By BOB LABBE bob@themadisonrecord.com
MADISON - When you’re good the accolades many times are never ending. Such is the case for Braden Booth who just completed his senior season of baseball at Bob Jones as the post-season awards keep rolling in. Booth led Bob Jones to its first ever State Championship with State Tournament MVP honors. Now, he’s been named Class 7A All-
Ted Satcher is a pilot and flight instructor, but most importantly he is a loving father who passed down his love of flying to his sons
By MARIA RAKOCZY maria@themadisonrecord.comMADISON - Ted Satcher has long had a love of flying. He pins the start of his fascination down to high school football practice in Texas when he would watch F-4s fly over from a nearby Air Force Reserve base. Though he has long had a passion for flying, he did not fly for the first time until college, and a flight in the back of an F-15 while at the Air Force Academy left him airsick and subsequently discouraged. A quick trick from an instructor (chewing gum) re-instilled his confidence and he went on to serve in the Air Force. His love of
cents in the last week and stands at $3.75 per gallon.
According to GasBuddy, the cheapest station in the area last week was priced at $2.85/g on Sunday while the most expensive was $3.59/g, a difference of 74.0 cents per gallon. The national average price of gasoline has fallen 10.0 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.40/g on Monday. The national average is down 23.0 cents per gallon from a month ago and stands 18.2 cents per gallon lower than a year ago.
“We’ve seen one of the larger weekly drops in the national aver-
See GAS PRICES Page 3A
State Player and Pitcher of the Year and Alabama’s Gatorade Player of the Year. If that’s enough, he’s also been selected Alabama Sports Writers Association (ASWA)
Booth Continued from page 1A
signee right-handed pitcher and shortstop led the Patriots to a 44-9 record. He compiled a 13-1 record with a 1.51 ERA and 127 strikeouts in 83 innings on the mound. He averaged 10.7 strikeouts per game. On offense, he batted .429 with 10 homers, 49 RBIs and scored 57 runs.
“Bob Jones has had countless candidates for the award and that has motivated me to be the best I can be,” said Booth, the first Mr. Baseball chosen from Madison. “This feels good and it’s more than just me winning the awards. It’s the program. This is an amazing award for me and Bob Jones.”
homers. His fielding percentage was a near perfect 0.986.
please call 256-340-2410.
CORRECTIONS
The Madison Record will be happy to correct any errors which appear in the newspaper or clarify any statements which are unclear. To request a correction or clarification, call 256-7631150 between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday - Friday, or email news@ themadisonrecord.com.
Bob Jones catcher Zack Johnson was named Class 7A Hitter of the Year and to the Super All-State Team. The junior Alabama commit hit .384 with 56 hits, 65 RBIs, 11 doubles, three triples and five
Madison schools swept the top Class 7A honors as Coach of the Year went to James Clemens head coach Johnny Johnson. The Jets finished second to Bob Jones in Area 8, but pushed the eventual State Champions to three games in the Class 7A semi-finals. The Jets completed their season 33-12. Johnson completed his sixth season as head Jet. The list of local players making the ASWA Class 7A All-State include: First-Team- P, Braden Booth, Bob Jones, 6-1,190, Sr., C, Zack Johnson, Bob Jones, 6-0, 185, Sr., OF, Carson Loosier, James Clemens, 5-4, 130, Sr.; Second-Team- IF, Jacob Pearl, Bob Jones, 5-6, 160, Sr.; Honorable MentionIF, Gresham Baker, Bob Jones, 6-0, 170, Sr.
MADISON - Madison Mayor Paul
Finley talked “inside baseball” in his city of Madison update with the Huntsville-Madison County Chamber of Commerce last week.
He touted Madison’s handling of growth, community feel, and list of new projects.
Growth is on the minds of many Madison residents and city leaders as the city has grown by a family of four every day since 2010. The question is: How is the city handling this growth?
Finley cited the recent news of Madison City School’s eighth elementary school as evidence of the city’s efforts to accommodate growth, especially in the Limestone County side.
“It will truly make a difference in managing the growth within our city, and we’re really thrilled to work with that school board to make those things happen. We’ll continue to do that to use the revenues that both the city and the schools have, live within the means that
we have and continue to keep education as strong as we possibly can,” said Finley.
ALDOT’s expansion of I-565 from Wall Triana to County Line Road to six lanes, along with the city’s new interchange at Town Madison, are expected to accommodate the increase in traffic that growth has created on the interstate.
Finley called the new $37 million interchange, “the true catalyst in bringing Town Madison to its full potential…It’s going to open up that entire 500+ acres into a true live, work, play in Town Madison, but as importantly, it’s going to make a difference for getting into Gate 7 of Redstone arsenal.”
He said it is expected to be complete by January of 2025.
Despite the growth, Finley says one of his goals is to retain the community feel of Madison.
In 2008, he ran on the truth that Madison is a suburb of Huntsville, a truth that led him to the determination to keep a small town community feel to the city.
“In 2008, when we ran, we told the truth. Madison is a suburb, and we want to work with the community to regain a
community atmosphere,” said Finley. He attributes many past projects such as I-565 and County Line Road, the bridge over Old Madison Pike, Indian Creek Greenway, and Zeirdt Road to the community coming together to make their needs
By GREGG PARKER
MADISON – Two veteran groups have scheduled a respectful ceremony that will give added meaning to Flag Day on June 14. Madison American Legion, Post 229 and Veterans of Foreign Wars or VFW, Post 5162 welcome the public to participate in a flag retirement ceremony at 5 p.m. The event will be held in downtown Madison on Front Street at Captain Jesse Ollie Wikle Jr. Veterans Memorial Park.
Following a formal ceremony, residents will join the two veteran organizations in retiring hundreds of U.S. flags.
“Prior to the event, community members are
encouraged to take unserviceable flags to any of Madison’s four fire stations, where designated flag drop boxes are located,” Post 229 Commander Larry Vannoy said. “Or if you want to retire your own flag, it can be brought to the ceremony on the 14th.”
Aunyae Johnson, a Madison Girl Scout, made the four drop boxes and created a formal flag retirement ceremony as part of her Girl Scout Gold Award project a few years ago. “Since then, we have collected thousands of flags and retired them,” Vannoy said.
“Many people believe that a flag should be burned if it touches the ground. This is not true,”
See FLAG DAY Page 8A
Continued from page 1A
age price of gasoline in some time, and what incredible timing that it comes at the beginning of the summer driving season,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. “Not only have gasoline prices plummeted in nearly every state in the last week, but nearly every state has also seen prices drop compared to a month ago. With the declines, Americans will spend roughly $425 million less per week on gasoline than a year ago.”
“In addition, the price of diesel has fallen alongside gasoline to its lowest level since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in early 2022,” De Haanadded. “This price decline party is ramping up, and I expect additional declines ahead of July 4 for both gasoline and diesel prices. Six
states now have average prices below $3 per gallon, and more will join soon, with the number of U.S. stations at $2.99 or lower already nearing 25,000. It’s a great start to summer for those hitting the road.”
Historical gasoline prices in the Huntsville area and national average the past ten years:
June 10, 2023: $3.10/g (U.S. Average: $3.58/g)
June 10, 2022: $4.59/g (U.S. Average: $5.01/g)
June 10, 2021: $2.78/g (U.S. Average: $3.08/g)
June 10, 2020: $1.76/g (U.S. Average: $2.08/g)
June 10, 2019: $2.36/g (U.S. Average: $2.73/g)
June 10, 2018: $2.61/g (U.S. Average: $2.91/g)
June 10, 2017: $2.08/g (U.S. Average: $2.33/g)
June 10, 2016: $2.16/g (U.S. Average: $2.38/g)
June 10, 2015: $2.52/g (U.S. Average: $2.75/g)
June 10, 2014: $3.47/g (U.S. Average: $3.65/g)
MADISON – Before working at Mill Creek Elementary School, Rolanda ‘Ro’ U. Deberry was already quite familiar with the campus and its population because of volunteering. The school’s faculty and staff recently voted for Ro Deberry as “Staff Member of the Year.”
Before her employment with Madison City Schools, Deberry served as chairperson for the book fair and carnival games, Treasurer of Heritage Elementary School PTA, Vice President of Liberty Middle School PTA and Treasurer of Liberty Band.
Deberry previously worked as Ward Clerk for Trevecca Stroke and Or-
thopedic Center; cashier and hostess, Opryland USA Theme Park; and as bookkeeper for both United Furniture Workers of America - AFL-CIO and James Carpets of Huntsville Inc.
Her first job with MCS was Clerical Aide at Heritage from 2005 to 2009. Since that time, Deberry has been working as bookkeeper at Mill Creek.
“After working as the Mill Creek Bookkeeper for 15 years, I am able to anticipate administration and teacher needs and prepare better in advance,” Deberry said.
In her work philosophy, she said, “I am a strict rule follower and a people pleaser. I like everyone to be happy. So . . . let’s talk
See DEBERRY Page 8A
A rare Boba Fett action figure has been sold for $525,000, becoming the world’s most valuable Star Wars action figure. The hand-painted, missile-firing model is one of only two still in existence. They were produced in 1979 but never released due to being deemed a choking hazard.
MADISON – Connie Guo, Urvi Mysore and Sahishnu Saha from James Clemens High School compiled a remarkable list of honors at both the North Alabama Regional Science & Engineering Fair or NARSEF and the state-level Alabama Science & Engineering Fair or ASEF. Guo and Saha were selected as finalists and were invited to the Regeneron International Science and
The Randolph School admits students of any race, color, national, or ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national, or ethnic origin in administration of its educational or admissions policies, scholarship, financial aid, athletics, and other School administered programs.
Engineering Fair or ISEF in Los Angeles, Calif. at the Los Angeles Convention Center on May 11-17.
At ISEF 2024, the world’s largest pre-college STEM competition, students competed for approximately $6 million in awards.
“It’s truly an honor for a student to be chosen to compete or participate at ISEF,” Dr. Virginia Vilardi said. With the Alabama Academy of Science in Wetumpka, Vilardi is State Coordinator for ISEF. “Only 1,800 students from throughout the world get to do so each year, out of the more than 1 million that compete in the 500 affiliated fairs.”
Science Fair sponsor at James Clemens is Kathryn Weir, a National Board Certified Teacher who teaches biomedical science/forensics. Guo is a senior; Mysore and Saha are juniors.
For the first time, James Clemens students were
nominated to the international fair from the North Alabama fair. “Typically, only two students are nominated to ISEF from NARSEF, but this time it was three students, and two were from James Clemens,” Saha said. Along with Guo and Saha, Gabe Gordon from Life Christian Academy was invited.
The James Clemens students amassed numerous honors:
* Connie Guo -- Special Awards at NARSEF: U.S. Army Special Awards, Senior Certificate; Docent’s Award for Excellence, $1,000, Best Project; Robotic Systems & Communication Technology, second place.
* Urvi Mysore -- Special Awards at NARSEF: The Aerospace Corporation Robert H. Herndon Award; Computational and Bioinformatics Sciences, third place.
* Sahishnu Saha -- Special Awards at NARSEF:
U.S. Army Special Awards, Overall Winner; U.S. Space & Rocket Center Docent’s Award for Excellence; Biomedical Engineering & Biomedical and Health Sciences, first place. In state-level competition, Auburn University hosted ASEF on April 13. Sahishnu Saha and Urvi Mysore won awards in their respective categories. Saha ranked in second place for the state contest in Category 800: Biomedical Engineering & Biomedical and Health Sciences. Mysore took third place in Category 1200: Computational and Bioinformatics Sciences. Now in its 70th year, NARSEF provides a platform for students in grades 5-12 to showcase their independent research and compete scholastically with their peers. This state fair is affiliated with the International Science and Engineering Fair or ISEF.
By GREGG PARKER gregg@themadisonrecord.comMADISON – Matthew Stundtner waited patiently for his dream job. His co-workers at Midtown Elementary School selected him as 2024 “Staff Member of the Year.”
“This is my 13th year at Madison City Schools. We have the greatest teachers and staff in the country,” Stundtner said. “I’ve worked with so many wonderful people over the years . . . many I consider family.”
He formerly lived in Florida and worked in construction. After high school, he moved to New Smyrna Beach and learned carpentry as a trade.
Stundtner worked for builders who constructed custom homes. “We had a hand in every aspect -- from foundation to finish trim work. I learned a little bit of everything,” he said.
In Madison, he first worked as custodian at Heritage Elementary School. “I wanted a plant manager position for many years and finally found an open position and got my chance,” Stundtner said about his first year as Midtown’s Plant Manager.
Stundtner’s decision was correct, considering his win as Midtown’s top staffer in his first year. “It has been a challenge but a welcomed one…learning new lighting and HVAC systems. Everything is monitored and controlled by a computer program for maximum energy efficiency,” he said.
“I’m still learning and working out some kinks, but I have a pretty good grasp on how everything works now,” he said. “I love it here at Midtown . . . the administration, teachers and staff are all great. I’d like to thank our Principal, Mrs. Demeester, for hiring me and giving me a chance to show what I can do.”
His work ethic calls him “to stick to the
rules. I like to do stuff right. I’m a bit of a perfectionist so, if it’s not right or I don’t like something, I will do it over,” Stundtner said.
Stundtner enjoys working with wood and builds entertainment centers and bookshelves. “I also do handyman type work as a second job – painting, building decks, tile and wood flooring and other work,” he said.
His wife Kristina Stundtner also works at MCS, as a music teacher in her 17th year. Their twin daughters, Sterling and Olivia, are 20 years old. At Jacksonville State University, Sterling performs in Color Guard with the Marching Southerners. At Calhoun Community College, Olivia is majoring in business and wants to open her own business in dog training, boarding and grooming.
While living in Florida, Matthew surfed several days weekly. “I surfed mostly
Matthew Stundtner proves skills as Midtown’s ‘Staff Member of the Year’ See STUNDTNER Page 8A
MADISON – “Finally, a Race for the Rest of Us.”
Rotary Club of Madison’s tagline for the “Parrots 0.5K and Block Party” event hints at the atmosphere for the low-key, laid-back afternoon that will please even ‘couch potatoes.’
The event’s name pays homage to the club’s legacy fundraiser, “Parrots of the Caribbean.”
Parrots 0.5K’s event venue will be Town Madison, centered around St. Louis Street, on June 15 from 3 to 6 p.m. The ‘race’ is actually a fun run, jog or walk.
After registering, participants will receive a race bib with a number, just like a real 5K but this event’s length is only 0.5K, or about 600 yards. Rotarians encourage participants to embrace the laid-back island lifestyle (like Parrots of the
Caribbean) and enjoy the journey with friends, pets and family.
Children and dogs can enter for free. Event admission is free, but individuals must register for the 0.5K to participate. Registered participants will be eligible for door prizes, awarded at the event. Guests can park free at the stadium.
The event will be held, rain or shine.
All registered ‘runners’ will receive run ‘flair’:
* Oval, Euro-style 0.5K sticker -- For a car’s rear window to show a true athlete is behind the wheel, Rotarians said.
* Race T-shirt -- To guarantee appropriate shirt size, register by May 26.
* Participation ‘medal’ -- “Everyone gets recognized for their achievement at this event.” (madisonalrotary.org/parrots-0-5-k)
* Race bib -- Serves as entry pass to door prizes.
To register, visit madisonalrotary.org/parrots-0-5-k, and click the “0.5K SIGN UP” link. Entry fee in advance is $35; the fee will be $50 on race day.
All registered Parrots 0.5K participants with bib numbers are eligible to win the impressive grand prize, donated by Landers McLarty Subaru. Three people will compete for the Grand Prize in the “Hockey Stick Putt-Off.”
The winner can choose from three options, based on eligibility:
* Option 1 -- A 2024 Subaru Ascent leased from Landers McLarty free for 36 months. To qualify, the winner must be 19 years of age minimum and qualify for a lease from the dealership.
* Option 2 -- $6,000 off MSRP on any new car purchase from Landers McLarty Subaru (with approved credit; dealer will provide details).
By BRUCE WALKER Columnist
MADISON – The Rainbolt Mountain Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution or DAR has announced award winners with their American History Committee.
The chapter-level American History Essay Contest Award winner and the third-place, state-level American History Essay Award winner is Kyla Chandrakasem. Kyla is an eighth-grader at Journey Middle School and a member of Girl Scout Troop 21210. Kyla is an advanced student participating in both Honors English and Math classes.
The DAR American History Essay Contest is for all students in grades 5-8, including those in public, private, parochial and homeschool programs. The prompt for this year’s contest asked students to put themselves in the point of view of a newspaper reporter listening to John Philip Sousa’s march, “The Stars and Stripes Forever” for the first time in 1897. The prompt for this contest changes each year.
The Excellence in American History Award winner is Finley Koswoski. Finley is a senior at James Clemens High School. She is a member
of Girl Scout Troop 926. Finley was recommended for this award by local historian John Rankin.
Finley earned her Gold Award by working with Rankin and the Madison Station Historical Preservation Society on a project to document historic sites in Madison City for a mobile app called Pocket Sights.
This app allows visitors to Madison’s historic area to take self-guided tours. Finley’s project has been featured in “The Madison Record” newspaper, “Madison Living Magazine,” the City of Madison website, WHNT News 19, WAAY 31 News and WAFF 48 News.
The DAR Excellence in American History Award is given to students who demonstrate an interest in American history that goes beyond their classroom curriculum. This award is non-competitive.
More than one student may receive this award in one program year.
To learn more about the Daughters of the American Revolution or DAR, visit dar.org.
To learn more about the full range of student programs and the Rainbolt Mountain Chapter of DAR in Madison, visit rainbolt-mountain-dar.org.
To learn more about Girl Scouts, visit girlscouts. org.
I met this man at Waffle House, we were both waiting for a seat (booth or stool didn’t matter). “I’m Pret, short for Preston,” he said, firmly shaking my hand and looking me in the eye. I could tell he was very assured of himself, mainly because he wore a name tag saying “I’m Pret, ask me about life insurance.”
Immediately, I started coughing and wheezing and asked him if he had a cigarette (even though I have never smoked),
thought this would deter him from his sales pitch. He told me, “I learned I had a knack for selling when I was in the Army in the ’90s. My first assignment was at the military induction center. Because I was a good handshaker and talker, they assigned me to advise recruits about government benefits, espe-
cially GI life insurance, to which they were entitled.
“The officer in charge soon noticed that I was outstripping everybody else in getting them to sign up for the more expensive supplemental GI insurance. My commanding officer said this was remarkable because it cost
See STORYTELLER Page 8A
MHA to meet June 18, discuss history of the Redstone Arsenal
The public is invited to join the Madison History Association for its June meeting with Claus Martel, a Redstone Arsenal Historian. Mr. Martel was invited back to tell more of his fascinating stories.
The meeting will be held at the Madison Public Library, Room 1, on Tuesday, June 18 from 6 to 7 p.m.
All MHA meetings are free and open to the public. Microphone is provided for each speaker.
By STAFF REPORTS staff@themadisonrecord.com
MADISON - Every year, the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and community plans
a number of events for a week-long Armed Forces Celebration to honor our military. The celebration started
Monday and continues through the rest of this week, including a community softball game today at Toyota Field. Here are the events for the upcoming Armed Forces Celebration Week. For more information, go to www.hsvchamber.org/armed-forces-celebration-week-2024.
Wednesday, June 12
Annual Softball Game between Team Redstone and Community Team Toyota Field, 6–7:30 p.m.
(see information above)
Thursday, June 13
Rocket to the Tropics
Saturn V Hall at U.S. Space & Rocket Center’s Davidson Center, 5–7 p.m.
Proceeds support AUSA Rocket to the Tropics at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center is an evening of live music, food, and activities.
Friday, June 14
Armed Forces Prayer Breakfast
The Summit on Redstone Arsenal
7:30 to 8:30 a.m.
This breakfast is free to all military/veterans and their families.
U.S. Army Birthday Celebration Dinner Presented by AUSA Von Braun Center East Hall at 5 p.m.
Saturday, June 15
249th U.S. Army Birthday Celebration Redstone Gateway (Gate 9), 4-9 p.m.
The celebration includes a cake cutting ceremony, cruise-in car show, kids play zone, craft/market vendors, restaurants and food trucks, and entertainment.
Wednesday, June 19
AUSA Iron Mike Golf Tournament
The Links at Redstone, 4140 Goss Road SW, Huntsville Registration: 7 a.m.
Shotgun Start: 8:30 a.m.
Includes breakfast, lunch, beverages, and awards
Military Discounts
The following attractions are offering discounted or free admission for military families during Armed Forces Celebration Week:
• U.S. Space & Rocket Center – free admission for Veterans and active
“VAN GOGH: THE IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE” - When you step into Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience, you’re not stepping into an ordinary art gallery. You’re stepping into a full experience that, more than just hanging paintings on a wall, surrounds you in the moving and skillful pieces of Vincent Van Gogh. Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience opened recently at 6123 University Drive Unit 100 in Huntsville. You can get tickets and information concerning what days and hours it is open at www.vangoghexpo.com/huntsville. The exhibit uses high-tech projection technology to display and animate more than 400 Of Van Gogh’s works including both sketches and completed pieces. It has traveled the country and is now arriving in Huntsville.
BIG BLUE BASH - Celebrate 55 years of UAH at this community-wide, free, family-friendly fun event on June 15, 3:30 - 5:30 p.m. It will be held at the Conference Training Center (CTC), 1410 Ben Graves Drive Northwest in Huntsville. Grab your UAH swag or favorite blue threads and head over to the Conference Training Center (CTC) for entertainment, nostalgia, friendly competition, and all-around, family-friendly fun. Ventriloquist comedian Gene Cordova will headline the event with his fast-paced show.
Inthelittle momentsand majormilestones of childhood,we are here forourpatientsandtheirfamilies –helping,healing teachinganddiscovering.
these low-income recruits an extra $40.00 per month for the higher coverage, compared to what the government was already providing at no charge. My officer sat in on one of my sales presentations about insurance.”
“Well,” Pret continued, (I was about ready to duck out and go to another fine dining establishment called Krystals). “I stood up and began if you have the normal GI insurance and you go to Afghanistan
and get yourself killed, the government only pays your beneficiary $20,000. If you take out the upgrade insurance which only costs you $40.00 per month, the government must pay your beneficiary $500,000!! Now, which bunch do you think they are gonna send to Afghanistan first?” Then he looked at me and said, “Let’s talk about some insurance for you.” That Waffle House breakfast was more than I bargained for.
Jean Downs said. Downs is Auxiliary Unit 229 President and Post 229 Vice Commander. Downs quoted the Flag Code: “The flag should never touch anything beneath it, such as the ground, floor, water or merchandise.”
Everyone should treat a flat respectfully, “but the Flag Code does not state that the flag must be burned,” Downs said. “As a matter of fact, if a flag does touch the ground and gets soiled, it’s perfectly acceptable to wash it in a washing machine.”
Flag Day’s history goes back to the Revolutionary War, when colonists were not fighting under a united, single flag. In
June 1775, the Continental Congress met to create the Continental Army, a unified fighting force, and created the first ‘American’ flag, the Continental Colors. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson officially established June 14 as Flag Day.
American Legion passed a resolution about flag retirement ceremonies in 1937. The U.S. flag is considered such a sacred symbol that burning it in an undignified manner constitutes desecration. Therefore, ceremonies are held in a specific manner.
For more information, email commander@americanlegionpost229.org.
Stundtner Continued from page 4A
at Ponce Inlet,” he said.
“New Smyrna Beach is known as ‘Shark Bite Capital of the World,’ although most bites are accidental from small sharks chasing bait fish.”
Of course, the waters have big sharks, too. “I’ve seen huge bull sharks and hammerheads while surfing. They rarely attack though; they don’t like the taste of humans,” Matthew said. He also has seen manatees, sea turtles and dolphins.
“Surfing with the dolphins might be my favorite thing in the world. They get really close, jump out of the water and sometimes will ride a wave with you,” Matthew said. Matthew plays guitar. With Kristina’s musical background, they like to perform music together, along with attending concerts. The Stundtners love the outdoors…being on the water, kayaking, relaxing on the shore. An avid fisherman, Matthew usually fishes for bass in Alabama. However, he goes saltwater fishing, maybe twice yearly. “If I’m lucky,” he said.
recreation center in Town Madison, Sunshine Oaks Park on Mose Chapel Road, and Community Center on Browns Ferry Road.
The Public Safety Annex will upgrade facilities for several city public safety departments at once. It will include Fire Station 4, projected to be finished in 2026, that Finley says can service the south side of Madison, even as far as the Edgewater subdivision. It will also include fire department training facilities and IT and police office space, which are expected to be in use by the end of this year. He hinted at a revamping of city hall once extra space is created for these departments.
Flag Day Continued from page 3A Finley Continued from page 3A
“Lastly, that allows city hall to be revamped to stretch our departments out here. This is a critical piece for public safety but also efficiency in the city of Madison,” said Finley.
The recreation facility in a former Hexagon building is another new project in the Town Madison area.
The facility has pickleball courts, a full-size gym, and two outdoor fields and can accommodate the city’s growing adult recreation programs.
On Mose Chapel Road, Sunshine Oaks park is currently under development. The space once housed a private equestrian center and now will be transformed into a public park with 40 acres of green space, a playground, three pavilions, restrooms, a disc golf course, parking, and access to the Bradford Creek Greenway.
In the former Three Springs facility on Browns Ferry Road, the city is building the almost 30,000 square foot Community Center that will house the Madison Senior Center as well as dedicated spaces for art, ceramics, and special needs programs, a woodworking shop, a community garden, meeting space for non-profits, and more.
Finley also commented on the state of the Trash Pandas and Toyota Field, touting them as assets
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* Option 3 – A check for $6,000.
In addition, the “Couch Potato 0.5K Race” is a quirky and crazy activity. Teams will race their ‘mobile’ couches for cash prizes. They will compete for speed or style as teams transform the mundane into the magnificent, all in the name of charity. Dust off your favorite old couch, deck it out in your wildest decorations, and race in comfort, according to Rotarians.
Rotary members encourage (but
don’t require) costumes and team themes.
The “Best Team Theme” Trophy will recognize the most creative couch with an impressive design and over-the-top decorations. Cash prizes for the Couch Potato Race will be $1,000 for first place; $300, second place; and $200, third place.
To sign up for the Couch Potato Race, email madisonrotary+CPRace@gmail.com. The race organizer will contact teams for
Continued from page 4A
it out and determine a way to make it work better for everyone.”
Her hometown is Nashville, Tenn., where he attended Bellevue High School. She earned a bachelor’s degree with concentration in accounting at Western Kentucky University.
Ro is married to Mark Deberry, who works as an Engineering Manager with Northrop Grumman. Ro
and Mark’s sons are Bobby, Matthew and Andrew, who graduated from Bob Jones High School in 2006, 2009 and 2011, respectively.
Their sons attended schools in Madison for grades K-12: Madison Elementary School, West Madison Elementary School, Heritage, Liberty and Bob Jones.
“I like to watch cooking shows and then try to create a ‘masterpiece’ of
Continued from page 7A
duty personnel with one paid admission.
• EarlyWorks Museums – free admission for military and/or their families.
• Heart of the Valley YMCA – free admission is given to all active/retired military, with Military ID, and their immediate family members at all branches of the Y: Downtown
not just for Madison but for the entire region. According to statistics shared by the mayor, last year’s total revenues earned from lodging taxes and the Trash Pandas’ five revenue streams amounted to $3.6 million, about $500,000 more than the city’s $3.1 million bond payment.
“One thing I hear is ‘That stadium is losing all kinds of money’,” said Finley. “$3.6 million from just the funding structures we have, about a five hundred thousand plus [surplus], and there’s three more hotels in Town Madison being built. I think it’s a great investment and we’re so proud to have worked with city council, and its truly making a big difference for our overall Tennessee Valley.”
Finley did not comment on the new clubhouse that needs to be built at the stadium before the 2025 season but is currently on track to be completed in 2026 and could be a multi-million dollar cost to the city.
registration. Only nine teams can enter the couch race.
The entire area for Parrots 0.5K and Block Party is within Town Madison’s Entertainment District. Beverage vendors can provide a togo cup to enjoy in the venue.
The event’s premier sponsor is Landers McLarty Subaru.
For more information, email madisonrotary@gmail.com, or visit “Rotary Club of Madison AL” on Facebook or Instagram.
my own,” Ro said. “My family often asks, ‘Did you follow a recipe?’ In other words, they begin to eat with skepticism.”
Away from work, Ro Deberry likes spending time with her family. Playing board games and finishing her latest arts and crafts project both translate to fun times. Deberry also likes traveling to new and favorite destinations.
MADISON - Kurt Yancey is back home at Bob Jones High School after an 11-year departure, although close by for the last six years. Rather than his earlier work at Bob Jones as a history teacher and assistant varsity football coach from July 2004-June 2013, Yancey returns as the new Athletic Director of one of the largest schools in Alabama.
Yancey, 45, takes over the position upon Clay McCall’s retirement.
“I was a Patriot for nine
years and both of my children are going to Bob Jones as the future of this school is important to me and Madison City is important to me,” said Yancey upon being named to his new position.
With two bachelor’s degrees in history and health and in physical education and a master’s degree in Instructional Leadership, all from Jacksonville State University, Yancey was assistant principal and athletic director at Bob Jones feeder school Discovery Middle since 2018. Two years prior, he was assistant principal for nearby Athens High School.
His professional stops included Lee and Huntsville Highs in Huntsville and at Homewood.
“I know having experience as an athletic director is a big plus in my receiving this opportunity at Bob Jones as I know the people and I know the expectations,” said Yancey. “Most people don’t realize how much time it takes in sports and my plan is to partner myself with the community, coaches and school administration to be successful. My vision is to be the best in all sports here at Bob Jones.” Yancey has been married to
MADISON - The 2024 AllState softball teams have been named and six players representing two of the four local schools are part of the elite group of student-athletes selected by the Alabama Sports Writers Association.
Both Bob Jones and Madison Academy each had three players selected to the list for their outstanding play in the 2024 season. Bob Jones, which finished 29-16-1 for Whitney Deaver in her eighth season as Lady Patriots head coach, is represented by First-Team
selections Charlotte Herron and Natalia Kenyatta and A.J. Vineski on the Second-Team. All three were seniors. The Mustangs of Madison Academy (33-6) under the leadership 10-year head coach Dean Clark were represented by underclassmen with First-Team se-
Toyota Field set for week-long Rocket City Softball Showcase next year
By BOB LABBEMADISON– The playing surface at Toyota Field will sport a new configuration in February 2025 as the Rocket City Softball Showcase will take over the stadium for a week featuring four programs from the Southeastern Conference.
“This is an exciting event that showcases our stadium and our community in a completely new light,” said Madison Mayor Paul Finley. “Our region is known for being on the cutting edge of big things and we believe this week of softball will be one that will continue the momentum of everything here in the Town Madison development.”
The partnership with the City of Madison, Rocket City Trash Pandas, Madison County Commission, Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau, and Huntsville Sports Commission brings the national spotlight to Toyota Field with more than 16 games at the stadium.
“A project like this only happens with everyone pulling together and we can’t wait to see Toyota Field take on a new look for this event in February,” said Garrett Fahrmann, General Manager of the Rocket City Trash Pandas. “Our team is known for providing a fun and festive environment for Trash Pandas games and we will bring that same mindset to a great week of softball here at Toyota Field.”
Starting on February 19, 2025, there will be five straight days of college softball at the home of the Rocket City Trash Pandas –headlined by Women’s College World Series participant Alabama against Jacksonville State.
“Major events like this only come about with everyone believing in the vision of making Toyota Field a softball stadium for a week,” said Joel Lamp, Sports Development Manager for the Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau. “We can’t wait to host this week of softball as we create a new event that highlights the continued growth of softball.”
Following the opening night, which includes a home game for UAH, the weekend will feature four straight days of softball action featuring nine teams, including three from the SEC as Auburn, Ole Miss, and Mississippi State will be joined by Alabama mid-major powers Jacksonville State and University of North Alabama, as well as former Women’s College World Series participant James Madison University, Conference USA power Louisiana Tech, rising Southern Conference program at East Tennessee State University, and regular NCAA Tournament contender Miami (OH).
“We look forward to providing everyone a fantastic experience while they are here as this pro-
See TRASH PANDAS Page 2B
MADISON - After years of working his way through the ranks of recreational baseball leagues at Palmer Park, traveling the roads for thousands of miles among his play in travel baseball and the best four years of his life as a member of the Bob Jones baseball program, Braden Booth has been honored as one of the top players in the United States.
In its 39th year of honoring the nation’s most elite high school athletes, Gatorade announced Braden Booth of Bob Jones High
lection Cat Schreiber, So., Second-Team selection Emily Burgreen, Jr., and Honorable Mention listing Evie Stephenson, seventh. For Bob Jones, Herron was chosen as an infielder. She batted .504 with a slugging percentage of .985. She posted 68 hits, with 59 RBIs scoring 56 runs. Her performance at the plate included 17 doubles, three triples and 14 homeruns. Kenyatta was selected as a designated hitter where she batted .519 with a slugging percentage of 1.008. She had 68 hits with 51 RBIs with 13 doubles, three triples and 15 homers. She also set school records with 28 walks and 70 runs scored. Vineski’s pitching prowess led to her Second-Team selection. She posted a 22-13 record with 173-2/3 innings on the mound where she faced 857 batters with 93
vides a unique opportunity to showcase all the great things Huntsville has to
of those going down by strikeout. She finished with a 3.59 ERA. At the plate, she batted .416 with 52 hits, 46 RBIs, 16 doubles, two triples and four homeruns.
Madison Academy made it to the Class 3A semi-finals of the AHSAA State Tournament falling to Plainview 9-5 thus ending its spectacular 2024 season. Schreiber had a splendid campaign both on the mound and at the plate. Selected as FirstTeam pitcher, she was 31-6 with a 1.20 ERA and tossed four no-hitters. In 204 innings pitched, she posted 282 strikeouts with only 36 walks. At the plate, she batted .422 with 12 doubles and 47 RBIs.
Second-Team choice Burgreen came at the infield position where she batted .471 including 13 doubles, six homers, 47
offer,” said Mark Russell, Executive Director of the Huntsville Sports Commission. “Softball is a growing sport and we look forward to continuing that momentum with this event.”
Presale for Trash Pandas season ticket holders started on June 10, with public sale set for June 13 at 10 a.m., with party decks, suites, and concourse suites available.
“We’re a community that built big things over the years and we are proud
to be part of this big event coming to Toyota Field,” said Madison County Commission Chairman Mac McCutcheon. “I’m proud of our community bringing their talents together to take this event from a vision to reality. We look forward to welcoming all the teams to Madison and Huntsville for what will be a firstclass experience.”
“Anytime we have an opportunity to grow our sport, especially in our great state, it’s an honor
Continued from page 1B
to be included. The softball community is growing every day and we are thankful for everyone involved hosting this great softball event,” said Jacksonville State Head Coach Jana McGinnis.
“We are so excited to play in the first-ever Division I softball tournament at Toyota Field in February. It is filled with great competition and will be a great atmosphere for our players to compete,” stated James Madison Head Coach Loren LaPorte.
could say it’s in my blood,” added Yancey. “I love sports and competition.”
his wife, Renae, for 15 years and they have two children, Paxton and Presley. Yancey grew up in Gadsden and was a four-sport athlete while attending Glencoe High. He attended Jacksonville State with a leadership and football scholarship where he played quarterback for the Gamecocks for two seasons graduating in 2002. While on the beautiful campus of Jacksonville State he earned his way to the Dean’s List four consecutive years.
He has coached golf and football during his 22 years in education.
“My entire family has been involved in the field of education so I guess who
Bob Jones is coming off an incredible school year where both its baseball team and girl’s swim team won State Championships. Yancey wants to continue the success of athletics within his new position. He added, “I need to figure out how to keep chasing those Blue Maps, which signify State Championships. Relationships are everything to me as my leadership style is I will be in the competition with those student-athletes and coaches. I want to create an atmosphere of competitive spirit.”
HUNTSVILLE - Mother Nature
may have dampened the atmosphere, but Mr. Sunshine prevailed in the running of the 44th Bill Penney Toyota Cotton Row Run.
Heavy rains and thunderstorms corralled the area just prior to the start of the annual 10K race in downtown Huntsville but subsided just in time for the 7:00 a.m. scheduled start of the traditional Memorial Day extravaganza and soon clouds gave way to more sunny conditions for the event that included a 10K and 5K races along with a 1-mile fun run conducted by the Huntsville Track Club.
In all, 1,434 finished the 10K race with 274 of those runners who hailed from Madison. In the 5K, 236 runners from Madison were part of the 1,258 who officially completed the shorter of the two scheduled races which first occurred in 1980 with one race canceled due to COVID-19.
The start gun was fired on time and the runners began their trek through parts of downtown Huntsville. Coming to the finish line, the setting was much like last year with David Bett, 31, of Kenya leading Dominic Korir, 31, from Los Angeles. The one-two finish was similar as 2023 with Bett finishing first with a time of 29:29 and Korir at 30:33. In the female division, 25-year old Betty Sigei of Wailuku, Hawaii, who finished runner-up a year ago, took to the front of the pack and finished first with a time of 34:53 some 51 seconds faster than runner-up Emma Hardman, 27, of Huntsville. Bett and Sigei both collected $1,200 for their victories while second place finishers took home $600 each.
Madison runners were well rep-
resented with four of them finishing among the top 25. Leading the Madison contingent was 25-year old Hunter Nails who was fourth overall with a time of 32:34. Finishing behind Nails was Beck Mitchell, 36, in eighth overall at 34:17 and Alex Shah, 23, at No. 13 with a finish time of 36:08. The top Madison female finisher was Sarah Crouch as the 34year old was 23rd overall and third female at 37:31. Hannah Stevens, 18, was the second fastest female from Madison with a time of 42:20.
Madison did very well in the race’s age division winners. Tops in the Male 25-29 age division was Hunter Nails, 25, 32:34. Male 35-39 was won by Beck Mitchell, 36, 34:17. Female 17-19 was won by Hannah Stevens, 18, 42:20. Female 20-24 was won by Claire Deaton, 20, 46:59 and Female 30-34 division was won by Sarah
Crouch, 34, 37:31.
The 5K race was won by Nashville’s Brad Cheek, 27, with a time of 16:46. He edged fellow Nashville runner Kevin Dempsey, 33, by a mere three seconds at 16:49. Top female was Ashley Walker of Birmingham as the 22-year old finished at 19:25. Madison was led by John Litavec, 15, at 19:22 while Luke Risse, 16, was runner-up at 20:25. Females were led by 18-year old Emma Bothern with her time of 22:27 while Hannah Nails, 25, was runner-up at 22:33.
In all, 1,258 finished the 5K with Madison providing 236 participants.
The 2024 Memorial Day event featured runners from age eight to 80.
The official last runner in the 10K came across the finish line at 1:51:06 with the 5K officially ended with a runner at the finish line with a time of 1:07:23.
Booth Continued from page 2B
pionship.
The award, which celebrates the nation’s top high school athletes for excellence on the field, in the classroom and in the community, distinguishes Booth as Alabama’s best high school baseball player. From CEOs and coaches to star athletes, Gatorade Player of the Year winners showcase the power of sport.
The 6-foot-1, 190-pound senior right-handed pitcher and shortstop led the Patriots to a 44-9 record and the Class 7A state championship this past season. Booth compiled a 13-1 record on the mound with a 1.51 ERA and 127 strikeouts in 83.1 innings of work. At the plate, he batted .429 with 10 home runs, 49 RBI and 57 runs scored, compiling a 1.333 OPS. Ranked as the state’s No. 5 prospect in the Class of 2024 by Perfect Game, Booth earned MVP honors in the Class 7A State Championship Series when he batted .700 with three home runs. He tossed a complete-game, two-hitter with seven strikeouts in the series opener.
A member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Booth has volunteered locally on behalf of the Miracle League of North Alabama and as a youth mentor for elementary school students. “Braden Booth is
the ultimate teammate and competitor,” said Jared Smith, head coach at Bob Jones after his ninth season.
“He’s one of the hardest workers that I have ever had the privilege to coach. He is the best player ever to play at our school and can affect any game on the mound or at the plate.”
Booth has maintained a 3.68 weighted GPA in the classroom. He has signed a National Letter of Intent to play baseball on scholarship at Mississippi State University this fall.
For Booth, a varsity player since he was a freshman and highly touted player across the country, his numbers on the season were enormous going 13-1 on the mound with a 1.51 ERA while batting .429 with 10 homers and 49 RBIs. Known as being extremely humble of his talents, Booth said his success and the team’s success came from a team effort. “It was the other players in the dugout who carried us through our championship season as their continued energy gave those on the field a boost at every pitch,” said Booth.
“We all understood we would never again be on the field at the same time and wanted to finish by capturing a championship ring, something Bob Jones had never accomplished
Betty Sigei raises her arm in celebration of winning the female division of the 44th running of the Cotton Row Run 10K.
before. I struggled through a lower back injury about a quarter of the season and I pushed through that for our 15 seniors, especially those who will not play in college as this was their last season. I wanted to bring back a ring for them.”
The Gatorade Player of the Year program annually recognizes one winner in the District of Columbia and each of the 50 states that sanction high school football, girls volleyball, boys and girls cross country, boys and girls basketball, boys and girls soccer, baseball, softball, and boys and girls track & field, and awards one National Player of the Year in each sport. The selection process is administered by the Gatorade Player of the Year Selection Committee, which leverages experts including coaches, scouts, media and others as sources to help evaluate and determine the state winners in each sport.
As part of Gatorade’s commitment to breaking down barriers in sport, every Player of the Year also receives a grant to donate to a social impact partner. To date, the Gatorade Player of the Year program has provided more than $4.9 million in grants to winners across more than 1,900 organizations.
MADISON - The publication “Valley Leaves” in March of 1974 on page 150 printed a query about the Bailey, Moore, and Tribble families of the 1830s Madison area. The query was submitted by George R. Bailey of Athens, Alabama. It stated that Josiah Bailey had siblings Matthew M., John, Hezekiah, Sarah, William J., and Elijah. Matthew married Sally Allen; John married first Jemima Burns, then Nancy Barham (“Basham” per Madison County Records Center online listing); Hezekiah married Martha Moore first, then Louisa Gooch; Sarah married Louis Landers; William J. married Sarah A. Johnson; and Elijah married Martha Ann Vaughan in Limestone County on December 14, 1833.
The stated marriage date for Elijah indicates that his siblings probably married earlier in the same area, and the approximate ages of this family of siblings, along with their marriages into local area family surnames, may well point to descendancy from a local patriot of the American Revolutionary War, who apparently also had a son named James Bailey. James F. Bailey (1779-1843) was the subject of an article in The Huntsville Times of May 23, 2007, page 7. James was stated by his descendants to be a son of Moses Bailey (17401834) in several earlier publications. The 1834 Last Will & Testament of Moses mentions only his wife Judith and his son William Jackson Bailey, who was almost certainly the same person as the above-listed sibling of Josiah. The will of 1834 was entered into probate in November of 1835, indicating that Moses died within a year of writing his last will and testament. James Bailey also was involved in the Final Settlement of the estate of Moses Bailey, but he was not named as a recipient of any share of the estate -- which may have resulted from James having previously received lands where he lived, along with being a well-established and independent senior brother to Moses’ above-named children.
Josiah Bailey had a son named Henry J. Bailey who lived with his uncle Hezekiah Bailey after Josiah’s death before 1840. The 1830 census shows Hezekiah Bailey living between the households of Elijah (“Elias”) Bailey and a neighboring man named William Jackson, who may not have mentioned to the census-taker that his last name was Bailey, or it may be that he was an unrelated neighbor and highly-regarded namesake of Josiah’s sibling with that given middle name. Hezekiah’s very detailed Last Will and Testament of 1847 named his siblings and was witnessed by James F. Bailey, who was also not included among the specified siblings in the provisions of Hezekiah’s will.
The omission from two LWTs of family members suggests that James was possibly not a son of Moses, or he could have been a senior and relatively wealthy uncle or a cousin of Hezekiah, Josiah, and their siblings. Other records indicate that James apparently was a brother of another Madison County pioneer, David Bailey. David lived in today’s Monrovia area along Johns Road and deeded land (the deed was witnessed by James) in 1816 for the Salem Baptist Church along “Funnell Creek” (today’s Dry Creek fork from Indian Creek). Of course, it is logical that James was in fact a son of Moses and that Hezekiah did not include James in the provisions of his will due to James’ own request as not being needful of any of Hezekiah’s property.
However they were connected, the Bailey families of the area were thoroughly integrated into the community.
For example, Hezekiah’s wife Louisa Gooch was a daughter of Roland and Elizabeth Gooch, early settlers who are buried on the hilltop behind the Project Dance Studio building on the east side of Hughes Road beyond the eastern end of Plaza Boulevard. John Bailey’s wife Nancy “Barham” perhaps was Nancy Parham, of that Madison-area pioneer family. Sarah Bailey’s husband Louis Landers was no doubt of the area’s Landers clan. Also, there are known links to other family surnames of the area, including Word, Crutcher, Pettus, Parham, Dillard, Gray, Abernathy, Moore, and Tribble.
Elijah Bailey’s wife, Martha Ann Vaughan, married Hezekiah Bradley Cartwright after Elijah’s death. Hezekiah B. Cartwright is buried on the south shoulder of Palmer Road very near County Line Road. However, his wife, Martha Ann Vaughn Bailey Cartwright, is buried beside Orrie Cartwright, one of their daughters, in the old section of the Madison City Cemetery along Mill Road. Orrie married John Lipscomb, who was the first public school educator of Madison. Mattie Cartwright (bur-
ied in the same cemetery) was another daughter of Martha. She married Madison merchant Arthur H. Lewis. They had a daughter, Cora Lewis, who married Herman Humphrey. Lewis and Humphrey descendants are numerous in the area.
Mattie Cartwright Lewis had a half-brother, James E. H. Bailey, son of Martha Ann Vaughn Bailey (and later “Cartwright”) by her first husband, Elijah Bailey. James E. H. Bailey was the first owner of Lots 32 and 33 in the original Madison town plat. He was also a co-owner of Lot 16 (21 Front Street today) in partnership with John Cosby, a relative of George Washington Martin.
G. W. Martin was the first lot purchaser and storeowner in the town.
Cosby operated a kiln in Madison before the Civil War to produce bricks from Alabama’s red clay for the construction of Madison’s early stores, including the oldest storefront, owned by Martin and still standing at 110 Main Street. (Cosby’s kiln probably also produced the numerous bricks used to cover many graves in the nearby Gray Cemetery off today’s Balch Road near Gillespie Road.) Cosby’s partner, James E. H. Bailey, was also a blacksmith, doing business with his partner under the name Cosby & Bailey.
The Bailey linkages with the historical families of Madison are just a part of the incredibly interwoven connections of the early citizens of the area where the town later became established. As just one example, the known history of James F. Bailey is included here to illustrate the interactions of the area pioneer families.
On the south side of Mill Road, about a quarter mile east of County Line Road and on the northeast edge of the Cedar Springs Station development, is very likely the oldest house still standing within the Madison city limits. In fact, it may well be the oldest house still standing in the entire North Alabama region. The house is a two-story log cabin that was built by pioneer James F. Bailey for his family residence and also to serve as an inn and watering stop along the stage and mail route between Huntsville and Mooresville in the early 1800s.
James F. Bailey was born in 1779, possibly in Virginia of Indian and White ancestry. He married Sarah T. Johnston in 1803 in Warren County, Georgia. Before 1818 he, along with several siblings and the man believed to be their father, Moses Bailey, (a Revolutionary War soldier) came to the Madison area probably by 1806-1809 while it was still Indian land. The Bailey brothers bought rights to lands west of the Indian Boundary Line as soon as legal purchases were allowed, in February of 1818. William J. Bailey, likely a brother of James F. and David Bailey, also married a Sarah Johnson, who could possibly have been a close relation of James’ wife Sarah T. Johnston, daughter of Samuel Johnston.
David Bailey was the first purchaser of land on the north side of what is now Highway 72 along Indian Creek and Dry Creek at the site of the Providence community development. In 1816 he deeded over 3 acres of the land to the already-existing Salem Baptist Church on land where he lived. The deed wording said that the land was a gift to the church due to “…the love and good will that he has for the church” for a period “…so long as the church shall use it for a place of public worship”. James F. Bailey was one of the witnesses to that deed, which was not recorded until 1829. The deed refers to Dry Creek as “Funnell Creek”, and when it was written, it stated the location as being in “Maddeson County, Mississippi Territory”. In fact, in those days, even what is called Indian Creek today was named on maps as Hurricane Creek or Fork and later as Price’s Fork (or Branch) of Indian Creek. The original “Indian Creek” is today known as the Huntsville Spring Branch of Indian Creek.
James Bailey in 1818 recorded land purchases several times in the area, including one parcel adjacent to David and to his father-in-law, Samuel Johnston. The parcel that contains James’ old cabin and the Bailey family cemetery, was purchased in 1830. The cabin is not visible to the public today, even though it is intact. The reason that it still stands is what hides it from public eyes. It is completely contained and incorporated within the more modern house of local veterinarian Dr. Charles Whitworth. Without that protection, the old logs would have rotted long ago, but for now it is very well preserved and still in use, with its construction plainly visible inside Dr. Whitworth’s house. That old log cabin no doubt hosted a number of VIPs of its day, as the Bailey family was well-connected to prominent families of the early 1800s, includ-
ing their not-too-distant neighbors, the Bibbs of the first two Governors of Alabama. Even Reuben Crutcher, the well-known Primitive Baptist preacher of that time married one of the Bailey daughters and is buried in the family cemetery about 250 yards south of the cabin along Mill Road in the Cedar Springs community. Likewise, it is believed by some that an uninscribed tombstone at the center of the little cemetery is that for Moses Bailey, the Revolutionary War soldier and progenitor of the local Bailey clan. However, some people say that Moses was buried in the Gray Cemetery, and that is possible, but since Hezekiah Bailey purchased land adjacent to the Gray Cemetery in 1838 from David Gray, and Moses died three years earlier in 1835, it is not likely. Moses’ grave location in the center of the Bailey Cemetery makes much more sense, as pio-
neer cemeteries typically had the first burial centered by subsequent burials around their oldest family member from the time when the cemetery was first begun, and it appears that James F. Bailey was very likely to have been the oldest son of Moses -- therefore, he would have handled the burial of his father behind the house where he lived and then interred more related family members as they passed.
Moses’ son Elijah Bailey was father of the James E. H. Bailey that purchased three lots in the embryonic town of Madison Station in 1857 and 1859. This younger James Bailey was a son of Martha Vaughan Bailey, who after Elijah Bailey’s death married Hezekiah Bradley Cartwright, a son of area pioneer John Cartwright. The Baileys were apparently builders of the Madison community in many ways -- structurally and in population.
Each player takes a turn to draw a line from one dot to another. When a player completes a box, such as the one below, he is allowed another turn. If a player’s turn allows him to make several boxes in a row, he can keep playing until he cannot complete another box. Initial each box you create. The person with the most boxes wins. . . . . . . .
Father’s Day, which occurs every year on the third Sunday in June, is a holiday that has been set aside to show the Fathers, Grandfathers, and the other special gentlemen in our lives how much we appreciate all that they have done for us. This year we celebrate Father’s Day on Sunday, June 16. Children make cards and presents for their Dads and treat them extra special that day. The origins of Father’s Day go back to June 19, 1910, in Spokane, Washington. Sonora Dodd was the daughter of Mr. William Smart. Sonora’s Mother died during childbirth, so Mr. Smart was a single Father to six children, as well as a Civil War veteran. Dodd was honored by her Father’s love, hard work, and dedication to raising his family alone, so she campaigned to create the first Father’s Day. The holiday’s popularity caught on, and in 1966 President Lyndon B. Johnson made the third Sunday in June an official holiday. President Nixon made it a permanent part of our Country’s annual festivities in 1977, and it has been observed and celebrated ever since.
Across Clues:
Card, Coach, Counselor, Dad, Daughter, Family, Father, Friend, Gift, Helper, Leader, Mentor, Role Model, Son, Teacher
Using the numbers 1-6, complete the puzzle below. You are to have one of each number (1-6) in each vertical and horizontal row, as well as only
3. Many kids make these for Father’s Day.
5. Most popular gift purchased for Dads.
7. City that observed the first Father’s Day.
8. A male, parental figure.
9. Another person to celebrate.
Down Clues:
1. Who created the idea for Father’s Day?
2. President who made holiday permanent.
3. Mr. Smart was a veteran of which war?
4. How many kids did Mr. Smart have?
6. Who was Senora Dodd’s Father?
By BECKY MILLER
Let’s
to talk to a trusted friend which is perfectly okay but first and foremost before texting and calling you need to cry out to God. Have there been days where you totally have rushed out the door without a good quiet time with the Lord. If you do it is easy to get distracted by
things in your life where Satan wants you to worry and hyper focus. Stop now, take a cleansing breath. Talk to God. Say hello there Lord it’s me again. I need you today. I need you every day. Give me peace in the midst of a storm. See it is easy. Don’t let Satan put lies in your head. You need God daily to survive the battles in your life.
PRAYER: This day and every day I give to you. Thanks for helping me weather the storms in my life. 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.
Satcher
Continued from page 1B love for flying alive by sharing it with others, including his two sons, Jack and Steven, who are both pursuing careers using the skill passed on to them by their dad.
“The boys just kind of grew up flying to see grandpapa, and then when they were old enough, they decided that they wanted to be a pilot as well,” said Ted’s wife, Laura Satcher. “So, two summers ago, he taught our two boys, Steven and Jack to fly, and they got their pilots license.”
Ted introduced Jack and Steven to flying at a young age. They grew up flying back and forth to visit family in Texas on the plane Ted bought for the family in 2006, and though they didn’t always love flying like their father, both are now pursuing careers in aviation.
Their youngest son Jack is currently enrolled at Mississippi State University and participating in their AFROTC program in the hopes of following in his father’s footsteps and joining the Air Force. Steven, the oldest, is currently pursuing a commercial flying license at the University of Memphis and looking to join his younger brother to continue his training at Mississippi State.
They say having a dad with expertise in flying has been extremely helpful in
their training.
“It’s definitely been helpful because I’m used to his teaching style both in and out of the cockpit,” said Jack. “He is here in the house, and I can ask questions too, which has been extremely helpful. It has helped strengthen my relationship with him.”
“I mean while I was flying at Memphis, of course, I had other instructors that I had to fly with in order to get through everything. It was good to see different perspectives on flight instruction, but still, I mean, they were not as good as my dad,” joked Steven.
“He’s pretty much my main inspiration for what I want to do later on in life,” added Jack on his goal of becoming an Air Force pilot. “He’s helped me through that as well, given me some insider tips to help me reach that goal.”
Laura has had a front row seat to the bond her husband and sons have built over their shared love of flying and sees it as a unique activity to bond over. She admires the kind of teacher her husband has been to their sons.
“It’s been interesting to see his relationship with the boys just his patience with them, and he’s just a good man overall. I’m a little biased I’m sure,” Lau-
ra observed. “Most dads don’t get to have that side of instruction or depth of instruction with their boys.”
As for Ted’s perspective, he says sometimes it is difficult to balance being their teacher and their father when they’re in the cockpit.
“It’s challenging for me as an instructor to communicate to them as an instructor not as their dad,” he said.
Knowing that flying is fun but can also be dangerous at times, his paternal instincts often come out when his sons are in the air. When Jack and Steven completed solo cross-country routes as part of their training and certifications, Ted’s paternal instincts came out in full force. He tracked their flight paths and periodically checked in on their statuses. When their signals would drop out, worst case scenarios would come to mind.
“I had no qualms about them flying solo in the local area but when I cut them loose to do their solo cross countries that was some nerve-wracking days because there’s so much unknown out there that they could encounter,” Ted remembered. “I sweated those flights immensely, and I watched them like a hawk on the computer and listened to their radio calls on the computer the whole time.”
When the cross-country treks were finally complete, he felt a great sense of relief and a sense of pride.
“It was just great to get them back and see them land, just pride in their accomplishment and happy that they made it back,” he said.
His sons are not the only ones he passes his flying knowledge on to.
While in New Zealand for a year, Ted treated a group of locals to a scenic flight over the Pacific Island. The experience was especially touching for one elderly
man who got to see the one room schoolhouse he taught at for many years from a bird’s eye view. Here in Huntsville, he is partnered with the Boy Scouts too for a flying event at Huntsville Airport.
Ted is also a chief pilot at the Redstone flying club, where he teaches civilian students the ropes of aviation. He became involved in the flying club after reading an advertisement in The Redstone Rocket. The club was the perfect outlet for Ted’s restlessness after a prolonged hiatus from flying.
“When we came back from New Zealand, we had sold our airplane before we left to go over there, and when we came back, it was probably two months later in December, he felt really restless and he couldn’t figure out why, and the next day he said, ‘You know I haven’t flown since we’ve been back.’ And I was like, ‘That’s what’s wrong with you! That’s why you’re restless because you haven’t flown!’” said Laura.
Ted flew for the first time with the club in August 2005, earned his FAA civilian instructor certification in 2010, and took on his first student in 2013.
His sons, however, may just be his greatest students. He offered them advice as they start their careers in the air:
“A lot of it’s just studying hard. You are not going to learn it all in one night. So, you really have to keep studying. You must keep learning even after you have your license. You must continue to try and make yourself a better pilot all the time, and you have to be realistic about your skills and to be sort of brutal in your own analysis of your performance.”
When asked what motivates him to give his time to passing on his skills and appreciation for flying, his family responded simply, “The love of flying.”
