The Madison Record - March 13, 2024

2024 Madison Visionary Awards

Madison residents and business leaders named finalists for volunteerism awards

By GREGG PARKER gregg@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON -- Madison Visionary Partners or MVP has announced community finalists for the second annual Madison Visionary Awards.

The awards ceremony’s venue will be the SportsMed Club at Toyota Stadium in Town Madison on March 28 at 8 a.m.

The awards process celebrates the people who make

Madison a great place to live, work and play, according to MVP Executive Director Melanie Thornton.

“Madison Visionary Partners recognizes the role that volunteer service plays in building a stronger community. Volunteers are simply the glue that holds us together. It’s no surprise to anyone that lives here that the secret about Madison is officially out - more people than ever are moving

into Madison to enjoy our award-winning schools, more affordable cost of living, and vibrant, active community,”

Thornton said on their decision to recognize those who serve our community.

The organization accepted nominations for the second annual volunteer awards throughout the month of January for the awards of Youth Volunteer of the Year, Commu-

See MVP Page 4A

By ERICA THOMAS www.1819News.com

MADISON - The man suspected in the murder of Derek Franklin Wells, of Harvest, is now charged with sexual torture – sexual abuse using an inanimate object, in connection to the murder case.

Wells was found in a home at 1790 Capshaw Road.

“It appears that there was a physical altercation between both individuals who were known to each other, which ultimately resulted in the death of Mr. Walls,” the sheriff’s office stated in a press release.

The sheriff’s office cleared up information Friday after a television news station reported the victim was shot in the head. Investigators said the victim was not shot at all.

“In an effort to ensure accurate information is shared with the public about Sheriff’s Office investigations we want the community to know that Sheriff’s Detectives confirmed very early at the crime scene on Thursday that the victim was NOT shot, and the Sheriff’s Office never reported to the media or public that he was,” a post on social media stated. “As we reported the victim and offender knew each other and got into a physical altercation that resulted in the victim being injured. It appears he died as a result of those injuries. Detectives are awaiting autopsy results, but again we have confirmed that the victim was not shot.”

Lewter is being held in jail without bond for the murder charge in accordance with Aniah’s Law. He was given a $60,000 bond for the sexual torture charge.

Lewter is well-known among political circles, particularly within the Republican Party. The victim’s daughter, Shelby

See LEWTER Page 8A

Residents worried about proposed Belle Mina quarry

SMITH www.decaturdaily.com

LIMESTONE COUNTYJames Ella Troupe lives about a mile and a half north of Belle Mina near Madison in Limestone County where a rock quarry has been proposed and said she wor-

about pollution, roads and the overall well-being of every-

Troupe, 67, said her parents

have lived in Belle Mina for over 50 years and she worries for their health as well as the other residents of the community and her own due to the pollution she said the rock quarry will produce.

“The people that live there and are impoverished, they don’t have access to health care,” Troupe said. “They have asthma, sarcoidosis. With all of those chemicals, it’s just going to demean our life and our health. So,

I’m really opposed to it. … What about our health? What about our well-being?”

Grayson Carter & Son Contracting Inc. of Athens and Stoned LLC of Huntsville have applied to the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) for permits to construct and operate a rock quarry that would be located at 7440 Mooresville Road in the small community of Belle Mina.

ADEM held a public hearing

Thursday evening at Calhoun Community College’s Decatur campus so public comment could be heard and addressed by ADEM after the comment period ends later this month. Almost 200 people attended and about 25 people spoke. “The (quarry) applications submitted are adequate for us to get to this point,” said ADEM

See BELL MINA Page 4A

MVP Youth Volunteer of the Year finalists include: Andrew Crocker, Savannah Gaertner, and Finley Koswoski

Community Volunteer of the Year finalists include: Michelle Hyams, Denise Phillips and Sandy Weisner.

Philanthropic Businessperson of the Year finalists include: Cristie Clark, Captured by Cristie; Dr. Matt Gibson, Gibson Orthodontics, and Alice Lessmann, Signalink.

Strong’s bill, Biodetection Improvement Act, passes House

breakdowns in accurate and timely information sharing and lagging technological upgrades show that DHS has fallen behind.

Strong said the legislation will bolster U.S. biodefense by ensuring that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is positioned to combat bioterrorism threats.

“I am glad that my colleagues recognized the importance of this legislation and passed it unanimously. Threats from America’s enemies have continued to evolve and become more complex. The anthrax attacks of 2001 opened our eyes to a new threat landscape that included acts of bioterrorism,” said Representative Dale W. Strong.

In the wake of the 2001 attacks, DHS established a program called BioWatch, which monitors, collects, and tests air samples for biological agents likely to be used in a terrorist attack. However,

“As a first responder myself, I know the difference that early detection makes. This legislation will ensure DHS is fully leveraging every tool and resource to accomplish the goal of protecting Americans against bioterrorism. As our adversaries watch on, we cannot afford to fall behind, America’s security depends on it.”

Specifically, the bill will require DHS to do the following:

• Utilize the Department of Energy’s National Labs to develop new technologies related to biodefense.

• Develop a plan to acquire existing technologies to meet DHS’ biodetection mission needs.

• Conduct external evaluations to identify gaps and potential failure points.

• Submit a report to Congress outlining a defined plan for the future of biodetection.

Journey

Keep your hands on the wheel: New state law focuses on distracted driving

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

STATEWIDE - A new state law seeks to drive down motor vehicle-related fatalities caused by distracted driving.

In 2022, almost seven percent of all motor vehicle-related fatalities in Alabama were caused by distracted driving. The Alabama Legislature responded in 2023 by passing a law intended to slow the increasing number of people being killed by distracted drivers.

Beginning in June 2024, state and local law enforcement officers can issue tickets to anyone observed making a call while holding a cell phone, or while holding a cell phone to text, search the internet, use a video function or for other activities. In other words, cellular devices are no longer permitted in drivers’ hands, and if they are caught, they are subject to a misdemeanor traffic offense, a fine and points on their driving record. Drivers can only use a single button or swipe of a finger to answer a call.

The hands-free law was

passed with a one-year grace period with written warnings until June 2024, when the grace period ends. Alabama’s new hands-free law is a secondary offense, meaning you first must be observed committing any other traffic offense to receive a citation.

“Distracted driving is one of the fastest growing safety issues on the roads today,” said Allison Green, Drive Safe Alabama coordinator for the Alabama Department of Transportation. “Distracted drivers aren’t just a threat to themselves; they are a danger to everyone else on the road.”

First offenses will cost drivers $50 and a point on their driving record. The second offense will increase to $100 and two points if the driver violates the hands-free law within 24 months of their first offense. And if drivers haven’t learned their lesson after three citations, it will cost them $150, and three points will be added to their driving record.

The new hands-free law was passed in memory of Leah Grace Tarvin, CiCi

Lunsford and Jay Kendall, three Alabamians whose tragic deaths were concluded by investigations to be related to distracted driving.

ALDOT shares these tips on how to go handsfree:

1. Use Hands-Free Technology – Use Bluetooth devices or dashboard mounts to keep your phone accessible but out of your hands.

2. Plan Ahead – Set GPS navigation and music playlists before starting your car to minimize distractions while you are driving.

3. Silence Notifications – Turn off notifications, use a “do not disturb” setting or put your phone in airplane mode so you aren’t tempted to look at your phone while behind the wheel.

4. Pull Over if Necessary – If you must use your phone, drive to a location safely off the road, like a parking lot, before putting your phone in your hand.

5. Put Your Phone Away – The simplest way to comply with Alabama’s hands-free law is to ignore your phone. Place your

USS Oklahoma sailor from North Alabama killed in WWII identified and brought home

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

WASHINGTON - The Defense POW/ MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) announced Monday that Navy Seaman 2nd Class (S2c) Cecil H. Thornton, 21, of Rogersville, AL, killed during World War II, was accounted for on April 16, 2019.

On Dec. 7, 1941, Thornton was assigned to the battleship USS Oklahoma, which was moored at Ford Island, Pearl Harbor, when the ship was attacked by Japanese aircraft. The USS Oklahoma sustained multiple torpedo hits, which caused it to quickly capsize. The attack on the ship resulted in the deaths of 429 crewmen, including S2c Thornton.

From December 1941 to June 1944, Navy personnel recovered the remains of the deceased crew, which were subsequently interred in the Halawa and Nu’uanu Cemeteries.

In September 1947, tasked with recovering and identifying fallen U.S. personnel in the Pacific Theater, members of the American Graves Registration Service (AGRS) disinterred the remains of U.S. casualties from the two cemeter-

ies and transferred them to the Central Identification Laboratory (CIL) at Schofield Barracks. In their analysis, CIL personnel could only identify 35 men from the USS Oklahoma at that time. The AGRS subsequently buried the unidentified remains in 46 graves at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (NMCP), known as the Punchbowl, in Honolulu. In October 1949, a military board classified those who could not be identified as non-recoverable, including S2c Thornton. In 2003, renewed efforts to identify the Unknowns of the USS Oklahoma began with the exhumation of one of the 46 graves. In 2015, DPAA received the approval to exhume the rest of the Oklahoma Unknowns from the NMCP, which were accessioned into the Laboratory for identification.

To identify Thornton’s remains, scientists from DPAA used dental and anthropological analysis. Additionally, scientists from the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System used mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) analysis.

S2c Thornton was buried Monday in Rogersville.

phone in the glove compartment, in your purse or in the backseat. If your phone is out of sight, the road is first thing on your mind and in your sight.

Ledbetter: Alabama Legislature is committed to protecting IVF

By REP. NATHANIEL LEDBETTER

Alabama House Speaker

MONTGOMERY - When the Alabama Legislature adjourned for the weekend on February 15, plenty of challenging issues were already waiting for our return the following week. The House was preparing for a vote on the CHOOSE Act and other priority items. The Senate was working on issues like election security and legislation dealing with DEI. The session was well underway, and both chambers seemed to have found their respective grooves.

That changed on Friday, February 16, with the Alabama Supreme Court Ruling on in-vitro fertilization (IVF).

The ruling led to a chain reaction of unintended consequences for our state. The first was that it forced many of Alabama’s IVF clinics to shut down overnight. This meant that the hundreds of hopeful parents who had in-

MVP

Continued from page 1A

nity Volunteer of the Year, Philanthropic Businessperson of the Year, and Madison Visionary of the Year.

Madison residents have nominated the following individuals in award categories:

YOUTH VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

Andrew Crocker – Senior, Bob Jones High School. National Merit Finalist; Council of Presidents; SALT; Ambassadors President; Senior and Junior Class President; National Honor Society, Service Project Coordinator; Operation Inasmuch, organizer (prepared and packed 50,000-plus meals for local families); Alabama Boys State delegate; Eagle Scout; First Baptist Church, audio/visual lead, Praise Band leader and choir.

Savannah Gaertner - Senior, Bob Jones. Patriot Band Color Guard and Winter Guard; Student 2 Student; Best Buddies International/Madison City Friends; National Honor Society; Family, Career and Com-

vested their time, money and prayer into this process were put on what could have been an indefinite hold. And finally, the responsibility to fix this issue was shifted to the Alabama Legislature. The ball was tossed into our court, and we had to get this right for the people of Alabama.

From the moment I was made aware of this ruling, doing whatever was necessary for Alabama’s IVF clinics to reopen and continue bringing new life into this world became my top priority. This was my responsibility as a lawmaker, but as someone who has family members in this world thanks to God’s grace and IVF, it meant much more. Everyone I have spoken to about this issue, both House and Senate colleagues and constituents alike, share a similar personal attachment.

I have listened to stories of sons, daughters, grandsons and granddaughters conceived through IVF who are beautiful

munity Leaders of America; Future Teachers of Alabama; State of the Student; National Athletic Honor Society; Peer Helper; Special Education, receptionist; Mentor; Faith Lutheran Church, volunteer and group leader. Finley Koswoski – Senior, James Clemens High School. American Legion, Post 229 and Auxiliary Unit 229; Rotary Club of Madison; Girl Scouts, Troop 212, Gold Award for walking tour app of historic, downtown Madison; National Honor Society; Family Career and Community Leaders of America; 400plus documented service hours in four years of high school.

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

Michelle Hyams -- House of the Harvest, The Perfect Blend, Madison Friends (formerly Best Buddies), Asbury Thrift Store.

Denise Phillips -- A New Leash on Life, pet adoption center and thrift store.

blessings to their families. I also heard from plenty of rightfully scared and angry Alabamians who had a daughter or loved one going through these treatments at the time of the ruling, and their messages were received loud and clear.

While the national media set its sights on criticizing Alabama and politicians in D.C. lined up to take their shots, the Alabama Legislature remained focused and got to work. Instead of adding to the problem, members of the House and Senate dedicated themselves to finding a solution and protecting IVF in our state.

I have always felt that the diverse professional backgrounds we have in the Alabama Legislature are one of our strongest features. Like we have many times before, we turned to the members with professional experience relative to the issue. In this case, Dr. Tim Melson took the lead in the Senate while Rep. Terri Collins coordinated in the

Sandy Weisner -- Madison City Community Orchestra, Founder and Director; Madison Methodist Church, Director of Worship and Fine Arts, Sunday School teacher, hand chimes.

PHILANTHROPIC BUSINESSPERSON OF THE YEAR

Cristie Clark, Captured by Cristie Media Co. -- Kids To Love; Madison Street Festival; Aum Foundation; Huntsville Good Samaritans Ministry, 501(c)3; Knight’s Village; Redstone MWR; City of Madison winning photo; Madison Chamber of Commerce; Rocket City Mom; North Alabama War Dawgs; Goodnight Ugly (Youth Faith Ministry); Freedom Cowboys Cheerleaders. Matt Gibson, Gibson Orthodontics -- Athens Market Day; Journey Middle School, first faculty tailgate; Madison Street Festival; Horizon Elementary School, Harvest Fest; Discovery, Journey and Liberty middle schools, faculty breakfasts;

In the little moments and major milestones of childhood, we are here for our patients and their families – helping, healing, teaching and discovering

Ledbetter

House.

In less than a week, both the House and Senate developed a well-coordinated plan to pass companion bills granting our IVF clinics immunity from prosecution. Our goal from the beginning was to pass legislation that cements IVF within Alabama’s culture of life, and immunity protection for clinics gives us time to figure out the best way to do so. It allows our clinics to reopen their doors and continue serving hopeful parents while the men and women of the leg-

Midtown Elementary School, 12 Days of Christmas faculty breakfast; Madison Elementary School, Woot Woot Wagon; Horizon Holiday Market; Athens High School, Cheer Clinic T-shirts and gear booth at football game. Alice Lessmann, Signalink Inc. -- Madison Board of Education; Bob Jones Hackathon; Bob Jones sports teams; Madison Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities or CEO; Madison Chamber of Commerce events; Still Serving Veterans; Legacy 4 Korean War Veterans Foundation; Madison American Legion, Post 229; Liz Hurley Ribbon Run for breast cancer research.

In addition, the awards ceremony will include presentation of recipients of Community Impact Grants, also in its second year. MVP is granting $10,000 to local nonprofits for programs that will benefit Madison residents.

“One of the elements of Madison’s success is its people, and

Belle Mina

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Chief of External Affairs Lynn Battle. “ADEM is looking for comments based on the technical issues in the permit. Anything other than the technical issues are outside of ADEM control. So, what we will do ... is take all of the comments, review them — it’ll take a period of time to go through all the comments — and then a decision will be made.”

Battle said the technical issues would be permit conditions related to air and water issues. She said ADEM is pleased with the public participation, and they want the public to have a voice in the matter.

Belle Mina is on the west side of Mooresville Road and is heavily traveled. Troupe said she worries about how the quarry will affect road conditions.

“Mooresville Road is a major thoroughfare from (Interstate) 565 to U.S. 72,” she said. “So, not only are we going to be impacted, but the people that are going to their jobs, to the interstate, that’s a potential threat. The roads are already small, they haven’t been kept up, so that poses an impact to everybody that travels up and down that road, not only us.”

Troupe did not speak at the hearing but said she has been active in fighting the proposed quarry.

“I have been to almost every (Limestone) County Commission meeting. I’ve spoken to them, I’ve sent emails, I’ve sent texts,” she said. “I organized a drive for my church; we sent hundreds of letters to ADEM. So, I’ve been really, really active in the background.”

Troupe said neither she nor her parents would be able to move if the quarry is approved, potentially hurting property values.

“Where are we going to go, with the property value in the Huntsville Metro area,” she said. “They’re not going to get enough for their property to afford any place else.”

George Erskine, 62, from Athens, was at the hearing. He attends New Heaven CP Church in Belle Mina, which is about 2 miles from the proposed site, and he said he has concerns about the quarry.

“Our church is old and when they talk about all this blasting and stuff, I’m so concerned about the structural founda-

islature navigate a very complex issue.

Alabama’s IVF clinics came under attack 20 days ago. During this time, our people have faced uncertainty and fear and rightfully demanded that we do something about it. Five legislative meeting days later, Gov. Kay Ivey signed into law what very well could be the session’s most important bill. This is how government is supposed to work, and I could not be prouder of how the Alabama Legislature has handled this issue.

Our people believe in fostering a culture of life, and for many parents, IVF was the miracle that led to their greatest blessing. IVF is as pro-life as it gets, and I am committed to ensuring it is always an available option for the people who call our great state home.

State Rep. Nathaniel Ledbetter is the Speaker of the Alabama House of Representatives. - From 1819 News.

MVP thought it fitting to honor the volunteers who work every day to build community in our city,” Thornton said. “We have many people doing good and, most often, they’re the ones working behind the scenes. What better way to bring them in the spotlight than through these awards?”

In the April 2024 issue, “Madison Living Magazine” will feature visionary award finalists and winners.

Madison Visionary Awards highlight a key element in MVP’s mission as Madison’s community nonprofit. Along with large-project fundraising, MVP is working to build a network of volunteers who want to bring small projects, events and programs to Madison.

For more information, call 256-384-4358, email Melanie. thornton@mvpmadison.org or visit mvpmadison.org.

Tickets will be sold through March 22. For tickets, visit mvpmadison.org/visionaryawards.

tion of our church,” Erskine said. “And people’s homes, also.”

Erskine said he is also worried about pollution.

“The fish in the creeks around here, contamination,” he said. “It’s just a terrible thing for this small community.”

Erskine said he has emailed his concerns to ADEM.

“I’m hoping that it doesn’t come, but if it does, I’m hoping something good will come out of it, like the road issues,” he said. “They could pave the roads better or whatever. So, something good may come out of it I hope, but I hope it doesn’t come.”

The quarry would generate more than $134,000 in tax revenue a year and create 16 jobs, according to a filing with ADEM.

In a statement Friday, ADEM Director Lance LeFleur said “it is important to understand that ADEM, by law, cannot make any determination about whether a quarry is a good use of a particular piece of land. That land-use determination should be made at the local level.”

He said many comments ADEM receives are not relevant to whether a permit should be issued.

“In the case of quarries, residents often express concerns about property values, noise, traffic and other issues that ADEM cannot regulate,” Le Fleur said. “That is why it is important for residents to engage their local officials. Zoning ordinances, building codes and construction permits are rightly vested in local communities and their elected leaders who are positioned to make those land-use decisions.”

The public has until 5 p.m. on March 22 to submit comments to ADEM on the proposed quarry.

“After that, the issues will be addressed. The staff will review all of the comments and compile a report and then a permit decision will be made,” Battle said. “I don’t know exactly how long that will take, but it will be a thorough review. … We will handle this review as quickly as possible.”

Comments should be sent to Jeffery W. Kitchens, chief of ADEM-Water Division, P.O. Box 301463, Montgomery, Alabama 36130-1463 or water-permits@adem.alabama.gov.

Sundays on Walker’s Bend

By BRUCE WALKER Columnist

In this hectic, TikTok-connected, 24/7 news-collected, and Wi-Fi-selected world, you see more advertisements for Xanax and Zoloft than you do for milk and bread. With heads down, fingers tapping, and staring into a screen, the more we “connect” the more disconnected we are. Our digital culture is driving us all crazy. Some are already there. Look in your rear-view mirror, the rest of us are not far behind; made me think about my raising.

My main goal on those cold North Alabama winters was to make it to the only source of heat in our old farmhouse, a potbellied stove roaring with a hickory wood fire out in the kitchen. Pulling up my Levi’s I had to be careful not to sit down after backing up to the fire, those metal rivets were red hot! The smell of red-eye gravy and frying country ham straight from our smokehouse out back finished waking me. As I sat at the table, Mother would tousle my hair, Granddaddy sitting in his cane bottom chair at the head of the table, with his sweat-stained Stetson work hat hung on the back, poured hot coffee from his cup into a saucer and blew on it before he slurped it down.

A large brown box radio with exposed tubes glowing out the back, tuned to our local radio station, WVOK. With an auctioneer’s cadence, Joe Rumore would announce, “Cut and Canners are up one and three quarters, freshened heifers were trading at lower to market ratio, green beans continue to falter in indeterminate market conditions, will be right back after the sick and shut-in report with Ima Gabney, brought to you by the Dead and Deader funeral home.”

All the farmers in the valley tuned in, listening to every fast-paced word. This cryptic report determined their financial future just as surely as the Wall Street Report shaped the business world. When I heard that announcer’s voice on the radio, I knew

it was a school day. If I awoke and there was no radio playing or bacon sizzling, it was a Saturday, momma did not cook breakfast. You were on your own, I pulled back the white sheet covering the dining room table and helped myself to left over cornbread, strawberry preserves from Uncle Lester’s strawberry patch and fresh churned butter from our milk cow, Big T…. errr, “Old Bossy.” After Saturday morning chores, Granddaddy would whistle us up and we would all go to town for the afternoon. My cousins and I would race to see who would sit on the pick-up truck’s tailgate, dangling our legs over the edge, going down the gravel road into town. Brumley, Uncle Charnel’s coondog rode up front with his nose and ears jammed through the side window vent, tongue and cheeks flapping in the wind.

On the courthouse square, there was a cacophony of guitars, fiddles and banjos weaving intricate melodies with local singers adding to the audio tapestry, giving words to our shared Irish and Scottish histories in ballads, ditties, and hymns. “The Wind Blows Cross the Wild Moor” was a crowd favorite as it reminded us of a faraway place our grand and great grandparents had come from. Skillfully stitched, handmade quilts with red, yellow, and green squares competed for your attention among woven baskets, wooden bowls, and ladles. Our family and neighbors made these items considered household necessities; we bartered and traded among ourselves. “City” folk from Birmingham paid cash and called it folk art, displaying or hanging them on their walls. Every Saturday was a county wide family reunion, reconnecting with distant kin and neighbors. Across the square, preachers took turns dangling your feet over the eternal fire and in the same breath convincing you how wonderful heaven must be. Hanging over this whole affair, like a big gospel tent, was a delicious haze of hickory smoked BBQ mixed with the aromas of parching peanuts, pop-

A sweet St. Patrick’s Day

Luck o’ the Irish Mint Pie

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON - Even if you’re not Irish, a green treat like this Luck

o’ the Irish Mint Pie can get you and your guests into the festive spirit. With enough seasonal flavor to go around, this recipe makes two pies, so be sure to cut every leprechaun a generous portion.

Find more festive recipes at Culinary.net.

Luck o’ the Irish Mint Pie Makes: 2 pies (9 inches each)

• 3 3/4 cups heavy whipped cream, divided

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened

• 1 1/4 cups, plus 2 tablespoons, powdered sugar, divided

• 5 drops green food coloring

• 1 1/4 teaspoons vanilla extract, divided

• 1/4 teaspoon mint extract

• 1 bag mint chocolate candies, chopped, divided

• 2 chocolate cookie crusts (9 inches each)

• 1 bag mint chocolate candies

To make filling: In bowl of stand mixer, whisk 2 1/2 cups heavy cream until stiff peaks form.

Transfer to bowl.

In separate stand mixer bowl, beat cream cheese on high 2 minutes. Gradually add 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar and green food coloring; mix until smooth. Add 1/4 teaspoon vanilla and mint extract; mix well.

Fold prepared whipped cream

into cream cheese mixture. Fold 1 cup chopped mint chocolate candies into filling.

To make frosting: In bowl of stand mixer, whisk remaining heavy cream and remaining powdered sugar. Add remaining vanilla extract and mix until stiff peaks form.

Pour filling into crusts and smooth tops.

Fill decorating bag with frosting and pipe thick band around edges of pies. Then pipe circle dollops evenly around edges of pies.

Scatter 1 cup chopped mint chocolate candies in middle of pies. Place whole mint chocolate candies into each dollop of frosting around edges of pies.

Refrigerate until firm, 5-6 hours.

23

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

TRIANA – The Town of Triana will be hopping when families and individuals gather for a special celebration of Easter.

On March 23, town officials will present “Egg Hunt and Senior Brunch” for residents to enjoy. The event will open at 10 a.m. and continue to 1 p.m. at 640 6th St. in Triana.

The Easter Egg Hunt will have two different sessions to accommodate varying ages. At 10.a.m., the hunt will be open to infants through toddlers who are two years old. Afterwards, the fun will switch to older

kids at 10:30 a.m. The Egg Hunt will be held at at Triana Public Library, 357 Record St. Senior citizens can enjoy being treated to a brunch at 11 a.m. After lunch, guests will have a chance at their luck with a raffle. The guests also can enjoy a game of bingo. Music will fill the air during the day.

In other activities for the children, face painting will be offered. For some exercise release, the kids can play and jump in ‘bouncy houses.’

For the Egg Hunt, sponsorship opportunities are available. Individuals are encouraged to donate in support of the celebration. Event organizers ask for people to volunteer to help

Artificial Intelligence Research Collaborative to launch March 20

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

HUNTSVILLE – In promotion of Artificial Intelligence or AI for regional businesses, an upcoming launch ceremony for a new initiative is scheduled at the University of Alabama in Huntsville or UAH.

Interested individuals are welcome to attend the unveiling of the AI Research Collaborative or ARC on March 20 from 2 to 5 p.m. at the UAH Invention to Innovation Center or I2C.

The event will feature the session, “Weighing the Capabilities and Workforce Impacts of AI on the Tennessee Valley,” in ARC’s “Future Technology” series. I2C is leading the support for ARC,

according to Rigved P. Joshi, Director of I2C at UAH.

“ARC will focus on three pillars: Education and Training, Employment, and Economic Development in the North Alabama region,” Joshi said. “By driving multifaceted partnerships between academia, industry and government, ARC aims to advance the science of Artificial Intelligence and enable its practical applications in research, innovation and problem-solving.”

“Serving as a neutral and trusted platform, ARC (is advocating) its goal to position North Alabama as a hub for distributed and collaborative AI research,” Joshi said.

ARC’s mission is to drive in-

during the day. In addition, business owners can showcase their services or products during the celebration. Civic and non-profit organizations are welcome to set up tables to discuss their goals and community work with attendees.

The Town of Triana is committed to providing non-discriminatory services to all eligible participants, including students with disabilities, in compliance with Title II, Americans with Disabilities Act.

For more information about the Egg Hunt and Senior Brunch, call 256-772-0151 or email bbyrd@townoftriana.gov.

Madison Newcomers and Neighbors Club to meet March 14 at the YMCA

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – The Madison Newcomers and Neighbors Club, a Women’s Social Group, will meet Thursday, March 14, at the Hogan Family YMCA, 130 Park Square Lane in Madison. Social time will begin at 9:45 a.m. with the meeting promptly starting at 10 a.m.

The speaker for the March meeting is Teresa Taylor-Duncan, a detec-

tive with the Madison City Police Department. Her presentation will focus on personal safety and scams.

Current residents as well as newcomers are always welcome to attend our meetings. They offer informative programs as well as a variety of fun activities which gives you a chance to meet new friends.

For more, call Martha Heard (256)772-9721 or Lisa Anderson (540)273-3239.

Madison History Association to host public meeting March 19 at the Madison Library

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – The Madison History Association will host an informative meeting in March about Madison’s past. The meeting which is open to the public, will be held Tuesday, March 19 from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Madison Public Library Room #1.

The topic will be: “Dining in Early America An-

alyze cooking and dining traditions in the American home in the 18th and early 19th centuries”. It will be presented by Miranda Cassell with the Daughters of American Revolution (DAR) Madison Rainbolt Chapter. Ms. Cassell is a DAR Museum Correspondent Docent. All of our meetings are open and free to the public. Microphones are provided for speakers.

novation, research and development while nurturing an inclusive and dynamic AI ecosystem in North Alabama. “ARC aims to be the catalyst for educational and economic growth, employment opportunities and collaborative research endeavors in the AI domain,” Joshi said. The launch event will open

at 2 p.m. with networking opportunities. UAH President Dr. Charles L. Karr will introduce keynote speaker Gen. (ret.) Gustave Perna. Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle will address the audience at 3 p.m. A panel discussion will evaluate workforce impacts of AI on the Tennessee Valley with

will

moderator Jeff Gronberg, CEO of Decibel Research. Panelists will include Karr, Battle and Shon Manasco, Senior Counselor with Palantir.

The launch’s last hour will be devoted to product demonstrations and networking.

Madison executive Alice Less-

See ARC Page 8A

Madison Public Library offers range of activities from ‘speed friending’ to STEAM in March

By GREGG PARKER

gregg@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – Feeling a bit bored while waiting for spring to arrive? Break those seasonal blues with a trip to Madison Public Library.

Engineering will be March’s topic for “Homeschool STEAM” or ‘Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics.’ On March 13 from 1-2 p.m., homeschool students can engage in hands-on learning about ways that engineers solve design problems.

The session includes a ping-pong pickup challenge. RSVP at calendly. com/madisonstudio/homschool-steam-rsvp. For more information, email nbahr@hmcpl.org.

A craft for adults,

“Shrink Wrap” involves a colored drawing on special plastic that contracts and thickens when heated. The activity on March 14 from 3-5 p.m. requires registration; visit calendly.com/madisonstudio/ adult-craft-march. For information, email nbahr@ hmcpl.org.

you’ve wanted to read or your last selection. Participants will have five minutes each to chat with each new friend. This program is for adults only. Refreshments will be provided.

“Women’s History

Newton Haven, to finish The Golden Mile. The library audience will experience ODORAMA!, a gimmick from a scratchand-sniff map for each pub in The Golden Mile. The movie contains adult themes (language, humor and situations) and sci-fi violence and is recommended for 19-year-olds and older.

A hilarious farce with British undertones, “The World’s End” will air as “MAD Movie-A-Thon-ORama” on March 14 from 6-7:45 p.m. in Auditorium 1. Comedic actor Simon Pegg portrays Gary King, who reunites childhood buddies to conquer The Golden Mile, an epic pub crawl. However, King’s posse must sidestep the apocalypse in their hometown,

The auditorium opens at 6 p.m. for the movie at 6:30 p.m. The audience can bring snacks for the film. Ever heard of “Speed Friending?” Discover this approach to find new friends. On March 16 from 12:30-2 p.m., adults can meet someone to talk about a favorite book.

For speed friending, bring a new book, one

Month: American Women’s Fashion with the DAR” on March 16 from 3-4 p.m. will allow guests to trace American women’s fashion from 17601925. Daughters of the American Revolution are providing samples of their museum’s collection.

Other interesting programs are on tap: “Amazing Butterflies With a Master Gardener,” March 17, 2-3:30 p.m., life cycles and host plants for Mon-

At the University of Alabama in Huntsville, the Invention to Innovation Center

launch the Artificial Intelligence Research Collaborative or ARC on March 20.

People can enjoy entertainment, learning and social outings with visits during March (and throughout the year) to Madison Public Library.

MADISON EASTER EGG HUNTS • March 23 • Dublin Park in Madison • www.madisonal.gov/special-events

Don’t worry, be “Hoppy” this Easter! Join Madison Parks and Rec on Saturday, March 23 for Madison’s annual Easter Eggstravaganza and Special Needs Easter Event at Dublin Park! Kids ages 1-5 will hunt eggs at 9 a.m. Kids ages 6-10 will hunt eggs at 10:3 0a.m. Event activities include Inflatables, special eggs prizes, and photos with the Easter bunny. There will be a free shuttle service from Bob Jones High School to Dublin Park. Handicap parking ONLY at Dublin Park. The Special Needs Easter event begins at 1:30 p.m. and requires RSVP to attend by Sunday, March 17. Email Info.mcdab@gmail.com with name and age of participant. For more information, visit www. madisonal.gov/special-events or call 256-772-9300.

The Annual Ellen McAnelly Memorial St. Patrick’s Day Parade will be held March 16 at 11 a.m. in downtown Huntsville. It has been a Huntsville tradition since 1978. It was started by the owner of Finnegan’s Pub, Ellen McAnelly - a native of Galway, Ireland. Go to irishsocietyna.org/parade.php for more information and the parade route.

RAPTOR SHOW

March 14 • 1-2 p.m.

Huntsville Botanical Garden www.hsvbg.org

Don’t miss this fantastic all-ages program, a chance to get up close and personal with awe-inspiring live raptors. Discover their fascinating natural history and the crucial roles they play in our ecosystem. The show lineup includes a variety of raptor ambassadors, which might feature majestic owls, powerful falcons, magnificent hawks, graceful kites, impressive vultures, and majestic eagles.

FROG FINDER

SCAVENGER HUNT

March 11-16, April 1-6 Cook Museum of Natural Science www.cookmuseum.org

Hop on over to the Cook Museum and explore the Exhibits with the Frog Finder Scavenger Hunt during Spring Break. You might be toad-ally surprised by what you see!

ELLEN MCANELLY MEMORIAL ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

Storyteller Continued from page 5A

corn, pig skins and frying onions.

What interested my cousins and me, just off the square, was the Paramount Picture Show. We would quickly turn the dollar bill Grandpa had given us for chores into watching Sky King, Lone Ranger, Roy Rogers, or the Avenger and with the rest of it buy a Payday candy bar or a Moon Pie and a RC Cola. Walking through the chrome rimmed glass door on a sweltering summer day, a blast of freezing air would hit you and the sign painted on the plate glass window proclaiming “Air Conditioned” with ice cycles dripping was no exaggeration. The aroma of buttered popcorn filled the lobby and Mrs. Peabody, the ticket taker, would greet you with a monotone spiel of the movies playing and end it by looking over the top of her cat-eye classes and down her nose, admonishing us to be “quiet in the movies or I will tell your mother.”

Saturday night, back on the farm, we would take a bath and lay out our best clothes for church the next day. Sundays were a totally different pace on Walker’s Bend, even the early morning crowing of a rooster sounded righteous. There would be no radio playing, ball games or swimming in the Coosa River, just a hundred yards from our front door, this day was set aside strictly for the worship of the Lord. After church, we would gather at Grandma and Grandpa’s house; in-laws, outlaws, preachers, sinners and strays, there were never less than thirty or forty for the afternoon of food, music and visiting. No radios, iPads, iPhone, internet, or TV, just humans being humans, talking, listening, and enjoying

man with Signalink Inc. is involved significantly with this initiative. Lessmann participated with the Women in Technology//HSV or WIT//HSV Leadership Committee.

In addition, Signalink is primary sponsor for the toBE FUND Scholarships and Grants associated with WIT//HSV. A separate launch event is scheduled for March 27 for the 2024 toBE FUND Schol-

just being together. Uncle Lester and his boys would play their guitars, mandolins, fiddles, and banjos; we would tap our foot in time with the music, and others would join in and sing along to old hymns, ballads, and tunes.

Grandma, who played the piano at the church, would have her piano rolled out on the front porch, take off her wellworn white apron, drape it on the corner, and sit down to play and sing. Her favorite music was the St. Louis Stomping Blues. For us kids she would sing, “Old Mr. Duntherbeck, me thinks you’re very mean, me knows you’ll be sorry for the invention of dat machine, of course the cats and the long tail rats will never more be seen, ground into sausanger meat in Duntherbecks machine.” Then she would pound the keys, look up at my granddaddy, wink, and sing, “I’m a wild, wild woman and you’re a lucky, lucky man.” I was nearly grown before I understood what the adults were laughing about.

Some might have thought of us as parochial, restrictive, or just plain backwards; in fact, it was just the opposite. This place was a Spiritual, meditative, and peaceful oasis. You could travel to Tibet, India, or Santa Fe and would not find more refreshing and spiritual connections than the Sundays we spent with each other on Walker’s Bend. SELAH-(definition)-Think about these things.

Bruce Walker speaks regularly to a wide variety of groups. You may contact Bruce at bruce@brucestoryteller.com or visit his website www.BruceStoryteller.com

arship and Grant Awards.

Seating for the ARC launch will be limited, and organizers recommend that participants indicate their intent to attend. To RSVP, visit UAH_I2C_ARC. eventbrite.com.

Light refreshments and beverages will be available to the audience.

For more information, email i2c@uah. edu or visit uah.edu/i2c.

Annual Eggstravaganza returns to John Hunt Park on March 23

By STAFF REPORTS

news@themadisonrecord.com

HUNTSVILLE – Get your Easter baskets ready and hone your hunting skills as the third annual Eggstravaganza is returning to John Hunt Park.

One of Huntsville Parks & Recreation’s biggest annual events, the free community egg hunt for ages 12 and under is Saturday, March 23, from 9-11 a.m. Plenty of free parking is available at the Jaycee Community Building (2180 Airport Road SW) and the nearby Joe Davis Stadium site.

ARC Continued from page 6A Lewter Continued from page 1A

Library Continued from page \6A

arch and Fritillary butterflies; “Books & Ballet -- Storytime with the Huntsville Ballet,” March 20, 10:30-11:30 a.m., ballet member will read and interpret the story

by song and dance; and “Anime Matinee (At Night!),” April 4, 6-7:45 p.m., “The Girl Who Leapt Through Time.”

For more, call 256-461-0046.

In case of rain, the Eggstravaganza will move to the Jaycee Community Building.

Parks & Recreation Director James Gossett said this year’s event promises even more fun and excitement for families.

“This annual tradition continues to grow each year, and it’s just as fun for my department as it is for attendees,” he said. “It’s sure to be a fantastic time with activities the whole family can enjoy.”

Thorson, is raising money on GoFundMe for funeral expenses.

“My dad’s life was taken from him in the middle of the night on March 6th,” Thorson stated. “Due to this unexpected passing nothing was in place to help with

What to expect

The festivities kick off with the arrival of the Easter Bunny at 9 a.m., ready to greet his friends. Across the park, there will be over 15,000 eggs waiting to be found by eager children.

Besides the egg hunt, there will be a coloring area, games with prizes, a temporary tattoo station and photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny. Food vendors will have popcorn, ice cream, corn dogs, beverages and other treats for purchase.

Egg hunt schedule

Families are encouraged to arrive a bit early for the egg hunts, which will run according to the following schedule:

9 a.m. – Open to children with special needs

9:30 a.m. – Ages 5 and under

10 a.m. – Ages 6-8

10:30 a.m. – Ages 9-12

Follow Huntsville Parks & Recreation on Facebook or Instagram for event-related updates.

any of the funeral expenses. I would like to have a small service where everyone can get together in remembrance of my father.”

Lewter is considered innocent until proven guilty.

The Patriots hosted Hazel Green on a rainy Saturday, defeating the Trojans 9-8.

Booth, Bob Jones best Hazel Green at home

By CALEB ODOM caleb@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON - A 4-run bottom of the sixth inning would be enough to lift Bob Jones over Hazel Green 9-8 last Saturday at home in the scattered rain showers.

The Patriots were powered by their designated hitter Zach Johnson who would play first base and eventually catch the final out of the game full of twists and turns.

Johnson was a juggernaut swinging the bat with a 3 for 4 day that included 3 RBIs in the narrow victory.

The regular starting catcher ended up with the go-ahead base knock the other way in the sixth with two outs that would give Bob Jones that all-important insurance run heading into the top of the seventh.

“It felt good going oppo for once,” Johnson said.

The Patriots grabbed the lead with three runs in the bottom of the third, but Hazel Green came screaming back with six runs in the top of the fourth to make it 6-3 Trojans.

Bob Jones continued to chip away at Hazel Green with a run in the fourth inning followed by another run in the bottom of the fifth to draw closer to the Trojans who were clinging to the 6-5 edge.

By CALEB ODOM

caleb@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON - The James Clemens Jets had a productive past weekend at home and on the road, winning three of four games.

JC swept a double-header at home against Sardis High School last Thursday but took one of two up in Tennessee on Saturday with a win against Collierville and a loss to Houston High School. In the Saturday game at Collierville, James Clemens slayed the Dragons 10-4.

The Jets were down 3-2 through two innings before a 5-run explosion in the top of the third made it 7-3 JC.

Collierville would manage just one more run in the game as the Jets tacked on three more in the last two innings to roll to the convincing win. James Clemens was powered by the bat of center fielder David Sharp who went 2 for 4 with 3 RBIs in the victory.

Starting pitcher Cade McComb went 6 1/3 innings for the Jets where he allowed four runs on three hits with one walk and a handful of strikeouts.

Thursday Game 1: James Clemens 12, Sardis 5 James Clemens first baseman Satchel Wheeler helped lead the Jets to the victory in the first game of two at home with a 3 for 4 day at the plate

UAH garners sixth consecutive berth to NCAA Tournament

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.-

The UAH men’s basketball team has earned a berth to the 2024 NCAA Division II Men’s Basketball Championships as the No. 4 seed in the South Region as announced in Sunday night’s selection show.

This is the UAH men’s basketball program’s sixth consecutive NCAA tournament berth. Overall, UAH has been selected to compete in the NCAA postseason 16 times.

The 2024 NCAA Division II South Region Men’s Basketball Championships will again be held on the campus of first-seeded Nova Southeastern starting with quarterfinal matchups on Saturday, March 16.

As the No. 4 seed, UAH is pitted against fifth-seeded Embry-Riddle for Saturday’s first round matchup. Game times will be announced in the near future.

The berth to the 2024 NCAA Division II Men’s Basketball Championships is the UAH men’s basketball program’s sixth consecutive NCAA tournament berth.

Braden Booth swings at bat for the Patriots against Hazel Green.

The rest of the NCAA South Regional field consists of No. 2 seed West Georgia, No. 3 seed Florida Southern, No. 6 seed Clark Atlanta, No. 7 seed Lee and No. 8 seed Benedict.

Jets continue track dominance with 2024 Redcoat Invitational

By BOB LABBE bob@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON - If results are an indication, James Clemens owns high school track in Madison. For the second week in-a-row, James Clemens won a local track meet held in Madison completing a sweep of the two biggest track meets of the year held at the two local schools.

Earlier, the Jets won its own Early Bird Invitational while this time the squad won both the boys and girls divisions at the Redcoat Invitational hosted by the Jets’ crosstown rival Bob Jones with 26 medals overall, which included winning five relay events. The host Patriots of Bob Jones also fared well at their own event of 38 schools by taking home 22 medals during the daylong meet. For James Clemens, top individual performers were Zaria Parker and Luke Alverson, both of whom won two gold medals in individual efforts. Alverson, who has been named to the North Team for the eighth annual All-Star Week Cross Country race this summer, is a junior and won both the 800 and 1,600 meter events. Parker, a junior, pick up gold medals in both the 100 and 200-meter races.

In Girls, the final team scores included 1. James Clemens 142, 2.

Jets Continued from page 1B

with a pair of RBIs.

Thursday Game 2:

James Clemens 12, Sardis 4 A 7-run surge in the bottom of the fourth inning would be all the Jets

Bob Jones 116.5. In boys, the team standings were 1. James Clemens 160, 2. Bob Jones 101, 5. Madison Academy 51. Here are the medal winning events of the local schools: Girls: 100m- 1. Zaria Parker, 11, James Clemens 12.17; 200m- Zaria Parker, 11, James Clemens 25.14; 300m hurdles- 2. Zoey Harris, 11, Bob Jones 49.71, 3. Jolissa Coe, 12, Bob Jones 49.80; 400m- 1. Ella Carter, 10, James Clemens 1:00.89, 2. Jolissa Coe, 12, Bob Jones 1:01.30; 800m- 1. Jolissa Coe, 12, Bob Jones 2:26.96, 3. Claire Colo, 10, James Clemens 2:27.30; 4x100m relay- 1. James Clemens 50.11; 4x400m relay- 1. James Clemens 4:17.62, 3. Bob Jones 4:23.01; 4x800m relay- 1. James Clemens 10:21.88, 3. Bob Jones 11:21.44; high jump- 1. Jasmyne Rochelle, 9, Bob Jones 5-5, 3. Mya Lacey, 10, Bob Jones 5-0; pole vault- 1. Ashlyn Diehl, 12, James Clemens 9-9, 2. Joanna Crawford, 11, Bob Jones 8-0; long jump- 3. Trinity Milligan, 8, James Clemens 16-5; triple jump- 1. Trinity Milligan, 8, James Clemens 356.50, 3. Reynna Mayers, 12, James Clemens 33-9.50; shot put- 3. Mya Arthur, 12, Bob Jones 34-0; 4x100- 1. Bob Jones 1:01.16.

Boys: 110m hurdles- 2. Isaac Pollard, 12, James Clemens 15.91, 3.

would need to power past the Lions in the second game of the double-header.

Saturday Game 2: Houston 14, James Clemens 1 (5 Innings)

Patriots Continued from page 1B

Hazel Green was able to add a seventh run in the top of the sixth inning to lead by two runs, but the Patriots had some big bats looming in the bottom half of the inning.

Bob Jones second baseman Jacob Pearl’s RBI sacrifice fly scored Tanner Hermesch and cut it to 7-6 Trojans with two out. With Robert Chatman on base from an error, up stepped the ever-dangerous Patriots hitter Braden Booth who had struggled through the game in more ways than one.

Booth had made two fielding errors at shortstop and had also struck out looking twice as well in the game.

A fan in the stands had it correct as Booth stepped into the box.

“You are due One Seven, you are due!”

Even when he is having a lessthan dominant day, the Bob Jones senior standout has a presence about him.

It’s like there is a knowledge among the Bob Jones faithful that it is only a matter of time before Braden Booth is going to do something remarkable in a game.

So, it came as no surprise when Booth dropped that bat head with a silent fury that sent the ball pelting high over the fence in left field for a 2-run home run.

The Patriots shortstop didn’t budge from the batter’s box as the ball climbed past the outfield grass with ease and his team erupted with cheers from the dugout.

Just another day in the office for Booth who looks destined for the highest of levels in the years to

come with that clutch bat and powerful arm.

“The first few innings, just struggling overall,” Booth said.

“Coming through and hitting that home run to put us up was overall a great feeling.”

The 2-run jack made it 8-7 Bob Jones before Johnson added another run to that total with his third hit of the game.

Graham Seagraves started the game on the mound for the Patriots but was replaced in the fourth inning by Reece Cato who took Bob Jones the rest of the way until the final out of the seventh.

Hazel Green was looking to come back in the top of the seventh inning with a double by Bryce Zimmerman that would eventually score when Israel Navarro drove him in for an RBI double with two out.

As Cato appeared to be fading in the seventh, Bob Jones head coach Jared Smith was not messing around as he brought in the lefty newcomer Dillon Adkins to get the final out of the 1-run game.

A junior outfielder transfer from Baylor High School in Chattanooga was presented with a big moment early in the season to prove himself and close out a back-and-forth game with a massive out.

“He is really good,” said Johnson who caught Adkins in the seventh. “Hard fastball. A lot of runs and he just gets things done. He is just a pitcher.”

The University of Tennessee commit Adkins stood on the mound with the game hanging in the balance as Hazel Green batter Jaden Charles

We have more sports at

Masen Townes, 11, Bob Jones 15.92; 200m- 1. Zathian Webster, 11, Bob Jones 21.99, 3. Crishawn Willingham, 11, James Clemens 22.95; 300m hurdles- 1. Isaac Pollard, 12, James Clemens 39.96, 3. Ezion Rolingson, 11, James Clemens 41.55; 400m- 1. Crishawn Willingham 11, James Clemens 49.63, 2. Jackson Reece, 12, Madison Academy 50.28, 3. Elijah Wells, 10, Bob Jones 51.82; 800m- 1. Luke Alverson, 11, James Clemens 1:57.76, 2. Dylan Dryer, 12, James Clemens 2:00.36, 3. Jackson Reece, 12, Madison Academy 2:01.73; 1,600m- 1. Luke Alverson, 11, James Clemens 4:18.17, 2. Dylan Dryer, 12, James Clemens 2:01.73; 4x100m- 1. Bob Jones 43.44, 2. James Clemens 44.50; 4x800m- 1. James Clemens 8:41.19, 2. Bob Jones 8:53.13; high jump- 3. Jacob Parks, Bob Jones 5-8; pole vault- 1. Austin Abney, 12, James Clemens 12-0, 3. Hatch Lombardy, 9, Bob Jones 9-0; 100m2. Zathian Webster, 11, Bob Jones 11.02, 3. Caleb Sanders, 11, Bob Jones 11.36; 4x100m- 1. James Clemens 48.29; long jump- 2. Dylan Horton, 11, James Clemens 20-6, 3. Caleb Sanders, 11, Bob Jones 20-6; shot put- 1. Reese Baker, 12, Madison Academy 46-9; discus- 2. Micah Douglas, 11, James Clemens 138.2, 3. Samuel Monroe, 11, Bob Jones 129.4.

James Clemens had nothing for the Mustangs on Saturday as the Jets were held to just two hits in a game that was run-ruled after just five innings.

stepped up to the plate with a runner on second with two outs.

“Man, it was electric,” Adkins said.

“I warmed up earlier in the game, but we kind of started to get a leadout and I came in to close it and I did the job.”

Adkins pounded the zone with strikes and Charles whiffed for the final out of the game.

The fans cheered as Adkins looked into the dugout at his new teammates and he was full of energy for doing his part of the win.

“Since I have come in here, the team has treated me like family and it’s been good,” Adkins said.

“It felt good to get a win for the boys.”

Friday Game 1: Bob Jones 11, Westminster Christian 0 (5 Innings)

Bob Jones pitchers Jack Shaw and Cam Martin combined to hold Westminster scoreless with just two hits in a lopsided home victory that was run-ruled after five innings.

Friday Game 2: Bob Jones 7, Sparkman 1

The Patriots peppered their old rival Senators in the late game with two runs in the second, three in the third and two more in the fourth to win with relative ease.

Saturday Game 2: Thompson 10, Bob Jones 5

Bob Jones saw an early 3-0 lead disappear against the always formidable Warriors who tallied double-digits runs in the later innings to beat the Patriots.

Members of the James Clemens boys and girls track team hold the coveted trophies for first place in both divisions at the annual Bob Jones High Redcoat Invitational. Photo by Drew Bell, James Clemens High

Patriots defeated the nation’s No. 1 ranked team IMG Academy in Perfect Game Showdown

By BOB LABBE bob@themadisonrecord.com

HOOVER - The Bob Jones baseball program has been one of the top spring sport programs in Alabama making the post-season playoffs dating back to 1987. The Patriots have placed themselves through post-season play and finished state runner-up in both 2011 and 2019. All of the accolades will now stand aside as head coach Jared Smith, now in his ninth season, positioned his 2024 squad among the elite by defeating the MaxPreps defending National Champions to win the red bracket of the Perfect Game Showdown held at the Hoover Met Complex in Hoover.

The 11-6 victory over the IMG Academy Ascenders completed a four-game sweep in the tournament for the championship and presented the defending national champs its first loss in two years. The Bradenton, Fla. based team had a 36-game win streak into its battle with the Bob Jones Patriots.

“The IMG win is not only one of the biggest wins in Bob Jones history but also the state of Alabama,” said Smith. “This win will be talked about for years at Bob Jones. I told our kids that the only thing bigger than that would be a state championship, which is our next goal.”

Bob Jones put together a pair of four-run rallies in the third and fourth innings after trail-

ing 5-1 to the Ascenders who entered the game with a 110-7 record since 2019. Both Jacob Pearl and Braden Booth had two hits and two RBI’s each to lead the Patriots’ offense while senior right-hander Kai Kuroda tossed a complete game in seven innings giving up nine hits with two strikeouts.

In earlier tournament games, Bob Jones defeated Cartersville, Ga. with a walk-off 4-3 victory, a four-run sixth inning come-from-behind 8-5 win over Wesleyan Christian of North Carolina and an unusual double no-hitter game versus Peachtree Ridge where the Pats won by a score of 10-0 scoring 10 runs in the third inning without a hit. Booth tossed his no-hit game in the most unusual contest against the Georgia team. Booth (P, 6-1, 190, Sr), a Miss State signee, was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Pitcher.

“The players are extremely excited about the IMG win because not many players in the country can ever say that they beat IMG,” added Smith.

Bob Jones, coming off a 3612 Elite 8 performance in 2023, faced the Ascenders who have 15 Div. 1 signees on their roster. Tuition for the elite private school can be as high as $89-thousand. The Academy always has some of the most elite players from 10 states. In this case, the squad faced Bob Jones and suffered its

first loss to a public school since 2021. Additional Bob Jones players who posted outstanding play against IMG Academy included Tanner Hermesch (1-3, 2 RBI) and Myles Hammonds (1-4, 2 RBI).

“I think our players also know that we have to move on quickly to accomplish the other goals that we have set,” said Smith. “It’s been an awesome experience, and our kids deserve all of the recognition, honors and rankings that came with that win. I’m proud our kids got to experience it, but it’s now time to move on to the next part of our season.”

Madison Titans claim runner-up trophy at Southeastern Masters Swim Championship

as the champion team, dethroning the “dynasty team” which draws membership from the entire state of Georgia. The Georgia team responded this year by bolstering their ranks and sending 36 swimmers to the competition. In a close battle, Georgia finished with 1544 points, and the Madison Titans were runners-up with 1467 points. The 3rd place team was Auburn with 708 points, then the Gulf Coast Pirates with 587, and Central Alabama with 518, followed by 39 other teams.

Master’s Swim Meets are contested in age groups for both genders spanning every 5 years, with the exception of the youngest age bracket spanning seven years (ages 18-24). Four Madison Titans emerged as top point-scorers in their age brackets: Erin McCann claimed first place in each of her 8 events in the Women’s 18-24 division, Ali Meeks likewise swept

her 8 races in the Women’s 45-49 division, Peter McCoy won the Men’s 50-54 division, and Titans Head Coach Roger von Jouanne claimed 7 first places and 1 second place to win the Men’s 60-64 division. Coach Roger stressed how the team came together after multiple setbacks: “It seemed that everyone on the team had a significant bout of cold or flu in the span from Christmas to mid-January. Then when we were finally getting healthy, we lost another week of critical training due to ‘Sleetmageddon’. But in the end we accepted the circumstances that God had allowed, and we went down there and raced. I really loved the attitude that our team brought down to the competition!”

The swim meet opened with the 1650 Freestyle, with Titan Erin McCann surging to post a new Southeastern Zone Record in her age-group. Coach Roger notes that “Erin was instrumental in our team’s growth this year, with an amazing group of young swimmers joining our ranks. Erin has also been great about helping to coach the team, particularly on days when we focused on longer swimsets.”

Nearly 40 new Madison Titan Records were set by various

age groups, with Cara Sprintz (Women’s 35-39) and Ali Meeks (Women’s 45-49) leading the way with 8 records apiece. Additional Titans Records were established by (in alphabetical order): Emma Luigard (3 records; Women’s 25-29), Jewel Krings (1 record; Women’s 18-24), Terri Krings (2 records; Women’s 55-59), Erin McCann (5 records; Women’s 18-24), David Milburn (2 records; Men’s 60-64), Gail Reinecke (4 records; Women’s 70-74), Jason Schumacher (1 record; Men’s 2529), Roger von Jouanne (2 records; Men’s 60-64), and Haruki Yokochi (1 record; Men’s 70-74).

National Rankings in the top 3 were achieved by the following Titans in their respective gender/ age brackets (listed alphabetically): Rebekah Cline (2nd in 100 Back and 200 Fly, 3rd in 500 Free and 400 Individual Medley), Jewel Krings (1st in 50 Breast, 2nd in 100 Breast, 3rd in 200 Breast and 100 Fly), Erin McCann (1st in 200, 500, and 1650 Free and 200 Back, 2nd in 100 Free and 100 IM, 3rd in 50 Free and 50 Back), Derek Sprinz (1st in 200 Fly, 2nd in 400 Individual Medley), and Roger von Jouanne (1st in 400 Individual Medley, 2nd in 200 Free and 200 Fly, 3rd in 200 Back).

Coach Roger notes, “Even though we’ve had our championship meet

here in the Southeast, there are still plenty of meets remaining across the country this season, including the U.S. Master’s Championships. So our top national rankings still have the toughest challenges yet to come ... it will be exciting to see how our rankings hold up!”

The majority of Titans practices occur at Dublin Park in Madison, either at 6 am or around noon ev-

The Bob Jones baseball team proudly celebrates winning the championship trophy in the red bracket as part of the Perfect Game Showdown held in Hoover. The Patriots defeated the nation’s No. 1 ranked team IMG Academy in the finals.

Bob Jones senior baseball player Braden Booth shows his plaque he was presented by being named the Most Valuable Pitcher in the Perfect Game Showdown after he pitched a no-hitter in the elite team event.

Madison Titans pose after the meet in the Auburn Swim Stadium, with their hard-earned 2nd place team trophy. Pictured from

left to right: (approx front row) Heather Koehler, Gregg McAdams, Cindy McAdams, Heather McAdams, Emma Bagwell, Rebekah Cline, Roger von Jouanne, Jewel Krings, Cara Sprinz, Sally Chu, and David Milburn; (approx back row) Byron He, Dan Hill, Jason

Schumacher, Ali Meeks, Lauran Risany, Dave Berry, Erin McCann, Terri Krings, Kelly Williams, Emma Luigard, Haruki Yokochi, Karl Keiser, Derek Sprinz, and Peter McCoy. Not pictured: Lauren McAdams, Gail Reinecke, and Grace Palenapa.

Patriots host conference of future teachers in Tuscaloosa

By GREGG PARKER gregg@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – For the annual Future Teachers of Alabama Statewide Conference, Bob Jones High School’ chapter hosted more than 1,200 future educators on the University of Alabama campus on Feb. 20.

Delegates from 105 Alabama chapters heard speakers about the education profession and visited college representatives.

Reagan Burgess from Bob Jones served as FTA State President, an office won in 2023. “It was such an honor to be voted as president of this organization by my peers,” she said.

With support of Alabama Ed-

ucators Alliance this year, Burgess planned and ran the entire conference – orchestrating regular board meetings; selecting breakout presenters; designing promotional materials, including the T-shirt; emceeing; and delivering multiple speeches. “It was definitely an exciting experience,” Burgess said.

Reagan Burgess, Karolyn Bodden and Annie Gehring were selected to represent Bob Jones’ chapter. “We intentionally formed a small group to ensure our capacity to fulfill the responsibilities of hosting the conference,” FTA Advisor Meagan Fleenor said. In Bob Jones Teaching Academy, Fleenor teaches “Education and Train-

Madison Pre-K, Early Beginnings pre-registration closes on March 15

By GREGG PARKER gregg@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – For consideration in initial selection, families must pre-register for Madison City Schools’

First Class Pre-Kindergarten and Early Beginnings programs by March 15.

Staff will add pre-registration requests received after March 15 to a waiting list. Pre-registration must include birth certificate and proof of residency by deed or rental contract, along with a copy of a utility bill. The child must reside in the City of Madison.

Acceptance into pre-kindergarten is handled strictly by random drawing, scheduled for March 27, 2024, at 9 a.m. during Madison Board of Education’s meeting, available by livestream. To view Limestream, visit madisoncity.k12al.us, and click the “Our District” dropdown menu and “Board of Education.” Then, click “Board Meeting Livestream.”

The staff will email notices (or mail letters) of acceptance by April 18. The child must be four years old by Sept. 1, 2024. Tuition is income-based on a sliding scale.

Pre-kindergarten students report to West Madison Pre-K Center at 4976 Wall Triana. Their school day covers 7:50 a.m. to 2:20 p.m. Bus transportation is not available.

After check-in for the day, pre-kindergartners have a morning meeting, read-aloud session, music and movement and time in a learning center until dismissing for recess from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Another time for read-aloud starts at 10:40 a.m., followed by 15 minutes in small groups.

The students clean up for lunch at 11:15 a.m. and have recess from 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. After a bathroom break and cooldown time, the children take naps from 12:45 to 1:45 p.m.

After napping, they have a snack. Their closing activity and last round of read-aloud lasts from 2:05 to 2:15 p.m. Students in after-school care are dismissed at 2:15 p.m., followed by car riders at 2:20 p.m. In a learning center, children realize the concept of ‘safe place’ to feel and handle big emotions. Their play, or “work of childhood,” can involve building blocks, dramatic play, art, math, shapes/ colors, alphabet, science, writing and the sensory table for experimenting (Dr. Jean’s Website, modified for MCS PreK).

For more information, email snphillips@madisoncity.k12.al.us or melissa.mims@madisconcity. k12.al.us. Visit madisoncity.k12.al.us, and click the “Academics” dropdown menu. Then, click “Preschool.” In the list to the left, click “First Class Pre-K.”

Another classroom program, Early Beginnings Preschool accommodates students with and without disabilities. Three-yearolds are eligible if the child qualifies for a disability and for special education services; otherwise, the child must be four years old by Sept. 1. The child must live in Madison.

Students in Early Beginnings attend Mill Creek and Rainbow elementary schools from 7:40 a.m. to 2:10 p.m. The staff will notify parents about acceptance by April 18. For more information, email jndrake@madisoncity. k12.al.us.

Pre-registration for the HIPPY program, or Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters, is open until May 31. HIPPY promotes home-based, parental involvement for preschool students with and without disabilities. For an application form, visit madisoncity.k12. al.us. For more information, email snwilliams@ madisoncity.k12.al.us.

ing,” “Teaching I,” “Teaching II,” “Teaching Internship” and “Mental Health and Counseling.”

Numerous breakout sessions delved into educators’ pressing issues. These sessions included “Integrating Media Into Lessons: PBS for the Classroom,” “Mathematics Literacy Through Social Justice,” “Supporting Deaf Students for Success,” “Gandhi - King Scholarly Exchange Fellows,” “Teaching in the Digital Age” and “Multiple Perspectives in Mathematics.”

Keynote speaker Elizabeth Huntley inspired students about education’s power to transform a child’s life, and every student

has a story behind their eyes.

“Reagan Burgess delivered a profoundly moving and inspiring welcome speech,” Fleenor said.

“In your 25-plus-year journey as an educator, you’ll have the privilege to guide anywhere from 500 to 5,000-plus students. Each student is more than just a number --they’re individuals. They need to feel seen, valued and safe in your classroom,” Burgess said in her speech.

“When you empower a single student to go beyond what they thought was possible, you’re not just changing their life -you’re changing the trajectory of countless other individuals .

Madison Visionary Partners presents grant to Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theater & Academy

By GREGG PARKER gregg@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – Help from Madison Visionary Partners or MVP will assist a popular outlet for children to delve into the fine arts.

MVP has awarded a Community Impact Grant for $2,500 to Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theater and Academy. The grant will assist Fantasy Playhouse in offering outreach programs that will impact Madison families, according to MVP Executive Director Melanie Thornton said.

Since 1961, Fantasy Playhouse has been a leader in arts education in North Alabama. The organization believes that no child should be denied access to quality education in the arts. Over the last decade, Fantasy Playhouse has actively solicited funding from grants, foundations and private sources to bring opportunities in theater arts education free of charge to at-risk students.

Theatre arts education builds life skills useful to all students, no matter their career path. Students gain skills in self-confidence, public speaking, creative problem-solving,

a team-oriented approach to work, time management, empathy and perseverance. Students who are engaged in the arts develop important aptitudes:

* Four times more likely to participate in his or her school’s math or science fair.

* 17 percent more likely to volunteer in the community.

* 21 percent more likely to vote at 18 years old.

* Twice as more likely to pursue and obtain a college degree.

Fantasy Playhouse used the Community Impact Grant for $2,500 from Madison Visionary Partners to augment the opportunities in theater arts for additional Madison families. Fantasy serves more than 11,000 students in Madison and Limestone counties.

The after-school theater programs that Fantasy Playhouse offers to students in grades K-5 have not only grown interest in theater programs at Liberty and Discovery middle schools but have led to increased theater participation at Bob Jones and James Clemens high schools.

Hands-on partnership with

Madison City Schools has allowed Fantasy Playhouse to act as a theater training program for the high school theater departments. An example of this relationship was a free peer-to-peer puppetry class for Bob Jones theater students as they prepared for a stage production of “Charlotte’s Web.”

Other public programs that further help Fantasy Playhouse to engage with the Madison community include the Madison Street Festival, “Fridays with Fantasy” at Dublin Park and summer camp at Bob Jones.

Founded in 2014 by community and business leaders, MVP functions as a community nonprofit organization that spearheads projects and initiatives to enhance the quality of life in Madison. “We are an apolitical, 501(c)3 organization and are governed by a Board of Directors,” Thornton said.

For more information about Fantasy Playhouse, call 256-539-6829, email info@fantasyplayhouse.com or visit fantasyplayhouse.org. For more information about MVP, call 256-384-4358, email info@mvpmadison.org or visit mvpmadison.org.

The Model UN Team at Bob Jones High School earned distinction as “Best Large UN Delegation” at the Alabama Model UN Conference XVI at the University of Alabama on Feb. 14-16.

Bob Jones High School’s chapter of Future Teachers of Alabama or FTA hosted the statewide conference at the University of Alabama. Reagan Burgess, in photo, served as FTA State President and coordinated the event.

Congratulations to the Discovery Middle School girls basketball team for clinching the county championship. The Madison Board of Education recognize the team and coach Vicki Burks at last week’s BOE meeting (March 7). The girls were lauded for their skills, character and stewardship both on and off the court. Flanking both sides are DMS Principal Mr. Jamie Hill (left) and Coach Vicki Birks. “We’re proud of what you did as a team. We know good things are ahead,” said Superintendent Dr. Ed Nichols. Panthers team members (pictured in no particular order) are: Scarlett Abbott, Nya Cox, Adeline Gabriel, Amari Garth, Evelyn Gauthier, Rhylee Gordon, Erin Henderson, Sierra Lewis, Arhianna Richardson.

with

John Rankin

The last cotton gin of Madison

By JOHN P. RANKIN Madison Historian

MADISON - On the east side of Garner Street and the south side of Martin Street, at 116 Martin Street, a house was built around 1880 for George Washington Martin’s son Berry Leeman Martin. Berry’s middle name was in honor of his mother’s father, William Leeman, owner of Leeman’s Ferry, which operated across the Tennessee River from a point beside the Civilian Recreation area of Redstone Arsenal now. That ferry business was the namesake of the Leeman’s Ferry Road in Huntsville. Berry married Mary Parker in Marion County, Alabama, on November 11, 1886. Berry was the Madison railroad depot agent in 1889 and the 1890s before his transfer to a station in northeastern Mississippi at Iuka in1898. Berry’s mother, Nancy Leeman Martin (wife of George Washington Martin, Madison’s first store owner and first Madison lot owner from February 1857), at age 60 was tragically struck and killed by the train in April of 1891 when she started to cross the old dual tracks near the depot at the Church Street and Main Street junction. One of Berry’s sisters, Hassie Martin (a twin of Hattie Martin) later died in December of 1917 in Ft. Worth, Texas, when a train stuck their automobile as she, her husband, and her son were crossing the tracks there. Another of Berry’s siblings, Logan East Martin, was struck and killed by lightning as a young adult. The Martin family had more than its share of tragedies, as well as joys.

When Berry Leemon Martin moved to Mississippi, his house was sold to Joel Lee Brewer, whose occupation was shown in the 1930 census as the owner of a farm. In the 1940 census, Joe Allen Brewer, a son of Joel (who died in 1938 and is buried in Maple Hill Cemetery) was shown as age 21 and single, living in the household headed by his mother Katheryn Ashford Watkins Brewer. Joe’s occupation at this young adult age was given as the manager of an unspecified cotton gin. Joe’s father Joel had served as Mayor of Madison, 1923-1927. Joel was born in Kentucky of a family with Colonial Virginia roots that had migrated through North Carolina before going to Kentucky. His father was John H. Brewer, and his paternal grandfather was John N. Brewer, who also lived in Kentucky and Tennessee. According to now-deceased family members, Joel owned and operated the Brewer Cotton Gin in Madison, located on the north side of the railroad tracks, just a short distance from the Martin-Brewer house at 116 Martin Street. Since Joel was deceased by the time of the 1940 census, apparently his wife owned the gin that year, and his son Joe Allen Brewer managed the operations of the gin.

This old cotton gin structure is the only one still standing in Madison, but just barely. It cannot possibly stand much longer as strong winds and storms come through the area. It is located immediately behind the Animal Trax store. Its remnants are also behind what was once the Glass Company (now abandoned also), immediately south of the North Alabama Gas Company office on Church Street. The old gin operated for years on the north side of the dual railroad tracks just east of the south end of Church Street from the old depot. Few citizens of today can recall that there were initially two sets of tracks in front of the depot and another running behind the depot, but old photos clearly show that was the case.

The depot was torn down after in 1957 according to a report in the Madison County Record newspaper of July 31, 1968. However, there are other historical records and memories of elderly folks of the town that indicate the depot was destructed in 1961, plus some other rationale that the date should be in the 1970s – but that could be because a mail-drop shed remained for service until about 1971. The 1961 date makes sense for the passenger side of the depot destruction because it is a matter of record that Herman Carter was the official depot agent from 1952 to 1961, and there was no depot agent after him. Today the Madison Veteran’s Memorial Park and the Roundhouse Replica stand where the depot had been. The original Roundhouse stood on the south side of the tracks, immediately east of the patio seating of the Main Street Café. Apparently, it was a very short trip to get finished cotton bales transported from the Brewer Cotton Gin to the loading docks of the railroad in Madison. The loading docks were positioned beside a third set of tracks that were laid behind the depot, where

Front Street is located today. In fact, old maps show that Front Street was initially called Railroad Street after the tracks were removed.

Joel Lee Brewer’s wife was Katie A. Watkins, daughter of James Albert Watkins and Martha Caruthers Martin. Martha (“Mattie”) Martin Watkins was a sister of Berry Leeman Martin and a daughter of George Washington Martin.

Joel Lee Brewer’s father-in-law, James Albert Watkins, was a trustee of Madison High School when it was incorporated in 1895. Joel and Katie Watkins Brewer are both buried in Maple Hill Cemetery in Huntsville. They produced five children -- Watkins Lee (never married); Martha Kathryn (married Andrew Lanier); Joe Allen (married Mary Belle Smith), Alice Elizabeth (married Henry Lee Hilson); and John Norman (married Mary Alice McCutcheon). Kathryn’s marriage to a Lanier was not the first of the interconnections of the Lanier family with the Brewer families. Their prominent family linkages have been numerous, going back to 1657 Virginia, when John Lanier arrived as the earliest ancestor of this Brewer family to arrive in America. Other significant ancestral linkages of the Madison Brewer family included of course Watkins and Martin, but also Maclin, Milliken, Goodman, Nimmo, and Reynolds.

Alice Brewer’s marriage to Henry Hilson produced Brian Hilson, who was for many years the President and CEO of the Huntsville-Madison County Chamber of Commerce. Alice preserved a store ledger from George Washington Wise’s store on Main Street, covering the period of 1888 and 1889. Her maternal grandfather James Albert Watkins had for a time worked as a clerk in the Wise store and later in the store of his fatherin-law, George Washington Martin. The ledger probably was a keepsake retained by James that was handed down. The leather-bound book contains over 262 pages and includes numerous clippings from old newspapers plus some magazine illustrations in color. It also has a few handwritten family event notes made by Mattie Martin Watkins, wife of James Albert Watkins and sister of Berry Leeman Martin of 116 Martin Street. The ledger shows the purchases (by date, name, price, and merchandise) of most of the “old timers” of the town in those years. The ledger has been digitally photographed and was included in the POTPOURRI section of the Madison Memories Collection DVD series offered by the Madison Station Historical Preservation Society more than 20 years ago. The images are also included in various data bases more recently given to the City of Madison and libraries in Huntsville and Madison.

By his first wife, Emma Pride (daughter of James Harvey Pride and Amanda Butler), James Watkins had three children. This may be the connection of the original tombstone of James Harvey Pride that has been used for years as a cover over the old cistern at 116 Martin Street after a larger and more impressive replacement monument was erected at the Pride grave in the Madison City Cemetery. Emma died after five years of marriage. She and her last-born child (a girl also named Emma) both died in early 1886. The first two children of Emma and James Watkins were Mattie Eleanor (married James Hugh Stone) and James Albert (married Mattie Lee Strong, an ancestral relative of our current U. S. Representative, Dale Strong). Two years after the death of Emma, James Albert Watkins Sr. married Mattie Martin, who lived to age 96. Mattie is buried in the old section of the Madison City Cemetery beside her husband. Her father (George Washington Martin) and mother (Nancy Leeman) are buried nearby, in the Martin family plot of the cemetery with a shared monument to mark their graves.

James Albert Watkins served as County Commissioner of District 5, Precinct 8, from 1900-1907. He would no doubt have served longer, but he died in office. His life illustrates the changes that the Civil War made in the Southern society. In the census of 1860, he lived with his parents.

After the war, the 1870 census revealed that he and his brother were living in a household headed by a blacksmith named Querlan Smith. In the census of 1880, however, he was listed as living in a household headed by an African-American man named Moses Moore. James’ occupation was listed as “Manages Farm.”

Since the farm was apparently owned by the African-American family, we can see in the situation a reversal of traditional roles from before the Civil War. The experience may have helped James to be a County Commissioner who served all

citizens of the county fairly and equally. The Watkins line in America included another James Watkins who accompanied Captain John Smith in 1608 on his travels through Virginia, when Captain Smith was rescued from death by Chickahominy Indian Princess Pocahontas. An ancestral relative of James Albert Watkins, Dr. John Watkins, was a member of the very first Alabama State Constitutional Convention, which was held in Huntsville in 1819. Madison’s James Albert Watkins was also linked by ancestral marriages to William Bankhead, U.S. Congressman of Alabama and father of Tallulah Bankhead, a famous movie actress who was born in Huntsville. William Bankhead was a great-grandson of Thomas Jefferson, our nation’s third President.

James Albert Watkins was likewise connected by marriage to Susannah Withers, wife of Clement Comer Clay,

eighth Governor of Alabama. He was additionally connected to Joseph Watkins of Georgia, who at age 20 invented an operable cotton gin that got the attention of Eli Whitney. Eli came to inspect the machine and figured out some improvements. Eli Whitney thereafter became recognized as the inventor of the system. Family tradition holds that Joseph was implored by his neighbors and relatives to take Eli to court, but he was content to just keep on farming. The Watkins family links to other notables of early north Alabama that include the surnames of Bibb, Pope, Walker, Clay, Hundley, Hughes, and Spencer. It would seem that the people who lived in or frequently visited close relatives in the house at 116 Martin Street had quite a wide range of prominent contacts, connections, and influence throughout the history of north Alabama and America in general.

Password is “Thank you”

By BECKY MILLER God’s Lemonade Stand

Yet you are enthroned as the Holy One; you are the one Israel praises. - Psalm 22:3

I was watching Saturday ‘Pray First’ live from Church of the Highlands in Birmingham, Alabama this past Saturday, when one of the campus pastors Matt Minor giving the message and leading prayers commented that the password to God’s presence was simply saying “Thank-You Lord”!

How incredibly awesome is that! Ponder on that for a few minutes.

In all things give thanks. Start your day even if not in the right mood by lifting up Jesus’ name telling him thanks for another day of life, for providing for your needs, for your family, for a nice neighborhood, and keep going I am sure if you look

around there is much to say thanks for. Just like you need a password nowadays for practically everything takes time and simply say thanks to have complete access and attention of the Almighty. Instead of whining about what you want or don’t have given him thanks. If you are sick thank him for healing that is coming. If you have a prodigal thank God that the prodigal will be back. (Romans 4:17). You get the idea. Don’t be sad be glad and know God is at work.

PRAYER: I need you Lord every minute of every day. There was a time I didn’t think I did but I woke up. I pray for those in my life that need a wake-up call to fall in love with you for the first time or again. 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.

By DAWN REED

Bears, bees, snakes, spiders. All things to flee.

I asked Stevie, who turns seven this week, to name something he would run from. “A T-Rex, a raptor, and a stegosaurus,” he answered without a pause.

“Can you think of something smaller?” I asked.

“Oh, ok, a baby T-Rex,” he replied. I laughed out loud.

There are other things we run from as we get older: problems, conflict, and these days…maybe social interaction.

Unfortunately, we can sometimes run from God-instead of running to Him. We can also run from His will. Jonah is a textbook example of how that can go. We may not get swallowed by a whale but will end up somewhere we never anticipated.

As a mom, youth Sunday School teacher, and Bible teacher at the jail and local rehabs, I have an extended list. Run away from abusive relationships. Run from those who drink.

(No one ever got smarter from alcohol.) Run from people who are using drugs. (I often encourage the young and not so young to go hide in a bathroom in an emergency situation.) Run from peer pressure, especially when there is pressure to have sex outside of marriage.

Genesis 39 tells of an intense time when Joseph (a slave) was being pressured daily by his owner’s wife to go to bed with her. Not once or twice, but day in, day out.

Even after explaining he would not do it and sin against God, she persisted. One day, she trapped him. No one else was around. Grabbing Joseph by his cloak, she demanded, “Come to bed with me!” But he ran out of his coat and the house.

While Joseph had done the right thing, Potiphar’s wife lied. She called for the other servants and dramatically announced that Joseph had tried to molest her. She held on to the cloak to inform her husband when he came home. Boy, was he mad!

Joseph, who had been sold into slavery by his brothers, was falsely accused, and then thrown into prison. He had done no wrong.

Knowing when to run

Genesis 39:20 records an important fact: “While Joseph was there in prison, the LORD was with him. He showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden.” God was stilling writing Joseph’s story, even in prison.

There’s lots of running in the Bible. In the New Testament, in 2 Timothy 2:22, Paul encouraged Timothy, “Flee (run away from) the evil desires of youth and pursue (chase) righteousness, faith, love and peace…”

Hebrews 12:1-2 coaches us, too, “Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus.” Throw it off like a cloak…and run with perseverance.

Solomon wrote, “The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe,” (Proverbs 18:10). In times of trouble, let’s run, not walk, to God!

Thank You, Father, that on good days and bad, I can always turn to You. Please give me strength to run away from things that are not good for me and straight into Your arms. Amen.

Teachers

Continued from page 4B

. . that doctor who saves lives, young politician inspiring change, future parents who will raise compassionate children,” Burgess said.

“Teaching might not be the most lucrative career, but how can you begin to put a price on the legacy you leave?” Burgess said. “Payment may come in a small child’s hug, a middle-schooler telling you that you’re the coolest person or in lightbulb moments when their eyes tell you they understood a difficult concept.”

“Let’s make a lasting difference, one life at a time,” Burgess said. “When you see the ripple effect of your teaching, know it all began with that one student.”

Fleenor was immensely pleased with the conference and her students’ perseverance. “My students . . . stepped outside of their comfort zones to inspire such a large audience. Their dedication and hard work were evident not only (at) the conference but also throughout the year.”

“These students were encouraging our future genera-

Swim

tion of leaders and teachers. Let us remember that the heart of education lies in human connection,” Fleenor said.

Burgess acknowledged that prospective teachers will encounter challenges or stereotypes, perhaps intimidating. “However, among the demanding workload and potential financial considerations, it’s important to recognize the opportunities for professional growth and financial advancement within the teaching profession,” Burgess said. An educator has multiple avenues for career advancement and income growth, Burgess said. “Teaching offers a fulfilling path filled with countless opportunities to thrive. The joy of witnessing students’ growth and success . . . is truly unparalleled.”

“Teaching isn’t simply a job; it’s a calling, driven by passion and dedication,” Burgess said. “By embracing both the challenges and rewards, educators find themselves on a fulfilling journey of inspiring and shaping the future generation.”

Continued from page 3B

ery weekday. Any swimmers interested in joining an organized practice, experiencing camaraderie with other swimmers, and receiving technical instruction, are welcome to attend practices.

According to Coach Roger, “The Titans are blessed to have a relatively large and spirited ‘swim family’, and we are continuing to grow. This year, we have two new swimmers who had never participated in a swim meet ... Lauren Risany and Sally Chu ... and they embraced the challenge and did very well down at Auburn. We have a lot of fun, and concentrate our competition around the largest Master’s Meet in the Southeast every year, which is the Auburn Meet in February. We are on the map as top contenders, such that the Auburn Meet Director has called us out and even provided the following editorial in his post-meet synopsis:

‘There was an intense battle between the Georgia Super Team and the Madison Titans for the large team trophy. The Titan women edged the Georgia women, but the Georgia men outscored the Titan men by a larger margin, throwing the 2024 large team trophy to Georgia.

The Titans won the Large Team trophy in 2023 with Georgia in second place. Just to encourage competition for 2025, the combined 2023 and 2024 scores favor the Titans (2,656 to 2,317). Best two out of three?’

Coach Roger concludes, “Lord willing, we do plan to be in Auburn next year in full force!”

Anyone interested in more information about the Madison Titans can contact Coach Roger von Jouanne at 256-6523657 or ‘rvj7777@gmail.com’, or Team Registrar Dave Berry at ‘daveberry000@gmail.com’.

ALHelp.org answers searches for assistance in Madison County

By GREGG PARKER

gregg@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON COUNTY – The

ALHelp.org website serves as an immediate go-to hub, offering a comprehensive directory of local services and essential resources tailored specifically to the needs of Madison County, Madison and Huntsville.

ALHelp.org is a community-facing interface of the Charity Tracker database that many local nonprofits, churches and other helping groups use, Cathy Larsen said. Larsen is Charity Tracker Network Administrator. The ELM Foundation and Hope Works Huntsville sponsor this service. (elmhsv.org/alhelp)

ALHelp.org has several key features:

* Real-time updates -- Because each entity listed can access the database and update their page in real time, residents can stay informed with live updates about available resources and support services, ensuring they have access to the latest information when they need it most, Larsen said.

* Comprehensive directory – Users can easily navigate the extensive database of community sites, including shelters, food banks, medical facilities, counseling services and more.

* Crisis alerts – During emergencies, residents can find instant alerts and notifications with critical information and guidance.

* User-friendly interface -The website’s intuitive interface simplifies searches and quickly finds relevant, specific results. Information is available in both English and Spanish.

The website provides links to 23 categories:

* Senior citizens – Categories include “Aging/Homebound Assistance,” “Food,” “Household,” “Medical,” “Transportation” and “Utilities.”

* Healthcare – “Counseling”; “Medical”; “Other”; “PPE

Grant,” or Personal Protective Equipment loan to buy medical equipment for healthcare professionals and residents (loans gained importance during COVID-19 pandemic); and “Substance Abuse/Mental Health.”

* Emergencies – “Disaster Recovery” and “Food.”

* Students – “Education,” “Financial Assistance,” “Mentoring” and “School Supplies.”

* Personal crises – “Clothing/Shoes,” “Employment,” “Food,” “Holiday Assistance,” “Household,” “Housing/Lodging/Rent,” “Lodge Transient Assistance,” “Other,” “Personal Items,” “Support Group” and “Transitional House.”

In the “Disaster Recovery” category, a resource example is Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, 1418 Old Railroad Bed Road in Madison. The church has a Red Cross emergency storm shelter that congregation members open for the public during severe weather warnings for Madison or Limestone county. (256-232-3331, gslife.org)

In the “Education” category, Asbury Church, 980 Hughes Road in Madison, offers free

classes for English as a Second Language. Students can improve fluency in English and become familiar with American culture. (256-837-0365, weareasbury.com)

An example agency for “Employment” is Still Serving Veterans. The non-profit organization assists veterans with building resumes, interviewing and employment guidance. Office address is 626 Clinton Ave. W., second floor. (256-883-7035, ssv.org)

In the “Counseling” category, AGAPE of North Alabama uses Trust-Based Relational Intervention or TBRI. Caregivers work with children who have experienced complex developmental trauma. Office address is 103 Mountain Brook Blvd. in Madison. (256-859-4481, agapecares.org)

Translation is available into 16 languages by using the “Select a Language” box at the bottom of ALHelp.org’s webpage.

ELM’s address is 7501 Memorial Parkway SW, Suite 115 in Huntsville. For more information about the ELM Foundation, call 256-217-7141 or email info@ elmhsv.org.