaughter Road in Madison at the intersection of Zierdt and 6th Street in Triana.

“If you want to know what a man’s like, take a good look at how he treats his inferiors, not his equals.” - J.K. Rowling

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Food Pack

Continued from page 1A project and encouraging school clubs to help pack on April 29, Drew’s passion for this project shows how important helping people is to this young man. I love that he is partnering with so many — to leave a positive mark on the school and community,” Murray said.

Residents don’t imagine their peers as subject to poverty and homelessness.

However, Crocker “has met many students whose families are struggling financially and unsure where their next meal will come from. Organizations like Student Government enable students to make a difference, especially among those in need.”

“I’m confident that this food packing will (give) substantial benefit to these families. A food pack needs an organization –church, non-profit, business – to sponsor an event and use Operation Inasmuch to stage it,” Crocker said.

The partnership with Operation Inasmuch will make the event successful.

“Over 200 students will participate over a span of four hours. Students will pack non-perishable food

items, such as rice, beans, mac and cheese, dehydrated tomato sauce, oatmeal and soup,” Crocker said.

Organizers will distribute donations to local food pantries. “The materials for this event are expensive, which is why we’re reaching out to local individuals for support. I would like to personally thank you in advance for your consideration,” Crocker said.

All donations are tax-deductible. Donors will receive a receipt from Operation Inasmuch and can have their names appear on a donors’ banner at the event.

“To secure the items needed, we’re asking for these gifts by April 1. Operation Inasmuch and I are excited about what this opportunity could do for individuals in our community,” Crocker said.

Donors can mail monetary gifts to Operation Inasmuch Inc., P.O. Box 2523, Knoxville, TN 37901, or donate online at operationinasmuch.org/events. For questions, email Operation Inasmuch coordinator Bobbie Jo Mitchell at bobbie@operationinasmuch.org.

Vehicle Title Problem? We have a Solution!

Heritage Elementary’s greenpower team received a generous donation today from the Schools Foundation. The money, made possible through support from the PPG Aerospace Foundation, will be used to replace the school’s aging Goblin Car for greenpower events. Receiving the check from Schools Foundation executive director Stephanie Kelley on behalf of the Heritage Racing Rams is head sponsor and 4th grade teacher Morganne Cieslak, (right in photo). Also pictured are 5th grade teacher Tyler Stevens and gifted teacher Stayce Lester.

PATRIOT PLAYERS - Bob Jones theater students, the Patriot Players, represented the state at Southeastern Theatre Conference, or SETC, in Lexington, Ky. last week. Judges at the state-level Walter Trumbauer Theatre Festival in December selected Bob Jones High School to represent Alabama. The honor came after Bob Jones’ cast and crew performed “Opening Night for the Diva” for their one-act play in the state-level competition against high schools from across the state. “What a fun night!” a Facebook post from the Patriot Players stated in reference to the final event of the SETC. “At the awards ceremony, we were given a trophy for being a representative of Alabama, and then received two all-star cast members (Evan Willis and Mikala Calhoun), as well as two other big awards: Best Costumes and Outstanding Technical Excellence.” The students are led by Bob Jones drama teacher and director Mary Davis. She handles the on-stage ensemble of actors, while her colleague Jesse Tilton mentors the ‘techies’ or technical crew. Congratulations to the Bob Jones Patriot Players and thank you for representing Madison and the state of Alabama so well.

Madison City Council

Special election, Toyota Field success dominate city council meeting

By MARIA RAKOCZY news@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON - The issue of the city manager proposal was the center of attention at last week’s Madison City Council meeting. A petition submitted by citizen’s group, Madison Forward, seeking a special election has officially been approved by Madison County and Limestone County Probate judges. The group is promoting the city’s proposed plan to move to city manager-council form of government instead of the current mayor-council form. To do so, a majority of voters must approve the transition.

Madison Mayor Paul Finley said a special election will be set for early May. He will be announce the date at the March 13 city council meeting. If the proposal passes, the change will take effect in 2025.

In light of the petition’s approval, several citizens during the public comments portion of the meeting voiced their concerns surrounding the ethics of the council’s relationship with Madison Forward and the effectiveness of the city manager form of government for Madison.

One Madison resident, Margi Daly stated, “[The petition] doesn’t represent citizens.” Several other citizens took to the podium to articulate similar outlooks, and others asked for transparency and increased communication from the city council in the time leading up the special election.

Daly has accused Dr. Terri Johnson’s role with Madison Forward as being inappropriate since she works for a state university. Johnson is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Mathematics at UAH and serves as the co-chair of Madison Forward.

Continued from page 1A

“A change in the form of government for Madison can only be made by a majority of registered voters in the city.” Dr. Terri Johnson, Madison Forward cochair, added. She served on the Madison Board of Education from 2007-2017 and as board president from 2015-2017. Johnson also co-chaired the city’s Growth Impact Committee in 2018, and was appointed to the city’s planning commission in 2019.

Under a council-manager format, Madison would be redrawn into six districts, with the mayor elected at-large and serving as the seventh vote. The mayor would also serve as the president of the city council. The city manager would oversee day-to-day operations. The mayor would mostly represent the city in public events and in meetings with neighboring cities.

If approved by the voters, the new form of city government would officially be in place in November of 2025.

The proposal has been met with some opposition. Another citizens group, MC Watchdogs led by Margi Daily recently filed a lawsuit against the Madison Forward seeking to stop the petition from being approved on the grounds that signatures for the petition were improperly obtained. Another group has also formed in response to the initiative, “Don’t Mess with Madison PAC”. They are claiming the move to a council-manager form of government disenfranchises voters by depriving voters the opportunity to vote for a leader of the administrative branch of the city.

According to a press release issued by Madison Forward, they believe moving to a city manager type of system will

Johnson responded by defending her involvement with Madison Forward and the group’s relationship with the city council. Quoting Alabama code on public employees, she stated, “All persons in the employment of any city, county, or state shall have the right to publicly support issues of public welfare, circulate petitions calling for or in support of referendums and contribute freely to those of his or her own choosing.”

Johnson is a long-time community volunteer. She served on the Madison Board of Education from 2007-2017 and as the school board’s president from 2015-2017. She also co-chaired the school district’s Growth Impact Committee in 2018, and was appointed to the city’s planning commission in 2019. Addressing the issues of trans-

help the city manage continued growth by placing a credentialed city management professional in charge of daily operations of a rapidly growing city. “The city manager is tasked with executing the collective policy, vision and strategy of the mayor and city council.”

Those against the change have said there is no guarantee the council will hire a professionally trained city manager. They have also expressed concerns at prior city council meetings with placing too much power into the hands of the city council. The council currently appoints the city’s school board members, who in turn hires the superintendent. Placing them in charge of hiring and overseeing the city manager too would mean the only elected city officials will be the city council. They say even though there will still be a mayor, in reality he will be an “at-large” council member.

Madison Forward boasts that the council-manager form of government has proven effective in other cities in Alabama, including Vestavia Hills, Mountain Brook, Anniston and Auburn.

They say the change is needed to bring stability to the separate functions of a city continuing to experience tremendous growth. Having department heads in place under an overall city manager that is appointed rather than elected would remove the threat of change every time a new mayor is elected, they say, and give the city a better chance at realizing long-term goals without the interference of politics.

It was announced last month the estimated salary of a city manager would be around $184,000.

F l o o r i n g S a l e Spr ing

The Rocket City Trash Pandas have partnered with Kissel Entertainment for the fourth annual Big Ol’ Ballpark Fair, taking place in the Toyota Field parking lot from Friday, March 10, through Sunday, March 19. Go to www. trashpanadasbaseball.com for more information.

MARDI GRAS FUN - Madison City Senior Center recently had a blast at their annual Mardi Gras Party sponsored by Rotary Club of Madison. Rotary Club members organized one of the biggest highlights of the year for the center’s members. The master of ceremonies for the event was former state senator Bill Holtzclaw. A special congratulations to Theresa and Olish who were named King & Queen of MSC Mardi Gras (above).

State’s Big 10 mayors announce legislative agenda for new session

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

MONTGOMERY - The Alabama Big 10 Mayors today released their legislative agenda for the 2023 legislative session. The Mayors’ collective priorities include legislation to grow Alabama’s economy and to improve public safety.

“Policy decisions made in Montgomery have a direct impact on our cities. And with nearly three out of four Alabamians living either in or around our state’s 10 biggest cities, legislation that creates jobs and improves public safety in our communities benefits the vast majority of Alabamians,” said the Alabama Big 10 Mayors.

“That’s why we have joined together to collectively advocate for important, common-sense legislation that will make our state a better place to live, work and raise a family. We look forward to working with our state’s dedicated elected lawmakers to make Alabama a safer, more prosperous state.”

The Alabama Big 10 Mayors include Auburn Mayor Ron Anders, Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin, Decatur Mayor Tab Bowling, Dothan Mayor Mark Saliba, Hoover

Mayor Frank Brocato, Huntsville

Mayor Tommy Battle, Madison

Mayor Paul Finley, Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson, Montgomery

Mayor Steven Reed and Tuscaloosa

Mayor Walt Maddox.

In addition to their collective legislative priorities, each city may also pursue additional goals in this and future legislative sessions.

Below are highlights of key leg-

islative priorities for the Alabama Big 10 Mayors for the 2023 legislative session:

Growing Alabama’s Economy

Renew and Expand the Alabama Jobs Act and the Growing Alabama Act

The Alabama Big 10 Mayors support the reauthorization and accompanying expansion of the Alabama Jobs Act and the Growing Alabama Act. The incentives programs established by these bills are critical to keeping Alabama’s economy globally competitive as we work to attract new businesses and new jobs to our communities.

Increase Online Sales Tax Transparency

The Alabama Big 10 Mayors support efforts to make online sales tax distribution data from the State available publicly. If Alabamians are required to pay taxes on items purchased on the internet, they deserve the right to know where their tax dollars are going.

Revitalizing Neighborhoods and Reducing Blight Through Clearing Red Tape

The Alabama Big 10 Mayors support legislation that would slash unnecessary, burdensome red tape to allow local governments and land bank authorities to take control of vacant, abandoned, and tax-delinquent properties and address them in a way that would then allow those previously unusable properties to contribute to and improve communities in Alabama cities.

HPCAC to host March 14 public forum on interacting with police

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

tend this forum to learn more about how to safely and calmly engage during an interaction.”

Keeping Alabamians Safe Implement State Penalties on Illegal Devices to Protect Law Enforcement and Keep Our Communities Safe

The Alabama Big 10 Mayors supports legislation that would enable more expedient prosecution of unlicensed persons found to be in possession of any “trigger activator” device, such as a “Glock switch.”

These devices, which are federally illegal and not authorized by gun manufacturers, effectively turn a semi-automatic firearm into a fully automatic firearm. These devices increase the number of rounds fired per second and decrease the amount of control one has over the firearm, increasing risks to bystanders and law enforcement.

New state legislation would allow state and local law enforcement the ability to address this growing crime problem and take offenders off the street, without waiting on the federal government’s lengthy indictment process.

Ban “Exhibition Driving”

The Alabama Big 10 Mayors support legislation that prohibits and provides criminal penalties for “exhibition driving” – which is when a driver purposefully drives in a manner to intentionally create unnecessary engine noise, tire skid, burnouts, and other dangerous and damaging driving techniques. This is a growing problem across Alabama cities that creates a public safety hazard for pedestrians and other drivers while draining limited law enforcement resources.

Smithsonian exhibition on implicit bias coming to Huntsville, HudsonAlpha in April

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

HUNTSVILLE - The City of Huntsville announced it will host

“The Bias Inside Us” from April 24 through May 20, at the HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology (601 Genome Way, Huntsville, AL 35806).

“The Bias Inside Us” is a traveling exhibition that will discuss the social science and psychology of implicit bias, the impact of this bias and what people can do about it. Through compelling images, handson interactives and powerful testimonials and videos, the exhibition unpacks and demystifies the concept of bias. The community engagement project is part of the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES), which features six sections: Introduction, The Science of Bias, Bias in Real Life, Serious Consequences – Bias is All Around Us, #RetrainYourBrain and Personal Reflection.

Visiting “The Bias Inside Us” is free. This appearance marks the first time the exhibition will visit the state of Alabama. Visitors will participate in a self-guided tour exploring the foundational blocks of bias, the psychology of how bias forms and how it influences behaviors both consciously and unconsciously. The exhibit will be open weekdays from 10 a.m. till 5 p.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m. till 4 p.m. Each Tuesday, the exhibit will remain open until 7 p.m. Groups of 20 or more are encouraged to preregister at hudsonalpha.org/biasinsideus.

“The City of Huntsville is excited to help host ‘The Bias Inside Us,’ a Smithsonian exhibition that will spark thoughtful conversations that inspire and challenge us to build a better community and world,” said Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle.

“As the largest municipality in Alabama and the U.S. News and World Report’s #1 City in the United States to live in, we are fortunate to be the first in the state to host this traveling exhibit. We are hopeful our community will embrace the exhibition and

use the experience to help us create a more just, equitable city.”

Interactive elements will display how implicit and explicit bias shows up in the world and how bias influences systems and policies that have consequences for many people and communities. Among the videos in the exhibition is a series that features eight voices from diverse perspectives sharing personal experiences with bias.

“We’re thrilled to partner with the City to host the Bias Inside Us exhibition as an opportunity for the Huntsville community to engage in meaningful dialogue around the science and history of bias,” said Dr. Neil Lamb, HudsonAlpha president.

“We invite everyone to visit our campus in Cummings Research Park and take advantage of this unique Smithsonian experience.”

The exhibition also features Spanish photographer Angélica Dass’ Humanae project, which reflects on the color of skin that challenges the concept of race. In this work, Dass documents humanity’s true colors through portraits, rather than the labels “white,” “red,” “black” and “yellow.”

“Bias is part of being human,” said Myriam Springuel, director of SITES and Smithsonian Affiliations.

“Our goal through ‘The Bias Inside Us’ is to help individuals understand and counter their implicit bias and help communities thrive through conversation and greater understanding.”

“The Bias Inside Us” draws from the scientific research and educational work by psychologists Mahzarin R. Banaji of Harvard Univer-

sity and Anthony G. Greenwald, professor emeritus at the University of Washington. They defined the term “implicit bias” through their work on unconscious and conscious mental processes.

Major support for “The Bias Inside Us” is provided by the Otto Bremer Trust. Meta is the local sponsor of the exhibition. Additional support is provided by Acton Family Giving, Anonymous donors, The Beverly Foundation, Steve and Sheri Lear, Target, the Margaret A. Cargill Foundation Fund of the Minneapolis Foundation, Thomson Reuters, Alabama Power Foundation, Allianz of America, Valerie E. and William A. Anders, Atlanta Gas Light Foundation, Julie and David Burton, the Dreier Family, Lennart Ehn and Ginger Lew, Expedia, Trevor and Melissa Fetter, the Roger S. Firestone Foundation, Brenda J. Gaines, Myra Hart and Kent Hewitt, Charlie and Nancy Hogan, Judy and Bob Huret, Dr. Christine C. Jenkins and Mr. Pierre A. France, KNOCK, inc., Sarah Lawer and Frank Guanco, Leaders Forum, Kathleen Mason, Elyse Rabinowitz and Jim Porter, Dr. Philip S. and Alice Hoolihan Randall, Gloria del C. Rodriguez, the Family of Leona Roen, and Naoma Tate.

“The Bias Inside Us” is based on an original concept developed by Tolerance in Motion: Steve Lear, Laura Zelle and Elyse Rabinowitz, founders; Ellen Glatstein, Laura Lipshutz, Alice Randall, Joanne Jones-Rizzi and Susan Shapiro, directors; Don Shelby, founding advisor; and the Jewish Community Relations Council of Minnesota and the Dakotas, Steve Hunegs, executive director.

SITES has been sharing the wealth of Smithsonian collections and research programs with millions of people outside Washington, D.C., for more than 70 years. SITES connects Americans to their shared cultural heritage through a wide range of exhibitions about art, science, and history, which are shown wherever people live, work and play. For exhibit description and tour schedules, visit sites.si.edu.

HUNTSVILLE - Huntsville Police want to ensure our citizens know how to interact with a police officer if they’re stopped or encounter one in the community. Doing so makes any experience with officers less stressful and safer for everyone involved.

The Huntsville Police Citizens Advisory Council (HPCAC) is partnering with the Huntsville Police Department to host a community forum Tuesday, March 14, at 5:30 p.m. on tips for handling police encounters. The event, which will take place at the North Huntsville Public Library, 3011 Sparkman Drive, will also offer roundtable discussions with the public, HPD officers and members of the HPCAC.

“Knowing what to do during a police encounter is critical for everyone’s safety and well-being,” said Huntsville Police Chief Kirk Giles. “Although it might be inconvenient or frustrating, officers have a number of reasons why they might stop you. We hope you at-

The HPCAC serves to promote productive police and community interaction and foster mutual trust by assisting the police in achieving a greater understanding of the complex social fabric of the community. The HPCAC brings a citizen’s perspective on the policies and procedures of law enforcement and helps advise on a variety of topics, including diversity, recruitment, training and discipline.

HPCAC Chair Jonathan Rossow said the March forum is a great opportunity to participate in thoughtful dialogue with HPD, learn something new and provide feedback for future police operations.

“Education is an important component of the HPCAC,” he said. “We hope the community comes out March 14 to better understand common reasons for routine police stops and how to handle the encounter.”

For more information on the HPCAC, visit www. huntsvilleal.gov.

Biden’s loan forgiveness plan a cynical ploy

The Issue

President Joe Biden’s student loan forgiveness plan was before the Supreme Court last week, where the arguments served as a reminder Biden himself was skeptical of his authority before he opted for political gain.

President Joe Biden’s decision to unilaterally forgive billions of dollars in student loan debt is probably the most cynical and opportunistic action of his presidency. Now it is before the U.S. Supreme Court.

Biden took his time making the decision. According to numerous reports, he doubted he had the authority to simply wipe away student debt — something that seemed like it would require action from Congress. But last August, he finally gave in to the voices within his administration clamoring for debt relief and announced a plan to cancel up to $20,000 in student debt for eligible borrowers.

This plan is not without cost. The U.S. Department of Education estimates that one-time student debt relief will cost an average

of $30 billion a year over the next decade. Other groups put the cost even higher.

While the Education Department also estimates that 90% of the loan forgiveness benefits will go to those earning less than $75,000 a year, much of that cost will be borne by middle class taxpayers who paid off their own student loans and working class taxpayers who did not go to college.

All of these, however, are practical arguments against Biden’s student loan forgiveness plan. They are the flip side of the arguments made by the plan’s supporters, who ignore the costs and focus on the benefits for current and former college students treading water in oceans of debt. The argument before the Supreme Court is a legal one.

“People think that the president of the United States has the power for debt forgiveness. He does not. He can postpone, he can delay, but he does not have that power.”

That is a quote from former speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi. Of course,

Alabama newspapers are not disappearing

Recent changes in the newspaper landscape in Alabama have us wanting to share some good news about newspapers. Alabama newspapers are alive and printing.

Like most every industry in the world, our industry is experiencing changes that some have characterized as the end of newspapers.

Nothing could be further from the truth. Alabama has 109 paid circulation newspapers that have a print edition at least every week.

Newspapers have evolved in how they deliver news to their readers, but not in their mission to provide quality journalism in their communities. Their print products are now complemented with various platforms, including websites, electronic editions, social media and video. Online only newspapers, in their new frontier, still continue to provide a valuable service in their communities for local news.

State Sen. Orr says grocery, income tax relief ‘a possibility’ this session

By JEFF POOR www.1819NEWS.com

MONTGOMERY - The Alabama Legislature began the first session of the new quadrennium yesterday.

In addition to both chambers having to deal with the constitutionally mandated duty of passing budgets, a $2.6 billion surplus leftover from the prior legislative session will also have to be handled.

During an appearance on Mobile radio FM Talk 106.5’s “The Jeff Poor Show,” State Sen. Arthur Orr (R-Decatur), the chair of the Senate Education Budget Committee, previewed what to expect over the coming months.

One possibility the Morgan County Republican lawmaker raised was action related to the state grocery and income taxes.

“As far as the budget is concerned, I think you’ll see a modest pay raise across the board for educators,” he said. “Same for general fund. I think, of course, a lot of debate will be around the surplus money. I think what will happen is we’ll probably rebate some. We’ll probably put a good bit back for savings – kind of a savings account that we can access under certain conditions. We’ve already filled up more or less our rainyday funds. I think we’re in good shape as far as that’s concerned. I think there will be some tax cuts.

You know, I’ve got several I would like to propose — permanent tax relief and targeted.”

“There are some heavy lifts that, if we can get the votes, I think you could see related to the grocery tax, I think reducing the income tax rates,” Orr continued.

“There is a possibility there that we could maybe get something accomplished. A lot will be moving around, certainly, with the budgets in that regard. But I know, Jeff, for 2025 — we’ll be working on the 2024 budget — for 2025, all of the federal money that has been sloshed down from Washington in the education world will have dried up and be gone. So my concern is

This multimedia combination delivers the greatest exposure of news, entertainment, and public notices available in any community in our state.

And our newspapers remain a reliable and important news source.

A recent market study, conducted by the independent research firm Coda Ventures, reports that 3.2 million, or 81%, of Alabama adults rely on newspapers every month for local news and advertising. That is strong.

The study also found that among consumers who plan to shop for specific products and services, the targeted reach of newspapers is unrivaled.

Our newspapers are an unmatched source of information because they help people know what’s going on in their community, and this promotes a sense of social engagement. The news you receive in your community newspaper is news you

See NEWSPAPERS Page 8B

By JOE HOBBY Columnist

It struck me when I was driving on a little back road near my house.

There in a small, well-kept yard were several forsythias, aka yellow bells, in full bloom. Right in the middle of some unraked leaves the shrubs stood proudly, flanking a straw-colored carpet of dormant Bermuda grass. Their bright yellow flowers were in sharp contrast to the muted colors all around them. I’ve seen this before and I knew what it meant. Fake Spring is here.

Fake Spring is a season that most southerners are aware of, but don’t pay much attention to. All we have to do is look around because the signs are everywhere. It’s not just forsythia. Lots of plants are fooled by Fake Spring. They start blooming, only to be frozen during the sure to come “cold snap”. Look around. Check the blooms! I’ve

already seen tulip trees, red buds, purple thrift, and last and certainly least, Bradford pear trees.

By the way, I’m not a fan of the Bradford pear. Honestly, I hate them. They’re not natural looking, they’re not pretty, they stink, and they bloom too early. But they’re cheap. As a result, it seems every front yard in the south has one. Of course, as most homeowners with a chainsaw will tell you, a good strong wind will rip the limbs right off the trunk. And be careful! These so-called trees have thorns sharper than a wolverine’s claws. South Carolina has outlawed these landscaping horrors, and every other self-respecting state should too. Get rid of them - along with snakes, spiders, and alligators.

Sorry, I digress. Fake Spring fools lots of people too. Well-meaning men and women will go to Lowe’s and buy $537 worth of flowers, dig 175 holes, and lovingly place their new plants in the ground. Then the cold snap strikes again, and they are deader than a possum on the side of the highway. The lure of a

70-degree weekend is so irresistible to some of our brethren that they will actually plant their tomato plants! They know better. I suppose it’s like looking at a car wreck, you know you shouldn’t, but you can’t help yourselves. Fight the urge. Don’t plant those tomato plants yet.

Everyone should know about Fake Spring by now. But I think people are so tired of winter that they just lose their minds. There are folks wanting to make homemade ice cream on a 78-degree March day, only to be huddled around a bowl of chili 24 hours later when the high is 31. I’ve seen golfers in late February begin their round in short sleeve shirts. Four hours later, they’re walking up the 18th hole dressed like Admiral Byrd on an expedition to Antarctica.

And now it’s here. That sneaky, put on your shorts, but have your winter coat handy, season is upon all of us. Think I’m kidding? Today the high is 66. Tomorrow snow flur-

Botanical Garden to host murder mystery dinner show

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

HUNTSVILLE – Huntsville

Botanical Garden (HBG) will unveil its newly renovated Arbor to the public when it becomes the backdrop for a new interactive event. Guests will become part of a ‘whodunnit’ murder mystery, staged as a masquerade ball, at the Masquerade Mystery Dinner Show on March 19, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Since it first opened in 1994,

the Arbor has always been a popular venue at the Garden for weddings, parties, corporate retreats and celebrations of all kinds. After a thorough assessment, the Garden began

renovations on the Arbor in mid-December 2022. The Arbor re-opened as an available rental space at the end of the following February when a beautiful, newly updated event venue was revealed.

The Arbor’s interior was completely remodeled by removing walls and redesigning the space to have a more open concept. Interior improvements also include a new ceiling, new floor, new chandeliers, new lighting and paint. In addition to all new

electrical and HVAC systems, the Arbor now features a stateof-the-art audiovisual.

Exterior improvements include a new roof, a new entry way, window replacements and exterior paint.

“Just as the Garden continues to evolve and grow outdoors, our indoor spaces need to evolve, too,” said HBG Chief Executive Officer Sue Wagner. “We’re proud of the care that went into transforming the Arbor into a stylish and modern space. The

Masquerade Mystery Dinner Show is going to be a fun way to experience all the Arbor has to offer.”

A limited number of tickets are available for the Masquerade Mystery Dinner Show. They are $45 and can be purchased at hsvbg.org/event. Tickets include dinner, a non-alcoholic beverage (a cash bar will be available) and the interactive murder mystery show. Guests are encouraged to wear evening attire and a masquerade mask.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS It was all smiles, shooting hoops and dance last Tuesday at the Special Olympics Basketball game at James Clemens High School. Students played their hearts out against visiting Decatur but they were all one team at half-time when the crowd joined them on the court for some half-time dance moves. Even the school’s SRO and JC principal Dr. Kerry Donaldson busted some moves. The score didn’t matter. Judging from the smiles, tt was a winwin for everyone.

To

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

Preserving history will be the topic of the next Madison Newcomers & Neighbors meeting

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON - The Madison Newcomers & Neighbors club will meet Thursday, March 9, at the Hogan family YMCA 130 (Park Square Lane in Madison). Social time begins at 9:30 a.m. and

the program promptly at 10:00 a.m.

History Facts of Madison will be presented by Cindi Sanderson, who has a strong belief in preserving the past and educating others. She currently serves as chairperson of the Madison Station Historic Preservation Com-

mission. All current residents, newcomers and friends are always welcome to attend. A variety of educational programs and various social activities are offered each month. For further information contact Martha Heard (256)772-9721.

Climate-concerned citizens are invited to free training in effective advocacy on March 11 at Madison Public Library.

Citizens’ Climate Lobby to conduct free workshop at library on March 11

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – A free workshop at Madison Public Library will show residents the ways to advocate for changes in the climate.

Volunteers with Citizens’ Climate Lobby, Huntsville chapter are hosting the Climate Advocate Training Workshop on March 11. The training can empower “everyday folks to enact tangible change to reduce the heat-trapping climate pollution warming our world,” Debbie Chang said. Chang is group leader of the climate lobby in Huntsville.

Participants will gather for registration and coffee at 9:15 a.m. The session opens at 9:30 a.m. and will end at 1 p.m.

“Citizens’ Climate Lobby or CCL is a nonprofit grassroots organization that aims to build political will for bipartisan solutions for climate change through respectful relationships with lawmakers,” Chang said.

The three-hour training will familiarize participants with productive, open conversations about climate change and give an overview of ways that they can meet and talk to their members of Congress about climate concerns. Participants also will gain useful skills

for highlighting the issue and solutions to residents and leaders.

“So many people want to see action on the climate, but they are at a loss as to what they can do,” Chang said. “We are providing this free training to show our community that we can make a difference by advocating for achievable climate solutions.”

“Our leaders have options available to them that can slow the climate pollution harming Alabama, but they need to know it is important to us. Worsening heat waves, more violent storms and a growing number of crop-killing pathogens threaten farmers’ livelihoods,” Chang said.

Recent extreme weather has cost billions of dollars in damages for

the U.S. military, she said. These patterns threaten the health and safety of American military personnel who serve overseas.

“We can help protect our community from the unpredictable impacts of climate change, such as extreme heat or flooding. This workshop will break the myth that we can’t make a difference and will inspire attendees to be the change they want to see in the world,” Chang said.

Everyone is welcome to attend the workshop. Refreshments will be available so participants should register at ClimateHuntsville. Eventbrite.com or RSVP with Huntsville@CitizensClimateLobby.org. For more information, visit cclusa.org.

City council

Continued from page 3A parency and increased communication, especially in how the proposed transition would happen if approved by voters, Mayor Paul Finley responded, in part, saying, “We’re going to meet with our teams the latter part of this week, first part of next week to make sure that we do some of what I’ve just heard.”

He said they will look at who will be responsible for getting the proper information to residents before the election and how that is done. “I think it’s critical that we make sure it happens,” he added. Finley has expressed his support for the transition to a city manager.

Finley announced a date for the special election will be announced at the March 13 city council meeting. “On March 13, we will have a date in the early part of May, on a Tuesday where the vote will occur — unless something dramatically changes that we don’t foresee happening,” the mayor stated.

Toyota Field success

In addition to addressing updates to the city manager proposal, the city council welcomed two presentations regarding Toyota Field. In the first presentation, Adam Nelson from Warren Averett CPAs

and Advisors presented the companies audit for the city of the venue revenue reports from BallCorps on Toyota Field. According to Nelson, the audit successfully “noted no variances in dollar amounts reported by BallCorps”.

A Ballcorps representative, next, gave a presentation on the performance of Toyota Field in 2022. Overall, Toyota Field proved a valuable asset to city functions by hosting a variety of events including the Christmas spectacular, a crawfish festival, the Big Ol’ Ballpark Fair, high school baseball games, an NCAA Division I football game, the Artemis I splashdown watch party, an Auburn University baseball game, and much more. 2022 saw the launching of The Trash Panda Foundation, a non-profit 501(c)(3) “dedicated to educating promoting healthy lifestyles through sport and to positively impact communities in North Alabama.”

The Trash Pandas posted outstanding statistics last season winning First Half and Second Half Division Titles, eight former trash pandas making their MLB debut, Manager Andy Schatzley winning Southern League Manager of the Year, and Groundskeeper Charlie Weaver winning MiLB

Groundskeeper of the Year. BallCorps’ total payment to the city totaled to $1,403,115 for the 2022 year. 2023 promises even more fun with a University of Alabama baseball game in March, Smoke in the Outfield BBQ Festival in August, 27 firework nights, 69 Trash Pandas home games, and more.

Mayor Finley celebrated the success of the stadium in the past year, “You’ve got a great team, and thanks for all you’re doing. As you said, it’s a community venue and it continues to be that. So, thank you.”

The city’s approval of another $15,357 out of a total $30,000 for Phase I Toyota Field improvements later in the meeting is expected to contribute to the success of the venue in the new year.

Other items approved by the council include the following:

• Authorizing purchase of lights for Hexagon pickleball courts and ball fields for $85,800 and $206,900, respectively, from Musco Sports Lighting

• Bids to be issued for lighting installation on Dublin Soccer Field No. 5

• Annual appropriations with the Community Free Dental Clinic for $2,500, Land Trust of North Alabama for $5,000,

the Madison City Community Orchestra for $2,500, and the National Children’s Advocacy Center for $20,000

• Authorization of payments to Barge Design Solutions for $21,978.21 for work performed on Wall Triana and I-565 intersection improvements, to Carcel & G Construction for $31,544.38 for the Hughes Road construction, and to Wiregrass Construction for $51,673.97 for work performed on the Middle School Infrastructure Project

• Final payment in acceptance of AMIC Settlement Claim No. 055774 for $43,490.30 for several city properties

• Transportation agreement with the Madison Board of Education for the Dublin Park Eggstravaganza on April 8, 2023 and for the Dublin Park Independence Day event on July 3, 2023

• Authorization of Professional Services with OHM Advisors for engineering design on Balch Road and Gooch Lane Intersection for $156,700, Croy Engineering for design services on Bradley Street Improvements for $178,940, and SAIN Associates, Inc. for engineering design services on Old Madison Pike Widening and Browns Ferry Rd Overlay for $180, 915

• Acceptance of quote from

Nearmap US, Inc. for a subscription for aerial photos and AI vector for the Engineering Department for $8,200

• Authorization of changes to job classification plan for Human Resources to incentivize applicants to positions like crossing guard and lifeguard that are historically difficult to fill

• Authorization of a Restaurant Retail Liquor License from J & T Hall, LLC for the Lanier House at 20 Martin Street

• First Reading of vacation of utility and drainage easement at 219 Coach Lamp Drive in Willow Creek Subdivision

• Approval of Permissive Use Agreements with The Village of Oakland Springs Neighborhood Association, Inc and with SS Madison, LLC of The Avenue for signage in the respective communities

• Professional Services Agreement with ArcSpace Studio for preparation of a Master Plan for the Farley-Wann House at 225 Mill Road for $17,600

• MOU for the Handle with Care program that discreetly notifies the school system of a child’s exposure to trauma and works with the Madison Board of Education, the City of Madison and The National Children’s Advocacy Center

The first annual Madison Visionary Partners (MVP) community-wide event to celebrate the volunteers who make Madison a great place to live, work and play is fast approaching. Finalists for Community Volunteer of the Year, Youth Volunteer of the Year, and Philanthropic Business of the Year were announced last week (see www.themadisonrecord.com). The finalists for the top category, Madison Visionary of the Year, will be announced at the event luncheon. They were picked from nominations submitted by the community. The luncheon will be held at 11:30 a.m. on March 30 at the SportsMed Club at Toyota Stadium. 5. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit mvpmadison.org. Tickets will be on sale until March 15.

You can follow updates to news and events impacting Madison at themadisonrecord.com

Mixed results for James Clemens, Bob Jones baseball in Hoover

By CALEB ODOM caleb@themadisonrecord.com

HOOVER - James Clemens

baseball had two losses and one big win this weekend in Hoover at the Perfect Game HS Showdown on Thursday through Saturday.

The Jets lost 7-0 on Thursday, March 2 against Catholic from Baton Rouge, La. but bounced back on Friday, March 3 with a 17-7 defeat of Etowah.

By CALEB ODOM caleb@themadisonrecord.com

BIRMINGHAM - The Sparkman girls basketball team reached the end of the road on Saturday, March 4 as they lost to Hoover 55-44 in the Class 7A State Final in Birmingham.

This victory secures a third straight state title for a dominant Hoover program.

Hoover was powered by the offensive contributions of Reniya Kelly’s 25 points and Layla Etchinson’s 20-point performance.

Sparkman’s leading point-getter was Nylaa Fuller with 12.

“This program is resurrected. We’ll be back and we look forward to being back.”

The Lady Bucs wasted no time jumping out to a 20-5 advantage after just one quarter of action.

“The first quarter hurt us trailing by 20 a halftime,” Sparkman head coach Jarvis Wilson said. “35-15 was not the way we wanted to get started.”

Hoover added to its lead in the second quarter with 15 more

points to stay out front 35-15 at the half.

To Sparkman’s credit, the Lady Senators didn’t just give up in this game.

12 points in the third period by Sparkman made the score 44-27 Hoover with just one quarter to play.

The Lady Senators outscored Hoover yet again in the fourth quarter 16-9, but the Lady Bucs in the end did enough in the first half to stave off a Sparkman comeback.

“I’m proud of the fact we just kept fighting,” Sparkman junior Laryn Scott said.

North vs. South All-Star Wrestling a huge success for Sparkman girl’s wrestling program

By BOB LABBE bob@themadisonrecord.com

MONTGOMERY- In what could be the final time she stepped onto a wrestling mat for competition, Sparkman senior Akerah Artis may have proved correctly what many experts feel she is the best high school wrestler in Alabama. Competing in the Alabama Wresting Coaches Association’s North vs. South All-Star Dual the Class 6-7A state champion wasted little time as she

posted a pin at the 2:36 mark of the second period against Tristan Robinson of Northside Methodist. Artis was leading two-nothing at the time of the pin and used a new wrestling move for the win.

“It was a new move where I used my legs to pin her,” said Artis, who is now 32-0 in her final campaign as a high school wrestler. “She (Robinson) was aggressive, but I had beaten her in the semi-finals of the State Tournament so I knew what she was capable of doing

during the match.”

Artis’ 145-pound match was the final match of the event held at Roland Gymnasium of Huntington College in Montgomery. Her scheduled match opponent was Fabiola Sanchez of Auburn High, but Sanchez became ill, and Robinson, who lost in her scheduled match in the 138-pound weight class, volunteered to challenge Artis.

For Artis, who helped Sparkman to the Class 6-7A State Championship last month, her

The weekend ended for James Clemens with a 5-4 defeat at the hands of Saraland on Saturday, March 4 in a game that went eight innings.

“There was good and bad from the weekend,” Jets head coach Johnny Johnson said.

“I felt like defensively we struggled as the 10 errors in three games showed. On the other hand, I felt our pitchers threw well enough for us to have a chance to win in all of the games.”

Left-handed pitcher Satchel Wheeler was strong in the Saraland game on Saturday tossing 4 2/3 innings allowing 3 hits, no earned runs with seven strikeouts.

Offensively for James Clemens, Colten Payton had a .500 average in 12 at bats with four walks, three runs and an RBI.

The Jets also counted on the bat of shortstop Andrew Lawrence who nabbed three bases and ended up with a .444 average with three walks and an RBI.

“We saw some good baseball teams and we hope to learn from our mistakes as well heading into another tough baseball weekend on the road.”

James Clemens plays in Troy, Ala. this weekend.

Bob Jones baseball wins second game of Saturday double-header

The Bob Jones baseball team had a busy end of the week despite threatening weather with games on Thursday, Friday and a Saturday double-header.

The Patriots closed out a Saturday, March 4 double-dip with a 3-1 victory over the Loganville Red Devils in the Perfect Game HS Showdown in Hoover.

Bob Jones Centerfielder

Sammy Vander Hill was 2 for 3 with an RBI in the game while Patriot pitcher Ben Arn tossed seven strong innings allowing just three hits and one run.

Arn recorded eight strikeouts to just a single walk in the win.

The Patriots took the 1-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning and the score stayed that way for a while.

Bob Jones added a run in the fifth and sixth innings, while Loganville’s lone run in the top of the sixth inning would not be enough.

Sparkman’s Akerah Artis, left, wrangles with her opponent in the first North-South All-Star Dual wrestling event held in Montgomery. The senior Senator was one of two from Sparkman to be invited to the special event hosted by the Alabama Wrestling Coaches Association. Photo by ALWCA

- Sparkman head coach Jarvis Wilson

Battle Royale

The 2023 outdoor track and field season got underway as James Clemens hosted 20 schools as part of the Early Bird Battle Royale at James Clemens. Page 4B

TIRED OF THE S?

As the No. 3 seed, UAH is pitted against sixth-seeded Embry-Riddle for Saturday’s first round matchup.

Chargers qualify for 15th NCAA Tournament, 11th since 2010

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla .- The field for the 2023 NCAA Division II Men’s Basketball South Region Championships has been set, and The University of Alabama in Huntsville men’s basketball team will be the No. 3 seed in the regional tournament starting Saturday.

The 2023 NCAA Division II South

Region Men’s Basketball Championships will be held on the campus of first-seeded Nova Southeastern starting with Saturday’s opening-round matchups.

As the No. 3 seed, UAH is pitted against sixth-seeded Embry-Riddle for Saturday’s first round matchup. Game times were not announced at press-time. Check www.themadisonrecord.com for updates this week. We will post the times as soon

as they are announced.

The rest of the NCAA South Regional field consists of West Alabama at No. 2, Lee at No. 4, West Georgia at No. 5, Tuskegee at No. 7, and Miles at No. 8.

This is the UAH men’s basketball program’s 15th berth to the NCAA tournament and the fifth consecutive year the Chargers have been selected to compete at the NCAA South Regional.

Registration opens for Alabama State Games

By BOB LABBE bob@themadisonrecord.com

BIRMINGHAM - Forty years ago, with doubts among many across Alabama, the first Alabama State Games were held with four events and slightly more than 600 participants. Now, four decades later, the 40th anniversary of the multi-sport, Olympic style athletic event will feature 28 different sports with more than 3,000 athletes partaking in the three-day activity in Birmingham and Jefferson County June 9-11.

After being held in the Dothan area in 2022, “We are thrilled to once again welcome the Alabama State Games and celebrate its dynamic athletes of all ages and abilities,” said Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin. “Birmingham is known regionally, nationally and internationally for hosting exceptional sporting events. The games’ presence will not only have an economic impact but also be another feather in the cap of special events to come to our city.”

The Opening Ceremony of the 40th Games kicks off June 9 at 7:00 p.m. inside UAB’s Bartow Arena and is free to the public. The ceremony will be televised live to a statewide audience on the Alabama State Games Television Network and games begin June 10 with events held at different venues across Birmingham and Jefferson County.

As part of the 40th anniversary, the ASF Foundation is awarding a record number of 17 scholarships for $20,000. The Games through partnerships like State Farm Athlete Leadership Summit rewarding academics, the Student Ambassador Program and URKeys2Drv programs have awarded over $335,000 in scholarships since the first Games were held. Participants of all ages are eligible for the drawing with the

only requirement of register to participate in the Games and attend the Opening Ceremony.

“There are thousands of young people in households throughout Alabama who have not had the opportunity to experience the excitement, the challenges and the values learned from competitive sports,” said Ron Creel, founder of the ASF Foundation and the Alabama State Games. “We have only begun to realize our full potential and impact. It is becoming clear that the future of the Alabama State Games is more far reaching then any one of us could dare to dream.”

This is about more than a gold medal and a place on the podium. Creel and his staff and the people involved with making the Alabama State Games run from year to year, have the opportunity to be shining examples of leadership within a community, academic excellence and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle.

The 2023 Alabama State Games

will feature a mixture of new and familiar events: archery, baton twirling, bowling, baseball, baseball 13U, basketball, chess, disc golf, diving, Esports, equestrian, flag football, gymnastics, judo, Miracle League, ninja challenge, pickleball, racquetball, soccer, shooting sports, swimming, table tennis, taekwondo, tennis, track & field, ultimate frisbee, volleyball and wrestling.

The Alabama State Games is part of the nationwide network of state games with a national organization called the National Congress of State Games (NCSG). The mission of the NCSG is to support State Games member organizations in the promotion of health, fitness and character building through multisport competitions and physical activities.

Registration for the Games is underway with participants of all ages and locations across Alabama expected to enter. Visit www.alagames.com to register and receive event details.

The 40th anniversary of the Alabama State Games is this year and the games have expanded over the years to include 28 different sports. Registration for the scheduled June games is now open.

ALAINA OBIANOZIE SIGNS - Alaina Obianozie, an Honorable Mention All-American by the American Volleyball Coaches Association and senior at Bob Jones High, has signed with the Miles College Bears located in Fairfield, AL. The super-talented, 5-foot-8 middle blocker for the Patriots played in all 59 matches for Bob Jones during her 2022 senior season where she had 153 kills with a hitting percentage of .200, 98 blocks along with 47 digs and 14 assists while playing for head coach Jenny Jarrett. Obianozie has a 3.5 grade point average and will major in Business Administration.

Jets tackle four tough games in one day, downs Danville 5-0

By CALEB ODOM caleb@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON - The James Clemens softball team had a busy Saturday, March 4 in Decatur with four games in one day due to severe weather cancellations the day before.

In the matchup against Danville, the Jets took down the Hawks 5-0 with steady scoring throughout the duration of the game.

It was the Jets’ third game of the four and Danville only managed just a solitary hit in this contest while James Clemens was led by the sweet swings of Makenna King, who tallied a pair of hits and an RBI.

The Jets also had a couple of RBIs from right fielder Sayde South in the victory.

James Clemens grabbed the 1-0 lead in the top of the first and didn’t look back.

The scored turned into 2-0 Jets with another run in the top of the third inning, but James Clemens really put its stamp on this game in the fourth inning with a 3-run frame that put Danville to bed.

“The rain definitely made a difference,” James Clemens head coach Bradley Kimbrough said.

“With school closing on Friday it prevented us from practicing which certainly showed up in our offensive production today.”

Game 1: Ardmore 11, James Clemens 0 James Clemens was held hitless in the first of a Saturday marathon of games in Decatur against Ardmore.

The Tigers wasted no time with the bats with a brutal 9-run bottom of the first inning.

Ardmore tacked on two more for good measure in the third and fourth innings to run away with the game 11-0 that was run-ruled after just four innings.

Game 2: West Morgan 2, James Clemens 0

The Jets were grounded in the West Morgan game as they were held without a hit in the 2-0 loss.

Six of the 15 James Clemens at-bats ended in strikeouts against West Morgan.

A 2-run top of the second was all West Morgan needed to win this contest.

Game 4: Ardmore 5, James Clemens 0

The final game of the day saw the Jets unable to keep pace with the Ardmore once more in a 5-0 loss.

James Clemens had 2-hit performances from Kayla Thompson and Abby Newsom, but the Jets could not scratch any runs across in this one.

The Tigers took the lead 1-0 in the bottom of the first and used 2-run innings in the second and third as added insurance.

RILEY GROVES SIGNS - The No. 1 college recruited swimmer in Alabama has signed his official letter to attend West Point. Riley Groves of Bob Jones, a six-time high school state runner-up and NISCA High School All-American, signed his college official paperwork in a recent ceremony at the school. The eldest of five children to Matthew and Jennifer Groves will swim for the Div. I program of the Black Knights and step onto the military campus with a 4.0 grade point average. He chose West Point over Auburn and Georgia Tech looking to earn an education in mechanical engineering and a possible career in the U.S. Military. The 6-foot-3 Groves led the Bob Jones team to a fifth place finish in the 2022 State Swim Meet under head coach Wade Thaxton. Individually, he finished runner-up in both the 100-yard butterfly and 100-yard backstroke.

The Lady Jets went 1-3 in a day that saw James Clemens play four back-to-back games due to severe weather cancellations the day before. Photo by Kinsley Hunter

Editor’s Note: The photos that ran with the sports story in last week’s issue recognizing the winning teams with Madison youth basketball were taken by Stephanie Elmore with the Madison Recreation Department. Credit for the photos was inadvertently left off. Stephanie worked hard throughout the season and was a huge asset to the youth basketball program. We apologize for the error.

Calhoun women make conference tournament after program’s rebirth

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

HUNTSVILLE - The Calhoun women’s basketball team is making the most of the program’s rebirth.

The women have qualified for the Alabama Community College Conference Tournament under first-year head coach Candace Byrd-Vinson.

“This moment is surreal for the coaches, the students as well as our amazing Calhoun and community fan base. To say we worked hard to get to this place would be a complete understatement,” commented Byrd-Vinson. “After being hired as the new head coach, I knew time was not on my side, and that I had to begin recruiting very quickly. Recruiting late in the year can be extremely discouraging as many athletes have already decided where they wanted to go, but I truly felt in my heart that we still stood a chance with obtaining athletes that could help us have an amazing season.”

The Calhoun women (16-11, 13-6) are the third seed from the North Division. They play Bishop State, the No. 2 team out of the South, on March 8 at noon at Alabama A&M. The finals are set for March 10 at 4 p.m. at Alabama A&M.

The Warhawks ended the regular season Tuesday falling at Wallace-Hanceville, 84-75. Kennedi Hawkins (Florence) produced another double-double with 36 points and 18 rebounds. She hit 17 of 25 field goals and had 10 offensive rebounds.

Tashanti Watkins (Austin) also had a double-double with 17 points and 10 rebounds. Kesiah Rogers (Sparkman) had 10 points.

The Calhoun men (1218, 8-14) closed out their season under head coach Derrick Powell, Jr., with a loss at Hanceville, 87-55.

For more than two decades, Calhoun had been without a basketball program. After surveying the community, the college acted on the results, and basketball returned.

“There are many decisions that are made at the college, and this one is at the top of the list I deem as being a great decision,” commented Dr. Jimmy Hodges, Calhoun President. “The college sports experience is just as important as the academic experience. And if there is an opportunity to provide both to a student, I say go for it, which is what we did when we brought back basketball. This program has allowed students to attend Calhoun debt-free while enjoying the game they love and obtaining a high-quality education.”

“This season has been magical!” Byrd-Vinson said. “I have been blessed to be surrounded by talented and hardworking young women, who bought into the vision. This season has exposed what a team can do when everyone is on the same page, working together to accomplish the same goal.”

General Admission tickets are $10.00 a day. All games will be streamed live by JockJive at the following link: https://www. jockjive.com/acccsports. html.

Battle Royale at James Clemens opens high school track season

By BOB LABBE bob@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON - The 2023 outdoor track and field season got underway as James Clemens hosted 20 schools as part of the Early Bird Battle Royale. The host Jets got off on a good foot winning both the boys and girls divisions on their home track.

In all, James Clemens gathered in 13 gold medal performances, including three by senior Tramani Osley who picked up first place honors in the long jump, triple jump and throwers 4x100. The Lady Jets posted 165 points for first just ahead of Huntsville in second (154) and Bob Jones in third place (103). The James Clemens boys took the championship trophy scoring 189 points followed by runner-up Huntsville (136) and Bob Jones in third (105).

For Bob Jones, the brother-sister act of Jordan Urrutia, 11, and his eighth grade sister Alivia Urrutia collectively won three gold medals. Alivia also won a silver medal in one additional individual event.

The Battle Royale was the first major event of the newest high school track season and featured a total of 14 new event records set.

Here are the final medal-winning results featuring the local schools: Boys: 150m- 1. Jordan Urrutia, 11, Bob Jones 16:37; 200m hurdles- 1.

Ben Thomason, 11, James Clemens 25.93, 2. Ezion Rolingson, 10, James Clemens 26.18, 3. Isaac Pollard, 11, James Clemens 26.58; 300m- 1. Jordan Urrutia, 11, Bob Jones 35.95; 500m- 3. Jordan Morrison, 12, Bob Jones 1:08.65; 100m- 1. Luke Alverson, 10, James Clemens 2:38.73, 3. Cole Robinson, 11, James Clemens 2:42.01; 4x300m- 1. James Clemens 2:27.55; high jump- 1. Malachi Mitchell, 12, Bob Jones 6-4, 2. Lucas Downing, 11, James Clemens 6-2; pole vault- 2. Austin Abney, 11, James Clemens 12-0, 3. Branson Fisher, 11, James Clemens 11-6; long jump- 2. Ben Thomason, 11, James Clemens 20-8; triple jump- 2. Jonah McNealey, 12, Sparkman, 40-6.50; shot put- 2. Jaylen Drake, 12, James Clemens 47-6, 3. Christian Kemp, 12, Bob Jones 45-9.50; 4x100m- 1. James Clemens 48.35, 3. James Clemens 49.31; 2000m steeplechase- 1. Cole Robinson, 11, James Clemens

6:07.80, 2. Dylan Dryer, 11, James Clemens 6:08.66; discus- 2. Christian Kemp, 12, Bob Jones 126-4; 4x250m-

1. Bob Jones 2:00.82; 4x1600m- 1. James Clemens 18:45.31. Girls: 150m- 1. Zaria Parker, 10, James Clemens 18.99, 2. Alivia Urrutia, 8, Bob Jones 19:31, 3. Ayana Lee, 12, James Clemens 20.03; 300m-

1. Alivia Urrutia, 8, Bob Jones 41.20,

2. Zaria Parker, 10, James Clemens 43.52, 3. Alexa Moore, 12, James

Clemens; 500m- 3. Arienna Coe, 12, Bob Jones 1:26.11; 4x300m- 1. James Clemens 3:08.36; 2x100m shuttle- 1. James Clemens 2:27.55; 2x110m hurdle shuttle- 1. James Clemens 31.12, 3. Bob Jones 36.42; high jump- 3. Reese Yarbrough, 12, James Clemens 4-8; pole vault- 2. Sydney Truesdail, 12, Bob Jones 9-0, 3. Ashlyn Diehl, 11, James Clemens 9-0; long jump- 1. Tramani Osley, 12, James Clemens 16-9, 2. Kalah Christopher, 9, Bob Jones 15-7.25; triple jump- 1. Tramani Osley, 12, James Clemens 343.75, 2. Alayna Langston, 12, James Clemens 31-9; shot put- 2. Taylor Thompson, 12, Bob Jones 32-5.50, 3. Kassidy Anderson, 11, James Clemens 30-4; 4x100m- 1. James Clemens 57.60; 4x1600m- 2. James Clemens 23:40.28; 4x250m- 1. James Clemens 2:27.14.

The final team standings: Boys- 1. James Clemens 189, 2. Huntsville 136, 3. Bob Jones 105, 4. Arab 60, 5. Randolph 43, 6. Decatur 34, 7. Falkville 23, 8. Sparkman 20, 9. Hartselle 18, 10. Grissom 17, 11. Hazel Green 14, 12. Whitesburg Christian Academy 9; Girls- 1. James Clemens 165, 2. Huntsville 154, 3. Bob Jones 103, 4. Arab 64.5, 5. Whitesburg Christian Academy 45.5, 6. Randolph 32, 7. Hazel Green 21, 8. Falkville 20, 9. Brewer 18, 10. Grissom 13, 11. Decatur 11, 12. Hartselle 10, 12. Athens Bible 10, 14. Meridianville Middle 1.

Sparkman bowlers named to All-State teams

By BOB LABBE bob@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON - Still feeling the celebration excitement of winning a State Championship and dominating the post-season All-County Teams selections, the Sparkman High bowling team has more reasons to continue the celebration with the recent naming of the AllState and Super All-State Bowling Teams.

The Senators again showcased their talents with honors in both boys and girls divisions and their head coach Lisa Ivey as she was named the Boys Coach of the Year. The Sparkman boys won the Class 6-7A State Championship while the Lady Senators were runner-up in their division play at the annual AHSAA Bowling State Championships. Now the final post-season awards

have been handed out and Sparkman is well represented among the elite bowlers in Alabama.

The Boys Class 6-7A First-Team All-State selections include Dalton Tolgo of Sparkman. All-State Honorable selections include Dalton Robinson and Zachary Swaim of Sparkman and Joshua Norris of Bob Jones. The Girls First-Team All-State list includes sisters Angela Webber and Jenna Webber of Sparkman while their teammate Natalie Alsup was named to the Honorable Mention list of elite bowlers.

The selections for the Super AllState Teams include Dalton Tolgo of Sparkman, as well as, Ivey’s selection as Boys Coach of the Year award. In girls, Angela Webber was selected to the First-Team Super squad while her sister Jenna Webber was chosen for the Second-Team Super All-State selections.

Sparkman’s Dalton Tolgo was named to the Super All-State Bowling team after helping lead the Senators to the State Championship during the recent 2023 season.

UAH Chargers defeat Lions in overtime 14-13

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

MARS HILL, N.C. - The University of Alabama in Huntsville men’s lacrosse team picked up an overtime victory in a nonconference game on the road at Mars Hill by a score of 14-13. UAH improves to 5-2, while MHU slips to 2-5.

Junior Ian Arnt led the Chargers offense with four goals on the afternoon including the game-winning goal in overtime and se-

nior Reid Vender rated second on the roster with three goals. Vender and Arnt each push their goal totals to nine for the year.

Greyson Stevens and Jake LeVette each tallied a pair of goals against the Lions while Josh Campbell, Will Ford, and Brody Phillips each had one goal.

Defensively, Arnt generated three caused turnovers and Collin Galinski recorded two caused turnovers while UAH as a team forced nine turnovers from Mars Hill. Hunter Coleman picked up a team-high five ground balls, with Phillips and Arnt each registering four pickups.

Max Keller played the full time in goal for the Chargers with nine saves over 60 minutes of action, as he earned the win to

The Calhoun women (16-11, 13-6) are the third seed from the North Division. They play Bishop State, the No. 2 team out of the South today, March 8, at noon at Alabama A&M. The final will be held Saturday.

Both the boys and girls track and field teams of James Clemens celebrate their winning the season-opening Early Bird Battle Royale hosted by James Clemens. The huge day-long meet featured 20 schools. Photo by Drew Bell, James Clemens High

Photo by AHSAA

Spring is a milder season that marks the end of Winter. Spring brings mild, warmer weather to most parts of the World. Flowers bloom; trees once again have green leaves; plants grow; and animals become active again. People begin more outdoor activities, such as sports and picnics. Seeds are planted, and gardens are tended to. As the Earth revolves around the Sun (It takes one full year for it to completely rotate around the Sun one time.), the side of the Earth you live on, or hemisphere, is either closer to the Sun or farther away. The warmer, milder weather is due to the closer distance to the Sun for that particular season. The beginning of Spring is marked by the Vernal Equinox. An Equinox is the only day of the year in which both day and night are the exact length of time. In the Northern Hemisphere, we experience the Vernal Equinox (or first day of Spring) around March 20, while the Southern Hemisphere experiences the first day of their Fall season. This occurrence is due to the fact that the Sun is passing directly over the Equator which happens only twice a year. Spring usually lasts until around the end of June, when the hemisphere is even closer to the Sun, and the hot Summer weather arrives.

Flower Maze

Flower Word Find Connect The Dots

Shadow Match

Spring cleaning is the act of cleaning out your home, or other area, after the long Winter. List 5 things you need to Spring clean below.

Don’t force doors open, trust God

By BECKY MILLER God’s Lemonade Stand

The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeks him.

Lamentations 3:25

It is sure hard to wait, isn’t it? Especially for change in something you have prayed about and supposedly gave it to God then you get anxious and want to help things along. I have been tempted and caved many times but am working on it. Trusting God. How about you?

Perhaps God is wanting to do a work in you too while he works things out about the person you lifted up on prayer. Trying to teach trust, stillness, mercy, and things like that. Be

still. Breathe in, breathe out.

Each and every day start it with prayer and praise to God. Open the book of Psalms and read the verses. Hide God’s word in your heart and then your mind can help you remember scripture in time of need. Don’t trust in man, don’t trust in church theology, don’t trust in angels, but put your trust and hope in God.

PRAYER: Father when I don’t know why things are not happening help me be still and not try to fix stuff.

I know you have a great plan for those who wait. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

God’s Lemonade Stand is written by former Madison resident Becky Miller. Her daily devotions appear on Facebook or at godslemonadestand.blogspot. com.

Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. Luke 12:6-7 NIV

Asbury Church announces date for Car & Bike Show

Registration is now open, volunteers are needed

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – Asbury’s biggest community event will be bringing in over 200 eye-catching cars, bikes, and trucks for a spectacular day for the entire family on May 20 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. With free admission and free vehicle registration for 2023, all kinds of vehicles are invited to participate, including hot rods, cruisers, pick-ups, hogs, vintage beauties, and exotic imports. Free hot dogs

will also be served.

“Last year’s show was a roaring success, and we love seeing the excitement this event brings every year as car and bike enthusiasts roll in their vehicles to offer a fun day for the community,” said Bill Munts, Pastor of Operations at Asbury. “It’s a great way for members of the car scene to connect and give families in our community a free experience together too. We look forward to welcoming everyone onto our campus!”

Sponsorship opportunities are also available for local automotive businesses to support the scene and feature fun giveaways. Fees will be poured back into Asbury’s ministry efforts through things like local partnerships with organizations that serve the vulnerable in

our community such as the Downtown Rescue Mission, Asbury’s Oil Change Day Ministry, and Royal Family Kids Camp.

The 2023 Asbury Car & Bike Show will take place at Asbury’s north parking lot on the Madison Campus at 980 Hughes Road. The entrance will be from Gillespie Road. Attendee parking will be available behind Building 3. For vehicle registration or sponsor info, visit asburycarshow.com. On-site vehicle registration and check-in will begin at 8 a.m. on May 20. Voting will be completed by amateur judges from 10-11 a.m. with trophies awarded at 12 p.m. No rain date is scheduled.

For information, to volunteer or to register a vehicle for the show, go to www.weareasbury.com/carshow.

The 2023 Car & Bike Show at Asbury Church is scheduled for May 20.

Girded up

By DAWN REED

On the outside, I looked fabulous: new white wig in place, pink sparkly cat-eyed glasses, a pink puffy gown with lots of tulle and glitter. Below the surface, not so much. The fear of being pulled over or in an accident kept me driving very, very carefully.

I have the absolute privilege of being the Tooth Fairy for some elementary schools in our area. It’s magical fun where I get to share with kids of all ages about the importance of taking care of their teeth. It’s a fun opportunity I’ve had for years but was grounded during the years of COVID.

I don’t know about you, but during COVID, my shape changed. I embodied Luke 2:52 where it says, “Jesus grew in wisdom and stature…”

I have indeed grown in wisdom since COVID and also in stature-but I’ll just say I haven’t gotten taller.

When I got a call several weeks ago that the Tooth Fairy was needed once again, there was great concern that the gown would still fit.

It did, but just barely. And so, it seemed that I would need help in the form of stretchy material to squeeze everything together. In the wardrobe assistance aisle at Walmart, I was befuddled.

Should I choose the size I currently am or the size I desire to be? After going back and forth, I made my purchase. On the way home, I hoped I hadn’t chosen poorly.

For the special day, I

was restrained by not one, but two layers of miraculously stretchy assistance. It was difficult to breathe.

As I slowly made my way to the school, I couldn’t help smiling. Bible verses came to mind about being “girded up.” This was surely how that felt!

Psalm 18:39 speaks of being girded with strength for battle, while Psalm 30:11 applied to the day.

The KJV was the best: “Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing…and girded me with gladness.” There would be dancing AND gladness at the elementary school today!

Spandex or rubbery stretchy stuff can hold me fast, but nothing, NOT ONE SINGLE THING, holds me faster and tighter than the right hand of my Father in heaven (Psalm 139:10). In His hand, I am secure, no matter what the day holds. Through the valley, through the storm, in sickness, or heartache, He is with me. I am His; that’s the best place to be.

At the school, the kids were gathered in the library. We talked about how important it is to brush especially before bed and had silly fun pretending to brush and floss. We played “Tooth Fairy says” and danced a little. Then, I read my favorite tooth book. They had lots of things they wanted to ask me. One little girl, perhaps a future detective, asked very pointed questions. I got out of there before they figured out my true identity.

Still girded with…gladness, I traveled home very slowly, thankful my new wig hadn’t come off in the middle of everything.

HUNTSVILLE - For the first time in four years the Northeast Chapter of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) will meet in the format once utilized by the area’s Christian organization for high school and middle school student-athletes.

Presented by Friends of FCA, the 2023 Team Celebration and Fundraising Dinner will be held Tuesday, April 4, beginning at 6:00 p.m. in the South Hall of Von Braun Center.

The evening of Christian fellowship, along with a delicious sitdown meal, will feature its keynote speaker Jonathan Evans the current chaplain of the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys and co-chaplain of the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks. The 41year old Evans played football at Baylor University graduating in 2005 and was part of the NFL as a member of the off-season or practice squads as a fullback for six teams including the Cowboys, San Diego Chargers, Tennessee Titans, Buffalo Bills, Washington Redskins and Houston Texans. Evans is the son of noted Christian author, speaker and pastor Dr.

Sparkman

Tony Evans. The younger Evans is a graduate of the Dallas Theological Seminary with a master’s degree in Christian Leadership. He is a sought-after public guest as he is known as a dynamic speaker at churches, conferences, men’s events, banquets and youth and FCA events. He is committed to developing the next generation of devoted Christian leaders and will bring his message to the hundreds expected to attend the Team Celebration in April.

The FCA event looks for VIP Teammate admissions, which are $1,000 and includes eight tickets to the Team Celebration, one photo with Evans, one signed copy of Evan’s book, “Get In The Game,” a part of the slide show recognition as a sponsor and priority seating. Individual admissions are also welcome and those admissions are asked to contact the FCA about possible reservations. The event is requesting business casual attire.

The vision of the FCA is to see the world transformed by Jesus Christ through the influence of coaches and athletes. The FCA well-known values include integrity, teamwork, serving and excellence.

“This year’s event is an opportu-

Former NFL player and current chaplain for the Dallas Cowboys Jonathan Evans will be the keynote speaker at the FCA Team Celebration scheduled for April at the Von Braun Center. Registration is open now to attend this special event.

nity to meet under one roof,” said Ken Burnett of the FCA.

To register and inquire about more details, call the local FCA office at 256-509-3692 or visit its website at www.northalabamafca.org.

Deadline to be a part of this special Christian event is March 28.

529858-1

Continued from page 1B

Sparkman advanced to the state semifinals for the first time since 2018 and played in the title game for the first time since 2014. Sparkman last won a state championship in

Ocean Springs 8, Bob Jones 3

The Patriots saw an early 3-run lead slip away in the first Saturday game as Ocean Springs got the better of Bob Jones 8-3.

The Greyhounds used a 6-run bottom of the fifth inning and a 2-run sixth to topple Bob Jones. Despite the loss, Patriot slugger Nate Mayfield shined with a 2-hit game that included two RBIs.

Bob Jones 7, Buford 0

The offense was on full display for Bob Jones on Friday, March 3 as the Patriots blew out the Buford Wolves 7-0.

Bob Jones had quality hitting from Zach Johnson who finished

2007.

“This program is resurrected,” Wilson said. “We’ll be back and we look forward to being back.”

Sparkman was in the State Final

the game with two hits and two runs scored along with an RBI.

The Patriots’ third baseman Braden Booth also made his presence felt with two hits, a walk and an RBI in the victory.

On the mound, Bob Jones turned to hurler Sam Mitchell who gave his team 5 1/3 scoreless innings with 15 strikeouts and just two walks and two hits.

Gage Wilson entered the game in relief for Mitchell and got the final five outs to secure the shutout victory for Bob Jones.

West Forsyth 5, Bob Jones 4

The Patriots came up short in the game on Thursday, March 2 as West Forsyth proved to be too much

Wrestling Continued from page 1B

match was one of surprises. After the two-minute first period and taking aim early in the second period, she became ill and went off the mat where she vomited as she signaled to the referee she needed an injury timeout. “I was really nervous about the match and that caught up with me early in the second period,” explained Artis.

The 18-match event featured five girls matches and 13 boys matches. In the boys, Troy Hennigan of Bob Jones lost to Thomas Giere of Thompson by fall at the 2:25 mark in the 120pound weight class. In girls, Sparkman’s Katerina Nutter also fell victim to a loss. In the 152-pound division she fell by pin at the 3:01 mark of the match to Kalee Holder of

Daphne.

Overall in team scoring, the North boys won 28-25 while the South girls came out on top versus the North 18-9.

Artis said, “It was a great experience as all the girls connected during the event.”

Sparkman head coach Ronnie Watson was awarded the ALWCA Coach of the Year award while Sparkman assistant coaches Suzanne Westhofer and Nathan McKenna were presented as the Assistant Coach of the Year award during ceremonies within the event.

because of a 51-33 victory over Foley on Thursday, March 2 while Hoover had punched its ticket with an 87-39 drubbing of Prattville on the same day.

with the narrow 5-4 win.

Reece Cato recorded a pair of hits for Bob Jones, while Vander Hill notched a couple of RBIs in the loss.

Single-run innings in the top of the second and third spotted the Patriots an early 2-0 advantage, but West Forsyth cut that lead in half with a run of its own in the bottom of the fourth inning.

A 4-run bottom of the fifth inning gave West Forsyth the 5-2 lead for good.

Bob Jones would chip away at the deficit in the later innings with runs in the top of the sixth and the top of the seventh, but the Patriots came one run short in the end.

Sparkman wrestler Akerah Artis, second from left, and Katerina Nutter, third from left, are flanked by Sparkman head coach Ronnie Watson and assistant coach Suzanne Westhofer at the North-South All-Star Dual wrestling event held in Montgomery.

a

she does not have

bility of attending a college that has a girls wrestling program. She said time-

Baseball Continued from page 1B

Photo by ALWCA

By BOB LABBE bob@themadisonrecord.com

Dallas Cowboys chaplain and former player to headline FCA Team Celebration in April

Bob Jones High School AFJROTC defeats Caney Creek NJROTC

By GREGG PARKER gregg@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – This season has been filled with gratifying returns from competition for the Air Force Junior ROTC or AFJROTC at Bob Jones High School.

Their latest contest was the 2023 National Air Rifle New Shooter League. Shooting their highest score of the season, Bob Jones AFJROTC defeated Caney Creek Navy Junior JROTC. Bob Jones’ score was 877.1, compared to 798.6 for Caney Creek.

This event was Bob Jones’ second win in a row. Elizabeth Lee led Bob Jones with a score of 226.0. “The remaining contributing members were Aaron Chen, Carson Drake and Taylor Turpin,” Bob Jones coach CMSgt. Ellis Q. Clark said. Overall,

Tax relief

Continued from page 5A we may be looking at a situation where the local school boards and school systems will all be looking for replacement dollars for those federal dollars that have dried up and have gone away. And they’ll be coming to Montgomery wanting us to keep them whole so they can keep spending at the same level.”

“That’s another day, another problem but something that we need to make sure we have

Hobby

Bob Jones is ranked 47th. They have a 3-1 record. Abrham Hernandez, who shot a 242.7, led Caney Creek NJROTC. The remaining contributing members were Leland Orvis, William Clary and Sierra Watson. Caney Creek NJROTC is from Conroe, Texas.

LCDR Raleigh Stahl coaches the group.

In its next meet, Bob Jones will compete against Knob Noster High School from Knob Noster, Mo. Currently, Knob Noster has a 1-0 record. “Caney Creek NJROTC will compete against Milton NJROTC from Milton, Fla. Milton currently has a 4-1 record,” Clark said. These two teams are competing in the National Air Rifle ‘New Shooter’ League.

Sponsored by the Orion Scoring System, the league is a national team league that is exclusive to athletes in their first year

Newspapers

enough money to address some of that,” he added. “And some of that we will just have to say we warned you the federal dollars were not unlimited.”

Jeff Poor is the executive editor of 1819 News and host of “The Jeff Poor Show,” heard Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-noon on Mobile’s FM Talk 106.5. To connect or comment, email jeff.poor@1819News.com or follow him on Twitter @ jeff_poor.

Continued from page 5A

ries are in the forecast.

Beware!

There is one good thing about Fake Spring though.

It means Real Spring’s not far behind it.

As for me, I’m gonna put on my shorts and t shirt and head to the nearest grocery store to buy some milk and bread. After all,

snow flurries are in the forecast.

Joe Hobby is a comedian from Alabama who wrote for Jay Leno for many years. Find more of Joe’s stories on his blog: https:// mylifeasahobby.blogspot. com/?m=1. Also, follow him on Facebook at: Joe Hobby Comedian- Writer

Madison THE RECORD

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

of competition. The league includes teams from high schools and junior rifle clubs throughout the United States. During 10 weeks, each team competes in eight games. Each week, each team is paired with another team with a near-equal skill level.

“In each game, the teams compete in what is known as a ‘Three-Position Air Rifle’ match. The match is modeled after

Continued from page 5A cannot get from any other news source.

Local newspapers keep residents up to date on births and deaths; updates from local schools and stories about students who are making a difference; information on civic clubs, fundraisers, and community events; in-depth coverage on local sports teams; openings of new businesses and industries; and updates on arts and entertainment events.

A local newspaper’s focus is to make your community stronger and safer, and to encourage its readership to be more involved. These days, we hear a lot about

Our View

-

Olympic Rifle competitions but adapted to high school age athletes,” Clark said. Each athlete will shoot 10 shots in three different shooting positions — prone, standing and kneeling. Each shot is worth a maximum of 10.9 points. The sum of points scored in the 30 shots is the athlete’s total. The team score is comprised of the best four athletes’ results from each team.

transparency. Your local newspapers play an important role in making sure relevant information citizens need to make informed decisions is disclosed. They act as a form of communication between governments and the citizens they serve. They hold local governments accountable to the taxpayers. They are there to cover city council, county commission and school board meetings where decisions are made that affect your everyday life.

Lastly, a good newspaper is the record of a public voice. Articles on key issues affecting communities, letters to editors, and guest columns

Continued from page 5A

that’s what she said before Biden acted. Afterward, she was on board for the ride, releasing a statement that said: “President Biden’s bold action is a strong step in Democrats’ fight to expand access to higher education and empower every American to reach fulfillment.”

But which of these do we think represents Pelosi’s real judgment and which seems like political opportunism?

There is little doubt that student loan forgiveness is popular among a major Democratic constituency, and like virtually all government giveaways, the benefits are concentrated among a population that will notice them while the costs are dispersed among a much larger population that will not. And with Biden’s loan forgiveness plan currently blocked

by the courts, Democrats went into the 2022 midterms getting to have their cake and eat it too.

People with loans knew something had been done for them, but as yet no one had paid the cost.

But most of the justices on the high court seem to have little patience for the Biden administration’s arguments in favor of loan forgiveness. Their comments and questions last week during oral arguments indicate the majority agrees with Biden and Pelosi’s initial assessments, not their subsequent rationalizing.

Chief Justice John Roberts even remarked that the Biden administration now seems to be trying to do what the Trump administration tried — and failed — to do on immigration.

“This case reminds me of the one

offer citizens and elected officials alike the opportunity to share their views, their demands and grievances, their criticisms, and their appreciation of governmental activities.

By offering a place to air complaints and discuss problems, newspapers help strengthen the bonds of their communities, and facilitate the exchange of ideas.

So, don’t believe everything you hear about newspapers going away. There are 109 voices in Alabama that disagree.

Felicia Mason, APA Executive Director

Darrell Sandlin, APA President

we had a few years ago under a different administration, where the administration tried acting on its own to cancel the Dreamers program, and we blocked that effort,” Roberts said.

The best likely outcome for the Biden administration is that the court essentially punts on the underlying issues and rules that the plaintiffs challenging the plan lack standing. This is a distinct possibility given this court’s past, overly strict interpretation of “injury in fact.”

In that case, student loan forgiveness survives, but on a technicality, and some other body (perhaps the GOP-controlled U.S. House) could mount a new challenge.

But a win on a technicality doesn’t make the Biden administration’s cynicism any more palatable.

Students in AFJROTC at Bob Jones High School who defeated Caney Creek NJROTC included Taylor Turpin, from left, Cate Curry, Elizabeth Lee, Sarah King, Aaron Chen, Carson Drake, James Cairns and Matthew Rodriguez.