The Madison Record - July 19, 2023

THE RECORD

New city district map unveiled at public meeting, others planned

By MARIA RAKOCZY news@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – Redistricting now takes center stage for city leaders in Madison after a draft of the new city district maps were unveiled Monday during a public meeting at city hall.

Because the meeting was held after the Monday print deadline for The Madison Record’s July 19 issue, details from the meeting will be posted online first at www.themadisonrecord.com.

Madison Mayor Paul Finley said last week city consultants Slaughter and Associates were contracted to draw up the new district map. He reiterated what the city and Slaughter and Associates hope to accomplish with redistricting, “Again, their goal is to redistribute the growth that we’ve had into seven, equally sized districts,” he said.

Every 10 years jurisdictions with the city’s seven districts evaluate whether a change to their district boundaries (redistricting) is needed based on the most recent U.S. Census popu-

The city of Madison is currently at process #4 in the steps needed to implement a new city map of districts taking into consideration the latest census information.

lation data. Madison grew from 42,938 in 2010 to 56,933in 2020. The 2023 population estimate puts the city around 60,342, making it the 9th largest city in Alabama and the 640th largest city

Dr. Bao apponted to Madison Police Citizen Advisory Committee

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON - Madison City

Council president Ranae Bartlett announced last week the appointment of Dr. Yeqing Bao to Place 5 on the Madison Police Citizen Advisory Committee for a term lasting until April 26, 2025, replacing Dwayne Craft. Bartlett explained, “I want to thank Dwayne Craft, who was originally appointed to that position. He served for a couple of years, and his job requirements required him not to be able to be on the committee because of his attendance at his job. Congratulations to Dr. Bao, and I know he will do a great job!”

The MPCAC functions as the community conduit for citizens and the Madison Police Department. The committee, made up of nine appointed members, is selected by each City Council member for their respective district along with seats appointed by the mayor and the chief of police.

in the United States. Madison is currently growing at a rate of 1.69% annually.

The meeting on Monday will was held in the city coun-

Bartlett said Dr. Bao has lived in Madison’s District 5 for 20 years. She stated Dr. Bao is a Professor of Marketing at the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) and has

See MAP Page 3B See Dr. BAO Page 3B

Nominate a military family for recognition at Celebrate Madison

Signalink has partnered with the Madison Chamber of Commerce and the City of Madison to sponsor the three families.

Signalink owners Steve and

Alice Lessman, who are veterans themselves, said they wanted to show their and the community’s appreciation for the hard work and sacrifices of military families. “We are proud to be the Military Family Sponsor for Celebrate Madison,” they said. “As veterans, Steve and I have committed ourselves to honoring the men and women who serve our country. Being able to offer our support in any

Dr. Yeqing Bao

SOUNDS OF SUMMER - A good crowd gathered Thursday evening for Madison Arts Alliance’s free concert series, “Sounds of Summer.” Held at downtown Madison’s Home Place Park, the concert featured Calypso Vision. On July 27, the Jimmy Henderson Trio will perform. This group plays blues/rock originals and well-known covers. Food trucks will be available at each concert. See page 6A for more details. There are some fun photos from Thursday’s concert on page 5B.

LOCAL NEWS

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Back-to-school sales tax holiday starts Friday

ers must be less than $750; supplies must be under $50; books must be under $30.

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Member of the Alabama

MADISON – Parents getting their kids ready for the new school year will have the opportunity to save on supplies this weekend. The Back to School Sales Tax Holiday will be from 12:01 a.m. on Friday, July 21 through midnight on Sunday, July 23.

Only certain items, such as school supplies, computers and clothing are eligible to be sold without state sales tax. Clothing must be less than $100 per item to be exempt. Computers, tablets and print-

Diapers, robes, gloves and underwear are also eligible.

Some local municipalities are participating and removing local sales tax.

“The sales tax holiday offers parents a way to save on back-to-school needs,” said Alabama Retail Association President Rick Brown. “Saving money for consumers while stimulating sales for stores is what this weekend is all about.” Go to www.revenue.alabama.gov or a full list of the tax-exempt items.

550807-1

Zion Gourmet is one of the many businesses in the historic downtown which have played a big role in the area’s revitalization over the past few years. To keep up with happenings downtown, check out www.facebook.com/shoppesofhistoricdowntownmadison. The downtown business will host

a special event this

Celebrate

Continued from page 1A

way that highlights their selfless contributions is truly our pleasure.”

Mayor Paul Finley acknowledged the great influence military families have had on Madison, “The Madison community is built upon the regional military influence in our area. We thank our Veterans, Active Duty service men and women, and the Gold Star families for their sacrifice. We also thank Signalink for their sponsorship of the Celebrate Madison event, making this recognition possible. It is an honor for these military families, who have lived in many cities across the world, to call Madison home.”

Eligible families may be active duty,

Map Continued from page 1A

cil chambers at Madison City Hall, 100 Hughes Road.

At a public meeting held nearly two years ago, on September 27, 2021, the city’s consultants presented data showing that redistricting is warranted. According to a statement released by the city, Madison follows a five-step process in reviewing and implementing redistricting.

Residents are invited and encouraged to participate in the following public meetings. All of the meetings will be held at city hall.

Public Hearing – Aug. 14

Council adoption – Sept. 11

In other business at Monday’s city council meeting:

Councilwoman Karen Denzine announced the Madison Police Department was recently honored with a re-accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). Madison Police became one of only seven police departments in the state of Alabama to receive the sought-after accreditation in 2019, which requires renewal every few years. Renewal for Madison came up this year and included an assessment by CALEA. The review yielded a “perfect assessment” based on a total of one-hundred eighty-eight factors including public feedback, internal budget management, and 911 response.

“The assessors concluded that the Madison Police Department was in full compliance with a hundred eighty-three of the CALEA standards with no issues, waivers, or other issues,” Denzine read from the report. She extended her congratulations to the police department for their excellent work and deserved recognition.

Dr. Bao

Continued from page 1A

been a faculty member there since 2001.

Throughout his tenure at UAH, he has taken on various administrative roles, including Associate Dean of the College of Business, Associate Dean for Graduate School and International Services, and currently serves as the Chair for the Department of Management and Marketing.

According to a press release from the city, the committee strives to promote dia-

retired, or a Gold Star Family that live within the Madison city limits. The families selected will be recognized on the field and presented with a special plaque in the opening ceremonies of the event.

Nominations can be submitted until Monday, July 31, by filling out a form on the Madison Chamber of Commerce website, www.madisonalchamber.com.

Celebrate Madison is hosted by the Madison Chamber of Commerce with the support of presenting sponsor Meta, the City of Madison, and a committee of local businesses.

Celebrate Madison is free to all Madison residents, and gates open at 6 pm.

Two new city business licenses were introduced at Monday’s meeting: “Liquor Manufacturer” and “Media Streaming Distribution”. According to Deputy Revenue Officer Ivon Williams, the licenses are a response to large growth in the area in these types of businesses. The Media Streaming Distribution license would require persons and businesses receiving revenue from online content creation, specifically through the podcast medium, to apply to the city for and hold a license.

Monday’s introduction of the licenses was a “first reading”. The proposals will be voted on at the next city council meeting on July 24. The meeting starts at 6 p.m. and is held in the council chambers at Madison City Hall.

Other financial items addressed include the following:

• Payment of $103,838.14 to Midsouth Paving, Inc. for work on Hughes Road at Will Halsey Way

• Issue bids for construction of ADA sidewalk ramps in the Homeplace Subdivision

• Change Order No. 2 on contract AECOM Technical services, Inc. for the City of Madison Interchange at a cost of $259,751.80 from the 2022 Flyover Bond Issue

• First Reading for Franchise Agreement with new-to-town Crown Castle Fiber, LLC for small cell placement and installation of fiber lines

• Franchise Agreement with Knology of Huntsville, Inc that would allow usage of city easements and right-of-way for the operation and maintenance of a cable and broadband system within the City of Madison

logue between the police department and the community at large. Monthly meetings cover educational topics on public safety and advocate for positive relationships between local law enforcement and those they serve. They are open to the public.

Places for seats 2, 4, 6 and the mayor’s appointment will expire soon

For more, go to www.madisonal.gov.

19 FRONT STREET

Chad and Shay Lemond treasure their ‘Jewel of Downtown’

By GREGG PARKER gregg@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON - During their first fall in Madison, Chad and Shay Lemond were walking downtown at the Madison Street Festival when the house at 19 Front Street caught their eye.

“Wouldn’t that be a wonderful house to live in?” Shay asked Chad. When the property came on the market, the Lemonds viewed it, but a year transpired before they bought the house.

“Downtown Madison is filled with many historic homes. At 19 Front Street stands one of the most impressive,” Madison historian John P. Rankin said. “In 1860, the land where the house was built was initially purchased by Madison Station railroad agent, Dr. William B. Dunn, from Madison’s founder, James Clemens.”

Dunn built a small, one-story house where he lived until 1888 when his niece sold the property with other lots for $1,000. In 1889, Dunn purchased adjacent lots during an estate auction for the deceased Clemens. Dunn’s ‘house’ still exists as the western back wing in the current multi-story house, Rankin said.

The Front Street house is the first historic home for the Lemonds. However, Shay was renting a historic home’s apartment in Savannah, Georgia when they met, and they have lived in vintage apartments during their tours in Europe.

“We love all the unique characteristics and charm that comes with older homes versus what you find in modern-built homes,” Shay said. “19 Front Street is the jewel of downtown Madison with the double balcony, curved porch and just the history that comes with the place. We immediately were drawn to the property.”

Eventually, James Edward Williams bought the house for $1,000 in 1904 and expanded it to multiple stories. He also raised ‘Dunn’s house,’ turned it to face west instead of south and moved it slightly north to allow for expansion.

Currently, the Lemonds’ house has approximately 5,000 square feet in two stories, a walk-up attic and nine fireplaces (one is functional). The first floor has the kitchen, living room, parlor, laundry room and primary bedroom/bath. On the second floor, the Lemonds use two of four bedrooms for a game room and Shay’s office/sewing room. Chad uses an enclosed sleeping porch as his office.

The house’s exterior has traditional clapboard siding with brick chimneys. Two large wraparound porches span the house’s front. A small side porch acts as the main entrance to the building’s oldest section.

A back porch is scheduled for rebuilding.

“We enjoy living in our home and want it to be comfortable and welcoming. I used a lot of the colors in the house from

Benjamin Moore, three from the same swatch: living room, ‘Beach Glass’; owner’s suite bedroom, ‘Quiet Moments’ and bath in customized lighter adaptation of ‘Quiet Moments’; and an upstairs bathroom, ‘Healing Aloe.’ The entry foyer and upstairs halls use a soft, neutral creamy white.

“The house had been updated in 2010. I really liked the French white cabinets and a huge copper sink. I decided to get a copper hood for the stove to bring in more of an Old World feel to the room and changed the backsplash to a marble and glass tile,” Shay said. “We lived in France for three years, and I love a nod to French country in the space.”

Most rooms have handsome heart-of-pine floors.

When James Williams owned the house, he farmed cotton, raised livestock and ran a sawmill. His general mercantile store sat at Wise and Main streets. Williams owned a livery and sold farm implements.

Investing in the future, Williams started Madison Telephone Company in 1919 . . . many years before most Southern towns had telephones. “This wise and brilliant Madison resident became one of the wealthiest and most prominent men of his days in the town where he started as a sharecropper,” Rankin said.

Chad’s favorite, nostalgic features are the fireplaces. “A real link to what the original builders wanted, as far as design based on style of the wood, paint and tile in something both functional and necessary. We occasionally will find small pieces of coal outside, reminding us of what the fireplaces burned.”

Shay’s most cherished antique sits in the front parlor.

“We have moved all over with the Army and have collected many things. One of our first antiques is a small Korean rice chest that now sits in the front parlor,” she said.

The family room/kitchen is Chad’s favorite place in the house “It’s where we spend most of our time. Shay designed these rooms with the intent that it would be very comfortable and homey,” Chad said.

“This may seem strange, but I love the hall guest bathroom. When we bought the house, it had gold-and-red tile in the shower. “I wasn’t going to redo the tile and wanted to really bring it out while (giving a) nod to the history of the time period when the house was built,” Shay said.

Shay spent hours searching for wallpaper. She chose a William Morris paper, with designs dating back to the mid-1800s, called “Pimpernel in Brick and Olive.” “I just love the bold colors, design and how you might have found a wallpaper like this when the home was built,” Shay said.

She chose pieces in chinoiserie style, fashionable in

the United States from the mid19th century through 1920s. She found the pieces locally: blackand-gold vanity mirror, Hartlex Antiques Gallery; rosewood chest and Japanese panels, Tammy Eddie Antiques; and small, red Chinese rice chest, Madison Antiques.

For the lawn, Shay is applying her gardening knowledge to reclaim neglected spaces. However, the Lemonds reluctantly had to cut several large trees that storms were threatening to uproot.

“I have a long-term plan to develop the grounds into different garden areas,” Shay said.

“I’m very influenced by Monet’s ‘Garden in Giverny’ and visited it many times when we lived in Paris. Monet planted his gardens to be painted.”

In their paintings, impressionist painters used color theory, which Monet implemented for garden plants. “I intend to try and do that with the garden here,” Shay said.

In addition, “a lovely saucer magnolia is absolutely stunning when in bloom.” Shay will add a trellis to showcase a climbing rose that’s quite old.

Originally from Otwell, Indiana, Chad moved to the Madison area in 2016 after retiring from the Army. “We moved to Madison in 2017 when Shay and my son joined me. I found work post-retirement after Shay encouraged me to look here based on what she had heard,” Chad said. He works in business development for Northrop Grumman.

“I’m from the greater Atlanta area and still have family there. Moving here put me closer to them,” Shay said. Shay is a real estate agent.

Their daughter Lily now lives in Madison after graduating from Auburn University in 2020. Their son Vaughn recently graduated from Middle Tennessee State University and still lives in Murfreesboro. What hobbies do the Lemonds enjoy? “Owning a historic home IS a hobby in itself,” Shay said.

James Williams and his wife Mattie in his at 19 Front Street, circa 1915.

Courtesy of John Rankin

Historic 19 Front Street in downtown Madison and the house’s owners, Chad and Shay Lemond.

Grandpa and Uncle Remus

By BRUCE WALKER Columnist

Grandpa could do anything, including controlling the weather. He would step out on the front porch and look toward the eastern sky, right at daybreak, wring his hands, and pronounce, no rain today.” The next morning the same ritual and he would state matter of fact, ‘We’re not going to the fields today, it is coming a downpour.”

Sure enough, his prognostications were right on the mark. Grandpa did not need a smartphone, he was smart enough on his own, and what he did not know, Grandma did.

I held him in awe, as I grew older, I realized he had limitations, but just barely. With his hands he built a barn, tightened barbed wire, or gently held a newborn, crying, grandchild, quietening as he held the baby to his shoulder. Grandpa was a man of few words, but his actions told his story. A small farm in St. Clair County, AL., and a job at the cotton mill in Pell City provided for his thirteen children and whoever else needed a port in the storm.

One of those individuals, we called Uncle Remus, escaped a storm of his own making, and took cover at Grandpa’s port. Money was scarce but beans, corn and meat were plentiful. Remus rode up to Grandpa and Grandma’s house on an Indian Chief motorcycle, he was 50 years old when he came. I was standing on the porch when he arrived in a cloud of dust, smoke, and noise. With a fulllength leather coat hanging to his knees, hardshell helmet, aviator goggles, gloves and a bright scarf; I could not tell if it was a man or an alien from another planet. By the time Uncle Remus removed his attire, Grandpa had arrived; they took the measure of each other, stared for a moment, then the pull of kinship brought them to an embrace.

Grandpa and Remus were cousins, who had not seen each other since the funeral of their grandfather

25 years ago. Grandpa turned to me and said,” This is your kin, you can call him Uncle Remus.”

Grandpa, without hesitation, offered him a small 2-room cottage, in the back forty, to live in and a plot of land to farm. In the spring of ’56, he broke ground for his first corn crop. Uncle Remus flourished with his newfound family connections. This began our friendship, Uncle Remus treated all of us young kids as equals, and regaled us with his adventures, with no children, and never married, he traveled the countryside hopping freight trains from Florida to California.

Nearly every evening after supper and Bible reading, all of us kids would hurry through the pasture to Remus’s cottage. Sitting on his front porch, we would gather around him in anticipation of what adventure he would tell next. This was much better than the radio or the little brown boxed, round screen black and white TV at Grandma’s and Grandpa’s house. Our eyes were as big as pie plates when he told us of the one game he played professionally, with the Chicago Cubs, playing in the right field position. Remus said, “I was running for a popup fly, jumped to catch the ball, and crashed into the backfield fence, had it in my glove for a split second, then hit the fence, dropped the ball, and broke my left arm, Babe Ruth (we all gasped) rounded the bases for a home run. Babe looked straight at me, I was holding my arm, as he touched second base, later he came by our locker room to check on me.”

We sat in rapt attention, if I had paid as close attention in school as I did to Remus’s tales, I would be a genius by now (ok, that’s an exaggeration).

On the porch around his rocking chair, he stared across the cornfield, summoning up his memories, “I wrestled BAM BAM Bigelow in 1935 in Evanston, Indiana, the crowd was revved up, Bam Bam was leading in the standings for the World Championship Title. In the 7th round, he had me in a

See STORYTELLER Page 8A

A first for hospital: CT scan for Cook Museum’s turtle

By KATIE STEEL The Decatur Daily

DECATUR - Decatur Morgan Hospital had an unusual patient last Tuesday with a natural greenish color and the need for a damp cloth to cover his eyes.

Kale, a critically endangered species of sea turtle from the Cook Museum of Natural Science, received a computerized tomography (CT) scan at the hospital to check his progress recovering from an infection that has kept him from being in an exhibit for 18 months.

“This was the first animal of any kind that we’ve ever done a CT scan of over here at Decatur Morgan,” said Candace Pettey, the hospital’s marketing and community relations coordinator. “It was a lot of fun to watch, and as an animal lover, I’m glad we got to help him out.”

Kale, a Kemp’s ridley sea turtle, has been suffering from an infection on his carapace, or shell, and was removed from display at the Cook Museum, where he was the unofficial mascot, in January 2022. Kale came to the museum in 2020 because he couldn’t be returned to the wild following surgery to repair damage to his throat when he was accidentally hooked by a recreational fisherman in Virginia’s Chesapeake Bay.

The infection is a separate issue from the neck injury. Joy Harris, marketing coordinator at the museum, said they are unsure when or how the infection got started.

“This could have been present

This sweet ‘sandwich’ is a favorite summertime dessert

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON - Ice cream

sandwiches are a treat any day of the year, but can be particularly refreshing when the mercury climbs.

According to the ice cream novelty company Ice Cream Social, ice cream sandwiches may have evolved from a treat called “okey-pokey” that was once served by street vendors in London. This dessert was a slice of vanilla ice cream cut from a large slab. Providing an easier and more portable way to enjoy a serving of ice cream, ice cream sandwiches, food histori-

before he was even accidentally caught in New England, so we really don’t know how long this has been in his system,” she said. “It’s kind of like humans, he could’ve picked it up anywhere.”

The CT scan was done to examine the infection and monitor the success of the Cook Museum’s veterinarians and animal care team in treating Kale’s damaged carapace.

“This was to kind of quantify how much he has progressed,” Harris said. “We knew he was mending, but this helps us tell the extent of his healing.”

As of Thursday morning, the museum did not have any “complete results to share” from the CT scan, according to Harris.

Kale did not have to be sedated to get his scan. “He was a good turtle and stayed calm,” said Harris.

Pettey had the opportunity to

watch the scan.

“We’re used to caring for the human members of our community so it’s nice when we get to do something a little bit different, especially to help another one of the organizations in Decatur,” she said.

Dr. Frank Scalfano, Dr. John Owens and other members of the hospital’s staff from varying departments helped facilitate the scan. Some museum staff, including live animal manager Cassandra Worlund, were also in the scanning room to help move Kale from his container to the scanning bed.

Sea turtles breathe air and only use water to “moisturize their skin and eyes,” according to Worlund, which is a reason a damp towel was kept over his eyes during the scan process. Kemp’s ridley sea turtles can weigh up to

Kale, a Kemp’s ridley sea turtle from the Cook Museum of Natural Science, receives a CT scan to examine his infection at Decatur Morgan Hospital last Tuesday.

U.S. women’s suffrage movement begun - On July 19, 1848, the women’s suffrage movement in the United States was launched with the opening of the Seneca Falls Convention, which sought to gain certain rights and privileges for women, notably the right to vote.

Summer Movies

Library’s MAD Summer Movie Spectacular to show “The Princess Bride” July 20

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

Huntsville Botanical Garden and UAH partner for Shakespeare in the Garden

HUNTSVILLE – Transport to a dreamy English forest or get a ring-side seat for the Battle of Agincourt as Huntsville Botanical Garden and UAH’s

Huntsville Shakespeare present Shakespeare in the Garden. All are invited to join the “merry wanderers of the night” on Aug. 11 and 19 for A Mid-

summer Night’s Dream. Those interested in a more serious topic are invited to enjoy Henry V on Aug. 12 and 18. All performances will be held in the amphi-

theater at Huntsville Botanical Garden.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream is Shakespeare’s greatest comedy about love, fairies, and donkeys. This 90-minute performance is family-friendly and sure to please everyone with its reminder that “the course of true love never did run smooth.”

Based on historical events, Henry V is Shakespeare’s exploration of what it means to be a hero, a patriot and a king. This 90-minute family-friendly version will take audiences from the castles of England to the battlefields of France and go “once more unto the breach, dear friends, once more!”

Tickets are $25 for Garden members, $30 for non-members, and can be purchased at www.hsvbg. org. There are no rain dates and no refunds for canceled performances.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Light snacks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase at the event. Guests are prohibited from bringing alcohol into the Garden.

Dog Nights

The Botanical Garden is welcoming the entire family this summer with the gardens open for fourlegged pals on select nights through August. Dog Nights take place on Garden Mondays from 4pm to 6pm until August 28. Put a twist on your daily dog walk with a stroll through beauty of the Huntsville Botanical Garden.

MADISON - The MAD Summer Movie Spectacular at the Madison Public Library kicked off last month and continues every Thursday night in June and July. The auditorium is open at 6:00 p.m. and the movies start at 6:30 p.m. Food and drink are allowed in the auditorium during the movies. Treats will be provided by our summer movie sponsor, Renasant Bank.

This week, July 20, the movie being shown is “The Princess Bride”.

A young bedridden boy’s grandfather tells

him a “kissing story” to get him to go to sleep. He’s swept into the story of high adventure as farmboy-turned-pirate Westly encounters challenges, challengers and allies in his journey to reunite with his one true love, Buttercup.

It’s a mix of high adventure, fantasy, romance and comedy that makes it perfect for family movie night or date night.

The Madison Public Library is located at 142 Plaza Blvd in Madison. For more information, go to www.events.hmcpl.org.

The last movie scheduled this summer will be Ghostbusters on July 27.

The Trash Pandas Summer Movie Series continues on July 20 with a screening of “Angels in the Outfield” at Toyota Field. Bring a blanket and sit in the outfield to enjoy the film on the videoboard, presented by Floor and Decor! Gates open at 6pm, movie starts at 7pm. RSVP at: www.milb.com/rocket-city/ events/movies.

Fireball Mail bluegrass band is the next offering for the City Lights & Stars Concert Series 30th season at Burritt on the Mountain. Pack a picnic, dress casually, bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy a spectacular view of the city while listening to great music. Food trucks will be onsite with food and dessert available for purchase.

Star Wars Invasion

July 22-23 • EarlyWorks 404 Madison Street in Huntsville • earlyworks.com

Celebrations Bridal Event

July 30 • Noon to 4 p.m. • Von Braun Civic Center East Hall • www.modernbridesinc.com

Modern Brides has been hosting the Celebrations Bridal Event for over 30 years. This bridal event is North Alabama’s’ largest bridal show. Over 100 vendors participate. While brides are going from booth to booth they will notice a continuous fashion show presented by Modern Brides. Brides and their attendants are entertained with a beautiful show of wedding gowns and bridesmaids gowns that will showcase the latest styles. The music and decorations set the stage for an entertaining afternoon. The floral arrangements, draping, lighting, hair styles, and makeup add a gorgeous intimate wedding feel, and are provided by the vendors that attend this event. Vendors supply hundreds of door prizes in our special prize area. Free services, jewelry, floral arrangements, cookware, and honeymoons are just a few of the prizes given away to almost every bride that attends. There is a large variety of food sampling from fabulous caterers. Jewelry, musicians, hair stylists and make up artists, photographers and video specialist, cake bakers, wedding planners, DJ’s, travel agents, florists, venues and much much more will all wow you with the beautiful displays of their work!

Smoke in the Outfield BBQ Festival

Aug. 4-5 • Toyota Field in Madison • trashpandasbaseball.com

Featuring the Grammy® winning songs and Tony® winning moves, AIN’T TOO PROUD is the electrifying new musical that follows The Temptations’ extraordinary journey from the streets of Detroit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. With their signature dance moves and unmistakable harmonies, they rose to the top of the charts creating an amazing 42 Top Ten Hits with 14 reaching number one and being voted the greatest R&B group of all time by Billboard Magazine. The rest is history — how they met, the groundbreaking heights they hit, and how personal and political conflicts threatened to tear the group apart as the United States fell into civil unrest. This thrilling story of brotherhood, family, loyalty, and betrayal is set to the beat of the group’s treasured hits, like “My Girl,”“Just My Imagination,” “Get Ready,” “Papa Was a Rolling Stone,” and more.

$1,200

Activities throughout the museum will keep your little Jedi’s busy. Guests can have their pictures taken with costumed Star Wars characters from the Legions. Don’t miss out on this special weekend... it will be out of this world!

*Characters will be present from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. on Sunday.

The newest barbecue festival in the Tennessee Valley is coming to Toyota Field, with the debut of the Smoke In The Outfield BBQ Festival at the home of the Rocket City Trash Pandas.

The festival will bring amateur cook teams from across the region to North Alabama, with competitions taking place in a variety of categories including chicken, ribs, and pork. The event kicks off with the VIP Opening Night Celebration on Friday, August 4 at 5:30 p.m., with introductions of the cook teams and their specialties as they prepare the next day’s competitions.

Free live entertainment including a live band, face painting, balloon animals, outdoor games, and a mechanical bull will be on hand for attendees. Food and beverages will be available for purchase, including pulled pork, beef brisket, smoked turkey, and specialty drinks.

On Saturday, August 5, the festival will be from 12-5 p.m. with more live entertainment, games on the concourse, local vendors on hand, and of course, the barbecue stations where guests can sample and/or purchase their favorite foods.

All competitions will take place on Saturday, with the awards presentation set for Saturday afternoon. Guests can arrive to watch judges begin critiquing the competitors’ food beginning at 12 with the judging of chicken, then ribs at 12:30, and finally pork at 1 p.m. People’s Choice sampling will begin at 1:30 p.m. for guests that have purchased special sampling tickets.

Family Campout in the Garden

July 21-22 • 5 p.m. to 8 a.m. Huntsville Botanical Garden www.hsvbg.org

New to camping? Don’t feel like traveling far to spend a relaxing evening outdoors?

Come join the Garden campout presented by Bankston Motor Homes. There will be a hot dog dinner, s’mores to roast over the fire, a story at bedtime, and a chance to experience the Garden on a guided night hike.

Located at 1088 Hughes Road, next to Trinity Baptist Church, Madison City Farmers Market is a producer-only farmers market founded in 2007. Vendors provide a wide selection of the freshest local veggies, fruits, cheese, eggs, meats, milk, herbs, honey, jams, relishes, home-baked goods, plants and flowers. Come see creations from local artisans including handmade cards, soaps, lotions, candles, wood crafts, sewn items and other handmade products. For more go to madisoncityfarmersmarket.com.

Storyteller Continued from page 5A

chokehold, I accidentally tangled my legs in his and we both fell to the mat with me on top. I knocked his breath out, I laid there on top for the count,” the referee said, “A pin is a pin.” Remus laughed, “I won but had to high tail it out of town on my motorcycle, with his fans in hot pursuit.” Hoboing one coast to the other, us cousins thought he was Paul Bunyan and Davy Crockett all rolled into one!

In 1969, in his 70s he was still farming with two mules and a bottom plow. All the farms around him were mechanized using Massey-Ferguson, John Deere, or Ford. Stopping by, they would chide Remus for not “keeping up with the times”, he would holler “Whoa” to the mules, take off his sweat-stained fedora, wipe sweat from his face with the old bandanna he kept in the back pocket of his overalls, he would say, “I’ll tell you

boys, those mechanized contraptions are going to be the ruination of the nation, raping the ground at ungodly speeds, belching smoke and noise.” 50+ years later, I still miss hearing about Uncle Remus’s adventures. When he died, going through his old WWII duffel bag, Grandpa found a box with a folded poster inside advertising, “For the World Championship – “Rabid Remus” and “Bam Bam Bigelow,” in an envelope, a pay stub from the Chicago Cubs for $170.00. You never know when it is a story or the truth.

Bruce Walker chooses to see the humor in life’s events. In addition to writing a weekly column, He speaks regularly to a wide variety of groups. You may contact Bruce at bruce@brucestoryteller.com or visit his website www.BruceStoryteller. com

ans believe, were invented in 1899 by an unnamed pushcart vendor in New York City’s Bowery neighborhood. This vendor served vanilla ice cream between two graham wafers.

The modern ice cream sandwich, which is the more recognizable rectangular serving of vanilla ice cream nestled between two chocolate cookie wafers, is attributed to Jerry Newberg.

Newberg began selling these novelties at Forbes Field in Pittsburgh in 1945. Ice cream sandwiches gained popularity around this time for their portability as well as their flavor, so much so that the popular Carvel® ice cream company unveiled its own take on the ice cream sandwich - The Flying Saucer® - in 1951 to celebrate the opening of its 100th franchise shop.

Other manufacturers have their own ice cream sandwich incarnations, and ingredients vary around the world. Cookies, cakes, biscuits or other ingredients serve as the “bread” to hold the ice cream in place. The novelties also are not difficult to make at home. People can

100 pounds, but the process of moving Kale to the hospital went smoothly.

A Cook Museum vehicle was used to transport Kale. He was placed in a large gray bin with a “piece of bone” on the bottom, which acted as a “mattress” for the turtle to lie on, Worlund said. They used the same bin they used when they originally transported him from Virginia.

Cook Museum Executive Director Scott Mayo said in a statement that Decatur Morgan Hospital staff have “gone above and beyond” in their concern and care for Kale. He asked the hospital in late June if they could possibly get a scan for Kale, and the hospital responded quickly.

Hospital President Kelly Powers said in the statement: “We are so glad that we could help Kale and our friends at the Cook Museum.”

Since he was taken off display, Kale has been cared for at an off-site facility by the museum’s veterinary team and animal care staff for “over 900 manhours,” Harris said.

Worlund is part of the animal care team. “Basically, what we’re doing is changing a bandage every week,” she said. “We’re making sure we’re clearing out any infection that he has.”

The team uses a “type of bone cement” to keep his infection sealed. They make sure there is “no water getting in,

experiment at home by scooping softened ice cream and placing it between home-baked or store-bought cookies.

Ice cream sandwiches also can be turned into other desserts, such as an ice cream sandwich cake or an icebox cake. All that is needed are a few ingredients and some imagination.

Unwrap ice cream sandwiches and layer them in a cake pan, such as a rectangular or a round springform pan (cut the sandwiches in half for the springform pan and layer vertically versus horizontally in a rectangular pan), with hot fudge, caramel sauce and whipped topping, as desired. Extras like chopped nuts, sprinkles, crumbled cookies, or chopped up chocolate bars can be added to the cake to customize flavor. End with a top layer of whipped topping for the “frosting.” The ice cream cake should be covered and frozen for at least 30 minutes before serving. The internet is full of ice cream sandwich cake recipes in greater detail for those who need more guided instruction. This is one treat that probably won’t have many leftovers.

and he’s allowed to heal those wounds,” said Worlund.

Kale is still a “juvenile” turtle, only an estimated 7 to 10 years old, according to Harris.

There is no timeline for when Kale can return to the museum’s 15,000-gallon saltwater aquarium because the staff wants to make sure the turtle has a “clean bill of health” before he is back.

The 28-foot-long and 6-foot-deep aquarium houses approximately 100 fish representing about 30 species along with Kale.

“We’re going to take all precautions before putting him back in the tank, so we don’t have to take him back off after he returns to the exhibit,” Harris said.

After Kale was caught by a fisherman’s hook in 2019, he had numerous surgeries. The turtle’s wound from the hook could not fully heal, causing scar tissue to develop and form a fistula, where debris can get caught. Due to this, Kale needs medical attention frequently and cannot be released back into the wild.

When he makes his eventual return to the museum’s aquarium, staff will watch carefully to make sure Kale stays healthy. “We will continue to do the regular care to make sure that nothing is caught in his fistula,” she said. “We’ll also just keep an extra careful eye on him to make sure he doesn’t show any more signs” of infection.

Trash Pandas drop 3-game series to Biloxi Shuckers, facing Wahoos this week

National Merit

JC track coach earns All-American honors at National Senior Games

By BOB LABBE bob@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON - “I’m tired. I’m ready to go home and see my family and team.” Words of exhaustion and achievement from Drew Bell after his incredible week-long stay in Pittsburgh where he participated in the 2023 National Senior Games after qualifying in four events, all of which where he earned All-American honors for finishing among the top eight in each event.

“Mission accomplished with 16 All-American performances for me this year,” said the 57-year old Bell, who had 12 additional All-American perfor-

Greenway running

mances in an array of challenging events earlier in the year. “I don’t have to be strong, fast or tough enough. I did my best. Jesus did the rest.”

Bell, the head coach of the James Clemens track and cross country programs, qualified for the National Senior Games in the 10K and 5K races along with the 800 and 1500-meter events in the men ages 55-59 division.

In his first event, Bell completed in the 5K and finished seventh with a time of 20:42.88 while the race winner was Scott Siriano of Colorado with a time of 18:27.84. There were 451 runners in all divisions and Bell was 14th overall while his age division had five among

the top 10 finishers. “It was a tough race course as we started the race uphill for nearly two miles and more climbs as the race went on,” said Bell of the course that began and finished on Schenley Drive just east of downtown Pittsburgh. “At the awards ceremony, I proudly was asked to hold the American flag during the playing of the National Anthem. I did so with two others, including the race winner. Afterwards, they held a Block Party for all to attend.”

Next came the grueling 10K race. Timothy Vigil of New Mexico flew through the course with a winning time of 37:51.86 while Bell managed a finish time of

Local greenways and trails offer diverse conditions for runners

By BOB LABBE bob@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON - For most running enthusiasts becoming complacent in their surroundings and favorite places to get on their feet is something that is more common than one would think. Many times, complacency can

cause boredom and lack of effort, so, most running experts encourage diversity in where to run and explore new places in the area in which to go through the challenges to make for great exercising. Being a creature of habit can certainly be an issue for runners, but knowing where to go

to expand the horizons of the form of exercise can make for better conditioning, both mentally and physically. There are plenty of greenways and trails to entice even the best runner to new heights. One of the first tips in trail running is to challenge yourself and get out of your per-

See RUNNING Page 2B

By CALEB ODOM caleb@themadisonrecord.com

BILOXI, MISS. - It was a lighter week for the Rocket City Trash Pandas with four days off to rest up before a 3-game set on the road against the Biloxi Shuckers.

The Trash Pandas (7-6) are currently tied for second place in the Southern League North standings with The Chattanooga Lookouts (8-7) while the Tennessee Smokies (10-5) continue to lead the way.

Both Rocket City and Chattanooga are two games behind Tennessee as of Monday afternoon.

The Birmingham Barons resides in the fourth-place position in the SLN 4 1/2 games out of first with a 5-9 record.

July 14: Rocket City 8, Biloxi 7

The first game of the series was a high-scoring contest, but Rocket City was able to edge out the Shuckers (6-8) despite being out-hit nine hits to seven in the game.

Biloxi took an early 1-0 advantage when Tyler Black hit a solo home run to left field.

The Trash Pandas struck back in the top of the third inning with a trio of runs to take the 3-1 lead.

The offensive surge began when Kyren Paris hit a sacrifice fly that scored teammate Tucker Flint.

Jeremiah Jackson’s 2-run single plated Jose Gomez and David Calabrese.

The Shuckers pulled within a run in the bottom of the third inning when Jackson Chourio clubbed his 12th home run of the year to make the score 3-2 Rocket City.

It was the top of the fourth inning when Jose Gomez knocked in Tucker Flint to expand the Trash Panda lead to 4-2 with another run.

Rocket City had seemingly pulled away in this game with four more runs in the top of the eighth inning to lead 8-2, but a late charge by the Shuckers in the bottom of the ninth inning made this game suspenseful until the end.

Biloxi was able to tally five runs in the ninth, but that would be all the club could put together as the Shuckers fell one run shy of tying the game up.

July 15: Biloxi 1, Rocket City 0

The Saturday game featured far less offense as Biloxi scored one run in the bottom of the first inning to defeat the Trash Pandas.

It was a line-drive home run to left field by Jeferson Quero that made all the difference for the Shuckers.

Biloxi turned to starting pitcher Carlos Rodriguez who

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation announced additional winners of National Merit Scholarships that U.S.

There are plenty of Greenways and trails in and near Madison for running enthusiasts as the outdoors presents challenges and many times magnificent scenery.

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Bell

Continued from page 1B

42:08.06 good enough for seventh place and another All-American honor. Bell’s race finish time was a personal best by at least five minutes.

“I’m very happy with the times I had in the national event as I didn’t think I could run with some of these talented guys,” said Bell. “I’ve never been anywhere with so much quality competition.”

With a four-day rest prior to his final two races, Bell and his wife enjoyed many of the local sites around the Steel City including touring the variety of rustic churches in the area and visiting the University of Pittsburgh campus. After a well-needed break from competition, Bell made his way to the Track and Field portion of the Senior National Games for his two final events.

In the 800-meter race, Bell posted a sixth place finish with a time of 2:33.14

while Charles Novak of Ohio was first at 2:17.25. Last on the agenda came the 1500-meter jaunt and Bell didn’t disappoint himself as he was part of the slow, tactical pack with most not making a move to the front until the last 400 meters. Novak again took top honors at 4:35.90 while Bell came through with his best finish of the National Senior Games in fifth with a finish time of 5:21.64.

“This was the best inspirational event I’ve ever been on as just to see 50 guys who were in the age 100-plue competing was truly something to experience,” added Bell. “It was a place where I belong. There’s nothing bad about this event as I saw a lot of joy.”

“I won the battle within myself in Pittsburgh. I’m seeing a new level of myself and I’m more confident,” said Bell.

Trash Pandas

Continued from page 1B

provided his club with five scoreless innings of 2-hit ball that included nine strikeouts and three walks.

Despite being on the losing side, Rocket City starting pitcher Victor Mederos did little to hang his head about going six innings where he allowed just one run on five hits with four walks and a pair of strikeouts.

July 16: Biloxi 7, Rocket City 3

The Shuckers were able to put on a hit parade in the Sunday finale to

sonal zone of running, and Madison has just what the running doctor ordered.

There are three main Greenways in Madison to meet even needs of a runner. There is Indian Creek (3 miles), Mill Creek (3 miles) and Bradford Creek (2.24 miles). All are very popular with the majority of runners who frequent the trails as the locales are mostly flat and shaded. Some of the shade has been known to be 20 degrees cooler than the sun-drenched parts of the trails.

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For those wishing to stay with running in local neighborhoods and not venture to the local Greenways, the row of roads and houses behind Fleet Feet of Madison, located

take the condensed 3-game series with a pair of victories.

The third game was driven by a 5-run outburst in the bottom of the fourth inning for Biloxi that turned a narrow 2-1 Shuckers lead into a 6-1 edge.

Isaac Collins’ 3-run home run in the fourth powered the Shuckers into the driver’s seat of this game.

With time running out, the Trash Pandas mounted a comeback in the

on Hughes Road across the street from City Hall, features some rolling hills with plenty of shade and very little in the amount of traffic. The Dublin Walking Path at Dublin Memorial Park off Old Madison Pike is a perfect place for light runs for those wishing for good exercise without overextending their stamina. The Dublin path is a slightly ascending paved half-mile trek, which runs along the border of the park among the many soccer fields. The scenery includes a giant hillside oak tree and the Madison River of Hope near the outdoor pool.

For some extra challenge including good inclines, those on their jaunts through Madison can utilize Clift’s Cove and Stoneridge Neighborhoods. In addition, the Rainbow Mountain neighborhood can really present some uphill challenges, which according to many, are the toughest in Madison. The trek is a 1.5mile loop, but extremely tough, especially during warm weather months. New, but nice, is the Bradford Greenway that provides enormous amount of shade for comfort.

Tips for running trails and Greenways this time

top of the ninth with a home run by Bryce Teodosio to left center that made the score 7-3, but it would not be enough.

Rocket City continues its road trip this week with a series against the Pensacola Blue Wahoos (7-8).

The Tuesday through Thursday games begin at 6:35 p.m. while the Saturday contest starts at 6:05 p.m.

The Sunday game is slated to begin at 4:05 p.m.

of year include putting a pace on yourself. The terrain can easily determine your running pace. Include safety in your runs. Know the details of each trail or Greenway as each trail is unique so it is best to know the trails before you make a step towards a good run. As for running trails, it’s always best to use your arms to help propel your body, especially on hills.

Outside of Madison there are loads of amazing Greenways and trails. One of the newest is Hays Farm in South Huntsville. This Greenway is part of the Singing River Trail. It’s gorgeous. The old standard trail and one of the most beautiful areas for trails is Monte Sano State Park. There are great trails with plenty of shade and each is known for its own level of challenge, plus one includes the closed portion of Bankhead Highway up the backside to Monte Sano. A nice hilly course is the Panorama Loop from Monte Sano Elementary School. You can park at the school next to the Fire Station and make a trek that can be up to 10 miles long.

Other locales in Huntsville, which offer mag-

nificent shade and even some restrooms include the Hays Nature Preserve in Hampton Cove with its 10 miles of trails and Greenway. The Eastern Bypass extension is included where you can add more miles, but there is less shade for coverage. The Aldridge Creek Greenway is a remarkable running location located in South Huntsville and leads all the way South to Ditto Landing.

Outside the Madison area, there are wonderous locales for making your running habits become even more enjoyable. Decatur’s Point Mallard Trail features a flat course along the Tennessee River. In Limestone County, the town of Elkmont is host to the Richard Martin Trail with over 10 miles of easy trails for the entire family. Two additional areas to run include the Duck River in Cullman and the Guntersville Greenway.

The later area is a new, but splendid place for a great run located not far from the new City Harbor on Guntersville Lake. The new shopping/restaurant area of Guntersville is hopping with excitement and can be a great place to relax after a good jaunt on the Greenway.

Drew Bell of Madison, far right, leads a group of runners in one of his four a races as part of the National Senior Games. Bell earned All-American honors in each of his finishes.

Drew Bell runs proudly during one of his four events at the National Senior Games held in Pittsburgh.

The Madison City Board of Education recently approved the retirement of longtime educator Dr. Maria Kilgore, ACCESS Support Center director and former Special Education director for Madison City Schools. Dr. Kilgore’s retirement will be effective Aug. 1. Superintendent Dr. Ed Nichols thanked Kilgore (pictured in center in group photo) for service spanning 50 years in education, including 25 in the Madison City School system and service in Madison County and several other states. She presently serves as director of the ACCESS Support Center for North Alabama housed in the MCS Central Office.

Bob Jones High School student earns college-sponsored Merit scholarship

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – On July 10, National Merit Scholarship Corporation announced additional winners of National Merit Scholarships that U.S. colleges and universities award to students.

The only recipient from the Madison area in this group was Bryce C. League. His probable choice for a career field is physics. League attended Bob Jones High School.

League received the National Merit University of Alabama Scholarship. UA

offers more than 125 undergraduate and 135 graduate majors through 13 colleges and schools. Approximately 38,000 individuals are enrolled at UA from all 50 states and 92 foreign countries.

This group of National Merit Scholar designees is the last round of recipients for 2023 by the corporation. In three releases earlier this year, the corporation announced winners of Merit Scholarship Awards from corporate sponsors, National Merit Scholarship Awards for $2,500 and the first round of awards that colleges fund.

For more, visit nationalmerit.org.

Snapshot

SIGNS THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR IS NEAR - Madison City Schools held an administrators retreat last week in preparation of the new school year just two weeks away. Principals, assistant principals and system administrators convened last Wednesday at the Central Office for a day of leadership discussions and excercises and a collaborative challenge building a project from a STEM kit. Superintendent Dr. Ed Nichols led the admins in discussions on creating positive work and learning environments that can help schools empower all students to reach their potential. Madison Hospital president Mary Lynne Wright gave a talk on leadership with tips on setting expectations, motivating and valuing employees, and other guidance. The retreat ended with a team building activity - a bowling competition of randomly selected teams. Check out The Madison Record’s Back-to-School section in the July 26 issue.

Fantasy Playhouse sets auditions for ‘The Jungle Book’

By GREGG PARKER gregg@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – Fantasy

Playhouse Children’s Theater and Academy will conduct auditions soon for the story of Mowgli, Baloo and all their friends in the jungle.

Culver’s celebrates opening of second Madison-area restaurant in Clift Farm

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON - Culver’s is now serving up its beloved butterburgers and custard at a second Madison-area location!

Culver’s in Clift Farm opened to hungry diners recently. The Madison Chamber of Commerce along with Madison County Commissioner Mac McCutcheon made the new restaurant’s opening official with a ribbon cutting last week week. The location is the second for franchise owner Mike Hinesh who owns Madison and North Alabama’s original Culver’s on Wall Triana Highway in front of the Kroger shopping center.

The Wall Triana Culver’s opened in June 2020 as the first of the Wisconsin-based chain in North Alabama and one the first few in the entire state. Hinesh and his crew overcame the challenges of opening during the COVID-19 pandemic, and for their exceptional work and cus-

tomer service, were presented with the chain’s Franchisee Newcomer Award in 2021.

After the success of the first location, Hinesh knew a second one was needed.

“It was well-received by the community for the first one. Why not do a second one?”, he said.

He immediately looked to the Clift Farm development, which had been in consideration for the first location but was unavailable at the time.

The Blue Crew is bringing the same outstanding customer service and fresh, made-to-order food to the Clift Farm restaurant. Culver’s Clift Farm retains the homestyle charm inside of the Wall Triana location as well as patio seating but improves the dining experience with a double drive-thru and increased booth seating for dine-in guests.

Hinesh attributes the warm welcome Culver’s has received from Madison to the quality of food and service and the variety of the menu,

OLLI celebrates 30 years and counting of lifelong learning, luncheon planned

By MARIA RAKOCZY news@themadisonrecord.com

HUNTSVILLE - College

education doesn’t have to end in your twenties, and the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at UAH has been making sure that education is a lifelong adventure for thirty great years!

UAH has been encouraging lifelong learning since the Academy of Lifelong Learning was founded in 1993. In 2005, the academy transitioned to an affiliate of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, a network of one-hundred twenty-five programs on university campuses nationwide supported by the Bernard Osher Foundation.

“We’re all a resource to one another,” the manager of OLLI at UAH, Clay Williams, said. “Not only can we go to the Osher Foundation for information, but we’re all connected via annual meetings,

email and other avenues to lean on each other for bettering our organization.”

The year is OLLI at UAH’s milestone thirtieth year, and the program is celebrating its birthday with a special luncheon on Aug. 3. Author of “Rocket Boys” and Huntsville local, Homer Hickam, is the keynote speaker, and the UAH Propulsion Research Center will offer a rocket demonstration at the event. Representatives from OLLI programs at the University of Alabama and Auburn University will also be present in celebration of Alabama OLLI Day, which is also on Aug. 3.

OLLI offers a wide variety of classes and field trips throughout the year. The upcoming fall semester will have a total of more than sixty different classes at UAH, including “Common Ethics in World Religions,” “Great Books:

“I think its well-received not only from the freshness standpoint, but we have a very diverse menu. So, if you want a salad, you can get a salad. It’s just not burgers and frozen custard. I think that’s what the guests have been very receptive of.”

At the ribbon cutting for the new location, Madison Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Michelle Epling expressed her enthusiasm for a second location, “We are so excited to have another location for our families that live in and around the Madison-Huntsville area to have a quick place to grab a nice family meal during their busy afternoon and evening activities.”

The Culver’s chain is rapidly expanding beyond Wisconsin and the Midwest nationwide, and the Clift Farm store is the chain’s nine-hundred twenty-first store. Culver’s in Clift Farm is open 10 am to 10 pm Monday through Sunday. Visit culvers.com for more information.

Open-call auditions for “The Jungle Book” will be held at Fantasy Playhouse, 3312 Long Ave. in Huntsville. The minimum age for cast members is eight years old by July 22. Audition times will be July 22 at 10 a.m.; doors will open at 9:30 a.m. On July 23, auditions will start at 2 p.m.; doors will open at 1:30 p.m.

“Are you ready to join Mowgli and Baloo in an all-new, reimagined version of this classic tale? Help bring the story of Mowgli, Baloo and all their friends to life this fall. Life-sized puppets, larger-than-life puppets or both will portray all non-human characters,” according to the website, fantasyplayhouse.org.

The story is set in the mysterious jungle, which is home for Mowgli, a curious young boy raised by wolves. A fearsome tiger’s mighty roar forces Mowgli to leave the only home he has ever known.

Mowgli must rely on the guidance of his new friends: a pragmatic panther and a big brother bear. Mowgli learns valu-

able life lessons through self-discovery, brave adventures and the jungle’s rules.

To expedite auditions, auditionees should pre-register online at fantasyplayhouse.org/auditions.

Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theater and Academy is committed to casting practices that reflect the diverse community. Performers of all races, abilities and identities within the specified age range are encouraged to audition.

Robyn Mitchell is serving as director. Audition slots will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Auditionees will read from the script, so prepared readings aren’t required. Callbacks will be by invitation only on July 23 at 6 p.m. Fantasy Playhouse’s production team will contact performers by phone with an official invitation.

Show times will be Oct. 19, 20 and 27 at 7 p.m.; and Oct. 21, 22, 28 and 29 at 1 and 6 p.m.

A sensory-friendly matinee will be performed on Oct. 28 at 10 a.m. Student matinees on Oct. 26 will be presented at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.

For more information, call 256-539-6829, email info@fantasyplayhouse. com or visit fantasyplayhouse.org/auditions.

Richard Landolt served 32 years in U.S. Navy, retired as 2-Star Rear Admiral

By GREGG PARKER gregg@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – Richard Landolt graduated from the University of Florida in 1981 with a Navy ROTC scholarship. He quickly started to serve in the U.S. Navy.

“I retired 32 years later as a 2-Star Rear Admiral,” he said.

At the University of Florida, Landolt earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master’s degree in Telecommunications Systems Management.

“I commanded three ships, an amphibious squadron and an Aircraft Carrier Battle Group,” Landolt said. “I had four Pentagon tours and four assignments in Europe.”

He completed three tours on NATO staffs (which includes his last tour when Landolt was a civilian).

Landolt’s hometown is Hollywood, Fla. “We moved to Madison two years ago (2021). I visited the Huntsville area in 2015 for the first time and was impressed with all it had to offer my family,” he said.

“Beth, my wife, is a massage practitioner. (Our) son Joshua, 15 years old, will attend Bob Jones High School” starting in the 20232024 school year, Landolt said.

In civic involvement, Richard Landolt is a member of Rotary Club of Madison; Madison American Legion, Post 229; the Military Officers Association or MOAA; and the Surface Navy Association.

“I have a part-time position as an Analyst for the Center of Naval Analysis, which is a think tank in the Washington D.C. area,” Landolt said. In addition, Landolt serves as the President and CEO of Still Serving Veterans, which honors veteran families by empowering them

laboration. (www.ssv.org)

General Manager Mike Hinesh and local leaders cut the ribbon on Culver’s at Clift Farm.

Members of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at The University of Alabama in Huntsville are ready to celebrate 30 years of lifelong learning programs on Thursday, Aug. 3.

During service in the U.S. Navy, Richard Landolt commanded three ships, an amphibious squadron and an Aircraft Carrier Battle Group.

Keep in the know with ‘Activity Guide’ from Madison Parks and Rec

By GREGG PARKER gregg@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – Is my son too old to play youth baseball? What’s the address for our neighborhood park? Will the city rent a pool at Dublin Park for my daughter’s birthday party?

These questions and hundreds more can be answered with the Madison Parks and Recreation Department’s Activity Guide. The booklet documents summer program information, dates and registration procedures.

The document opens appropriately with a quick profile of Kory Alfred, Director of Madison Parks and Recreation Department. Alfred works in an ever-changing environment as he oversees Madison’s parks, special events and holiday experiences.

The “General Information” sections lists a staff directory for the parks/rec department and Dublin Parks’ hours.

“Memberships” explains joining online and has a table with the types and fees for park memberships.

“Parks & Facilities” describes Madison’s main city sites for

recreation: Dublin Park, Palmer Park and Kids Kingdom now under construction for renovation and reclamation as an all-access playground. Park maps show the sections for specific sports and gathering space for teams or residents who rent a space for reunions or meetings.

An overview of Madison Senior Center explains the objectives of this popular city facility and states the center’s most popular activities. Currently, the center is open at 1282 Hughes Road (next door to Discovery Middle School) but will have a new home at the Madison Community Center, now under renovation.

A list of Madison’s 41 neighborhood parks states the acreage and available features at each park. A city map pinpoints all parks. Madison Assisted Ride System or MARS’ text explains the bus transportation that qualified residents can use.

A section for “Aquatics” discusses this popular option for children’s fun and adult exercise at Dublin Park’s indoor/ outdoor pools. The city offers swimming lessons to groups or private sessions. Did you know that a family can use the out-

door pool or indoor aquatic center for a private party?

The guide’s “Youth Programs” has a convenient list of team sports, including volleyball, basketball, soccer, football, cheer squads, tennis and baseball. The section also lists camps and clinics. “Adult Programs” in Madison include volleyball, softball and the extremely popular sport of pickleball.

“Frequently Asked Questions” gives answers to some topics that residents have about recreation options.

“Facility Rentals” in the guide states the costs and time slots for room rental in Dublin Park’s building. The guide lists local businesses and organizations who sponsor city activities.

A registration form for sports and other city-sponsored groups is available, along with general information, like age requirements and payment options, for interested residents.

Even the advertisements are informative because those pages describe events, teams and opportunities that the ‘rec’ department offers.

For more information or online registration, visit madisonal.gov/recreation. To access

A handy compilation of recreational activities like pickleball is available in the Madison Parks and Recreation Department’s Activity Guide.

and “Parks and Recreation” and then click the guide’s graphic on the right of the page.

At their annual picnic, members of Madison Station Historical Preservation Society gathered on the front lawn of Dennis Vaughn’s home on Front Street in historic downtown Madison.

Madison Station Historical Preservation Society’s picnic relishes food and fellowship

By GREGG PARKER gregg@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – The Madison Station Historic Preservation Society hosted its annual summer picnic recently.

Historical society members gathered in the attractive front lawn of Dennis Vaughn’s home on Front Street. Vaughn is a founding member of the historical society.

Society President Debbie Overcash welcomed the crowd to the picnic. Vaughn gave the blessing for the food that was placed on a long stretch of tables.

Society members, family and friends enjoyed barbecue and all the fixings that

OLLI

SOUNDS OF SUMMER - A good crowd gathered Thursday evening for Madison Arts Alliance’s free concert series, “Sounds of Summer.” Held at downtown Madison’s Home Place Park, the concert featured Calypso Vision. This group set a pleasing yet upbeat atmosphere to bring people in the audience to a relaxed spirit of good ‘ole rock ’n’ roll.’ On July 27, the Jimmy Henderson Trio will perform. This group plays blues/rock originals and well-known covers. Food trucks will be available at each concert. See page 6A for more details. Here are some fun photos from Thursday’s concert. Photos from Madison Arts Alliance (madisonartsalliance.org).

Continued from page 4B

Reclaiming Conversation,” and “Cyber Safety Overview.” This summer, OLLI has hosted exciting field trips touring antebellum homes in the Twickenham neighborhood, touring the world through wine, and a back-

the society provided. Members brought their famous side dishes and desserts that no one could resist, Overcash said.

“This annual event for the historical society is highly anticipated and always enjoyed,” Overcash said.

After the picnic, most of the group strolled over to Home Place Park on Shorter Street to enjoy the first concert in the “Sounds of Summer” series. Madison Art Alliance sponsors these outdoor concerts.

The society’s mission is to preserve history, restore artifacts and bring the community together for the common good. For more information or to join the MSHPS, email Debbie.overcash@gmail. com or visit historicmadisonstation.com.

stage tour of the Von Braun Center.

OLLI at UAH currently has over eight hundred members but is hoping to surpass one thousand in the next year.

According to Williams, “OLLI

seeks to increase its membership and continue to offer outstanding continuing educational experiences while maintaining and improving its sense of community with its members. We never forget that OLLI

at UAH is first and foremost a family, full of members who enjoy educational opportunities and fellowship.”

Membership is open to those fifty years of age and older and costs $25.00 for a one-year

ServicetoYou isOur FirstConsideration

Providingacomfortableandmodern settingtocelebratethelivesoflovedones.

Familyownedwithfourgenerations helpingMadisonand NorthAlabamafamilies since1919.

membership. Registration for the Aug. 3 luncheon is open until July 20 and costs $25.00 for members and $50.00 for non-members which includes a twelve-month OLLI membership. Register online at uah.edu.

Brokenness

By BECKY MILLER God’s Lemonade Stand

In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I HAVE OVERCOME THE WORLD. John 16:33

“God will not give up on us when we turn our backs on Him and return to sin. He continues to work in us, changing our hearts little by little until we are finally ready to be set free.” This is a Quote from author Francine Rivers, “Redeeming Love” book and motion picture (2022).

Are you hurt by sin or waiting in the wings for a prodigal to return? Does your heart ache so much that you feel it will burst at any moment?

Hurting people hurt people and sometimes don’t really know why they are

The stain of oil, the stain of sin

By DAWN REED

doing it. The past three years, with this pandemic shutting people off from family and friends, have not been easy. It was a test for sure. Counselors’ offices were probably overflowing trying to figure things out.

Whatever it is that has you down, keep talking to God. I know that doesn’t sound too many to be much of a solution. Don’t turn your back on God. It is pretty hard to do life without leaning into Him.

PRAYER: Father, I thank you for family and friends. I don’t take them for granted. I thank you for my Bible and freedom. Help me run towards the cross and away from Satan’s lies and tricks. 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.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths. Romans 15:13 (NIV)

The clanging alerted me that there was a problem. Some sounds are not ever supposed to come out of the dryer. I hurried to the laundry room.

Yanking open the dryer door, I began pulling out my beloved’s dress pants and shirts. (The load was his good stuff for church.) In the still damp pile, I found a small black lid. And then something much worse: dark greasy stains on all of the clothes. “Aww man!” I groaned loudly.

I searched through the load again trying to find the source. The black lid belonged to something.

“Your clothes are all greasy!”

I called to him from the laundry room. “Do you know what this lid goes to?”

He studied the object. Then suddenly remembered. It went to a small bottle of anointing oil.

My beloved is a pastor. A few days before, he and a deacon had gone to visit a very sick friend in

the hospital. He’d used it there. “I must have left it in my pocket,” he confessed sadly. “I’m so sorry!”

The small vial of oil had completely anointed every stitch of his dress clothes.

I grabbed the spray stain remover. Anointing oil was not listed on the back. A liberal coating of Shout was applied to every splotch.

I take Philippians 4:6 quite literally so invited God to get involved.

“LORD, I know You are good and You always work for our good. I ask You to please, if it is Your will, let all this come out.” I reminded Him what it was and why my beloved had even had it in his pocket. Then after a bit, the tainted clothes were soaked overnight in hot water and dishwashing liquid in the kitchen sink. The next day, which was Sunday-the day of new life and new beginnings-I power washed them in the washing machine in hot water right after church. We waited breathlessly until they were dried. Because God is gracious, generous, and kinder than I deserve, the clothes were spotless!

Gaither Vocal Band

October 14 - 6 p.m.

Mark C. Smith Concert Hall

Von Braun Center vonbrauncenter.com

During the spraying and soaking process, I pondered past mistakes-with laundry and life. Sin has stained all of us much worse than a tube of oil in the dryer. Many search for something to wash it away, but there is only one thing that can do the job: Nothing but the Blood of Jesus. In the hymn Jesus Paid it All, Elvina Hall, wrote, “Sin had left a crimson stain, He washed it white as snow.”

Because God is generous, gracious, and kinder than we deserve, when we ask, He forgives us of our sin and remembers them no more (Jeremiah 31:34).

My beloved’s dress clothes will never remind me of their spots/ stains. They have been washed and are clean. When the devil brings up my past sins, I need to remind him that I, too, have been washed clean. No sin is too terrible to be forgiven, no transgression too awful. First John 1:9 reminds us, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

A clean slate is a beautiful thing.

A look at the history of 11 Allen Street

By JOHN P. RANKIN Madison Historian

MADISON - In 1984 the Bibb-Whatley house at 11 Allen Street in Madison was placed on the Alabama Historical Register and the National Historical Register by owners of that time, Phil and Ann Whatley. Current records show that Robert and Ruth Key own the property.

It was in 1998 that the Whatleys opened the home to guests as a “bed and breakfast” establishment under the name “The Bibb House”, built in 1867. That name reflects that the original owner-builder was James Henry Bibb. The house sits on a very large lot for the older Madison historical area properties. It has the distinction of including four fireplaces.

The tax assessor’s website records show that the house was constructed in 1930, but actually James H. Bibb in fact did build it in 1867 after he had purchased in 1866 a large area of land for his family residence. However, it is true that a northern extension of the house was constructed in 1930. The property is located two blocks west of Sullivan Street, in Section 17, at the junction of Palmer Road with Allen Street, on the north side of Palmer Road. It is about one block west of the boundaries of the original historical district of Madison, but it is actually one of the oldest homes within the city limits today.

James Henry Bibb, the original owner, was related to the first two governors of Alabama through common descent from Benjamin Bibb of colonial Virginia in the 1600s. James Bibb died of measles at age 44 in 1870, leaving a widow and seven children. He was born in March of 1826 in Huntsville, but in the few years before his untimely death he was highly significant in the early life of Madison. James H. Bibb was among petitioners who in 1869 requested authorization from the state legislature to change the town name from “Madison Station” to just “Madison”.

He was elected also as a member of the first town council in 1869. In 1866 he had bought from John D. Tanner the 320 acres of land that comprised the north half of Section 17, located on the west side of today’s Sullivan Street and south of Mill Road. However, on January 1 of 1868 Bibb sold part of his land from his Section 17 holdings to William R. John-

ston, who became Madison’s first mayor in 1869.

James Bibb was a partner in a Madison steam gristmill with brothers James and William R. Johnston. Another of the partners in the gristmill was a nearby plantation owner to the south, Richard Wiggins. James Bibb later purchased several other parcels of land in and around the town. For a time, he had a “storehouse” on Main Street adjacent to Sarah Clay’s property that in the later 1900s became known for a time as the Clay House Museum at 16 Main Street. That house was used then to display owner Robin Brewer’s extensive Noritake China collection.

James H. Bibb was the last of ten children born to Methodist preacher James H. Bibb (1778-1826) of Huntsville and his wife Sally Alford. Both parents were born in Amherst County, Virginia. They were married in 1802 and moved to Tennessee. The Rev. James Henry Bibb later in life resided in Huntsville, was admitted to the Methodist Conference in Nashville in 1810. He was an early Methodist minister of this area, preaching at Jordan’s Chapel and Methodist camp gatherings around Huntsville.

Rev. James Bibb in 1823 was an Alabama Commissioner who served with known Madison-area residents David Gray and Charles Betts to yearly rent to the highest bidder Section 16 of Township 4 and Range 2 West, where the town of Madison would later be founded. He also served as Madison County Tax Assessor & Collector from 1824 until his death in 1826 at age 48. The James Bibb of Madison’s history was born five weeks after his father’s death.

When the senior James died in Huntsville, his wife Sally was left with seven minor children in her home. Sally lived for another 42 years as a widow, outliving all but four of her ten children. Sally was born on December 16, 1783, and lived until October 16, 1868, enduring the Civil War times. Sally and her husband are buried in Maple Hill Cemetery in Huntsville, but Madison’s James Bibb is buried with his family in the Dillard-Bibb Cemetery, on Mill Road just a short distance west of Sullivan Street.

Madison’s James H. Bibb married Laura Dillard on February 13, 1855. Laura was only 23 when she died in 1859 after just four years of marriage. She, her husband, and his second wife, Rebecca

Robinson are all buried in same cemetery. The tiny cemetery contains monuments for James, Laura, Laura’s father Joshua Dillard, and Laura’s mother Catharine. Also, there are tombstones for James Edward and William T. Bibb, sons of James and Rebecca. Another marker is for James Bibb Spragins, son of James Robert and Sallie K. Spragins. Sallie Kate Spragins was a daughter of James Bibb by his first wife, Laura Dillard. The cemetery is well preserved now as a park and playground in the Governor’s Estates development. Prior to the construction of the houses around it, the cemetery had become totally overgrown with high briers. That development was begun in the 1960s, and when tombstones with the Bibb name were found underneath the briers, it was assumed that the Bibb burials were for members of the family of Alabama’s first and second governors. However, that was not precisely the case, except for the ties back to Virginia in the 1600s.

In 1870 the Madison census shows that the household headed by Rebecca (Robinson) Bibb, 2nd wife and widow of James Henry Bibb, included Martha Robinson, as were Sarah (“Sallie”)

K. Bibb at age 13 and Robert Spragins, age 23. Sarah Kate Bibb and Robert Spragins married and became the parents of James Bibb Spragins, who was born in 1872, when Sarah was only 15 and Robert was 25. Robert Spragins was not only a son-in-law of Rebecca Bibb, he was also the Administrator of the estate of her husband, James Henry Bibb. In the 1880 census, Spragins was listed as a merchant in Madison.

One of James Henry Bibb’s sisters, Elizabeth Alford Bibb, married first to Stephen, a son of Elijah Hussey, one of the first landowners in the Madison area. The Hussey land was 320 acres located immediately south of today’s Eastview Drive and east of Hughes Road. Elizabeth Bibb Hussey had only one child, Edmund, by Stephen. When Stephen died, Elizabeth married William Parham of Limestone County, who was born in Virginia in 1792. They had two girls -- Mary Ann, who in 1857 married Thomas J. Cain (the father of Madison merchant James Henry Cain), and Elizabeth Cassandra, who in 1860 married Thomas F. Allen. It is possible that this Mr. Allen became the namesake the street where the Bibb House is located.

11 Allen Street in downtown Madison.

James H. Bibb