The Madison Record - Aug. 30, 2023

Chess

Ten years ago, a small group of youngsters gathered at a neighborhood clubhouse to pursue their choice in avocation – chess.

Last week they celebrated that milestone. Page 7A

Madison THE RECORD

Madison Police investigates PNC bank robbery

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – The Madison Police Department was seeking the public’s help in identifying a PNC bank robbery suspect over the weekend.

On Friday evening, a suspect robbed the bank located at 3735 Sullivan Street before the location closed, according to MPD. Madison Police say the incident occurred at 4:49 p.m. and police arrived at 5 p.m. at the scene. Authorities say the suspect walked into the bank and slid the teller a note demanding money. Police say he also had a firearm. The teller put cash in a bag and the suspect then left the scene on foot.

Twelve-year-old “Stargirl” is ranked fifth in the world for powerlifting

By BOB LABBE bob@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON - Twelve-year-old

Jianna Andrews is becoming a worldwide star, thus earning the nickname of “Stargirl” given to her by her personal coach Ryan Kuhlmann of Awakening Strength located on Highway 72 in Madison. Andrews is currently ranked tied for fifth in the world in powerlifting and is just 42 points away from the No. 1 world ranking.

“I want this really bad as I can push myself to make the lifts,” said Jianna.

Standing a mere 4-foot-11 and weighing in at just 87 pounds, this mighty-might athlete has taken the sport of powerlifting by storm in just a year’s time she has either tied or broke state and national records including the deadlift where she lifted 226 pounds, which is nearly three times her body weight. Her other personal marks include 182 pounds in the squat, 88.2 pounds on the bench press and, along with the deadlift, a combined total of 496.12 pounds, which tied the national record. Her squat is a new national record while all four marks are new Ala-

bama state records.

The daughter of Jason and Amanda Andrews and sibling to an older brother and sister, Jianna began powerlifting after seeing her mother do the same as Amanda is the current Alabama state record holder in all four events with-

in the sub-master’s division.

Jianna said, “I just wanted to be with her and seeing what she goes through in workouts and at competitions made me want to get into the sport and I love it. I had my doubts about my talents, but Mom told me

At press time on Monday. Madison Police had not arrested a suspect. We will update this story on www.themadisonrecord.com when an arrest has been made.

Police say the suspect is believed to be a white male between 5-’2” to 5’-5”, 30-50 years of age, medium build. He was seen wearing a mask over his nose and mouth, wearing a blue and white tie-dyed shirt, blue jeans, black shoes, and a “bucket” style hat on.

MPD does not know the direction of travel for the suspect.

For anyone who has information regarding the identity of this individual, contact tellmpd@madisonal.gov or call the Madison Police Department Investigations Division at 256772-5674. Police say there is a $ 5,000.00 reward offered for any information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the suspect.

Jianna Andrews breaks the Alabama state record in the deadlift in powerlifting.

Photo by Barbell Productions

Twelve-year-old Jianna Andrews celebrates another medal-winning performance in powerlifting as she is ranked No. 5 in the world among her youth division. Photo- Barbell Productions See

Photo of the Week

Investigation continues into disturbance at football game

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

HARVEST - Madison County School leaders held a specially called meeting Tuesday to address an incident that occurred during Friday’s football game between Hazel Green and Sparkman.

Madison THE RECORD

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The Madison County School System said a disturbance occurred in the open area within the football stadium causing some people in the crowd to rush to the exits. The game was suspended and did not resume after the first half. Madison County Sheriff’s deputies on the scene say they could not confirm if anyone had a weapon and there did not seem to be any significant injuries in the rush. It’s still unclear what caused the mass exodus.

Sunday evening, the Madison County Schools Facebook page posted the following update:

“Thank you for your patience in giving us time to thoroughly analyze the scope of activities that led to the suspension of Friday night’s contest between Hazel Green High

School and Sparkman High School. It is safe to say that no one expected that type of disruption, and frankly, it is extremely disappointing on many levels. It is also disheartening to read people’s false comments on social media. Without knowing the facts of what happened, this is fear-mongering and has no place in a school or school district environment.

“For our student-athletes and coaches who faced adversity throughout the week preparing for the football game, it is a major letdown not to have the option to finish what they started. We share your disappointment for our parents who make the sacrifices to watch their children compete at high levels. So many were impacted by the unthinkable actions of very few, and this cannot stand.

“We can share what we know as definites as we continue investigating this disruption with the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, Madison County School Resource Officers, and school and district adSee SPARKMAN Page 8A

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High school football is back! That means the whole experience of enjoying a Friday night under the stadium lights, which includes the music from the high school marching bands, is here for the next several weeks. The James Clemens Jets “Sonic Boom” Marching Band is shown above during their first outing this year -- a road trip to Gardendale. They will be at home this Thursday night at the Madison City Stadium for the Jets game against Mountain Brook. See page 3B for our local football coverage.

The S2S student welcoming group at Liberty Middle School was recognized last week by the Madison City Board of Education for winning two national awards from the Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC) this summer in Washington, D.C. They were accompanied by sponsors, LMS Nurse Benita Tunstil and language teacher Anne “Kitty” Mingus, along with Liberty Principal Shannon Brown. S2S students pictured (in no particular order) are: Daegan Chaffin, Kate Miller, Grant Jauken, Addisyn Langford, Dillon Raby, John Allen Howard, Maryann Herndon, Sophie Savant, Leah Jump, Oliver Howard, Lucy Herndon, Garrett Walker. Although military focused, S2S (Student-to-Student) helps all new students. They make it a point to sit with new students at lunch, approach them in class and find other ways to make them feel welcome. Sponsors say this is particularly important in schools where feelings of loneliness and isolation can be hard on their adjustment. Superintendent Dr. Ed Nichols commended the students for their awards and participation in S2S. He reminded them that their interaction with student newcomers can have a lifetime positive effect on them.

Madison Newcomers and Neighbors to meet Sept. 14 at the Hogan Family YMCA

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON - The Madison Newcomers and Neighbors Club, a Womens Social Organization, will meet Thursday, Sept. 14, at the Hogan Family YMCA located at 130 Park Square Lane. The social time begins at 9:30am with the speaker beginning promptly at 10 am.

September’s speaker is Hallie Porter, Development Director of the Land Trust of North Alabama. The Land Trust leads regional and community collaborations that plan, preserve and provide stewardship to all green space in North Alabama.

Current residents as well as newcomers to our community are always welcome to attend our meetings the 2nd Thursday of

each month. We offer informative programs as well as a variety of fun activities which gives you a chance to meet new friends. For further information contact either Martha Heard (256)772-9721 or Lisa Anderson (540)273-3239.

I’m a natural.”

The same can be said for Kuhlmann who noticed the natural skills of the young girl he nicknamed after the DC Comics and TV series Stargirl. From the very first time in the gym growing through workouts five days a week, Jianna caught the attention of almost everyone around as she set new personal best marks in her lifting almost every day as her overall lifts have improved through hard work and making substantial corrections in her techniques. She soon made her way into competitions where she made her mark on stage even in her first meet last November.

She lifts for in the USA Powerlifting (USAPL) and in her first USAPL meet in May she broke all the Alabama state records and thus qualified for the Nationals held Aug. 5 in Scottsdale Ar. At the Nationals, Jianna set the tone for what could be an outstanding future in the sport competing in the female youth division of ages 5-13. In fact, a college coach approached her family and told them a college scholarship was awaiting her should she continue to excel.

“When I make a good lift, it feels so great,” said Jianna. “At the Nationals when I did my record-setting squat lift, I had a big smile and I immediately looked at my mom as she’s always there with support. I pray sometimes when I have doubts in myself. I pray I get the lift and do not get hurt. It’s really up to the Lord.”

Jianna is in the seventh grade and attends Athens Renaissance School, which is a virtual public school based in Limestone County. She also plays travel softball for the 12U Remix where she pitches and plays second base. “We told her she could compete in both sports as she gave up gymnastics to concentrate on her current love for her two athletic endeavors,” said Jason Andrews.

Jianna continues to push herself in the gym and recently completed a leg press at an almost heard of 360 pounds. To look ahead in the sport, a good athlete will push themselves beyond what many think they can’t. Usually inspiration will help carry them to more success. For Jianna, she said her great grandfather told her to never give up and the desire to succeed is always within her.

Jianna added, “It’s a fun sport. It’s an individual sport. It’s you versus you. I know when I step on the platform, it’s just me and the crowd. I mentally prepare for a lift.”

As her nickname indicates, Stargirl stands mightily against any challenges and faces any adversity thrown her way to make a good lift and let the world know she’s ready to be number one.

A complete look at Jianna and Amanda will be available in the October issue of the Madison Record’s monthly magazine Madison Living.

Strong says he was successful in call for HASC Space Command hearing

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

WASHINGTON—

Celebrating community at Huntsville’s Jazz in the Park

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

HUNTSVILLE - World-renowned trumpeter and vocalist Louis Armstrong once said, “If you have to ask what jazz is, you’ll never know.”

Every fall since 2015, Huntsville residents have flocked to Jazz in the Park–Huntsville to experience the magic that Armstrong described so many years ago.

This year’s free September concert series at Big Spring Park will be no different.

Beyond words

Experts say learning to read music is akin to learning a new language –but the sounds and rhythms that make up jazz are something everyone can understand.

“To Americans, jazz is an original genre of music,” said Kenny Anderson, Director of the City’s Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (ODEI), which hosts Jazz in the Park. “It’s a form of music that has been celebrated for many, many years.”

The genre finds its roots in New Orleans in the late 19th century. At that time, musicians were fusing elements of blues, ragtime and even marches to create a wholly unique sound. The genre went international in 1914 with acts like Jelly Roll Morton and Buddy Bolden taking center stage.

Today, jazz can be heard in venues across the globe. However, the sounds heard here in Huntsville are just as powerful as those on the world’s biggest stages.

Celebrating community Anderson said diversity is a key component of making Jazz in the Park successful.

“From a cultural perspective, jazz has the capacity to reach lots of different people,” he said. “You can easily go to jazz concerts like ours and see a diverse group of people who really appreciate the diversity of the instruments and vocalists.”

Anderson says jazz crowds lean older and more mature, but the genre can be enjoyed by everyone. He said jazz breaks barriers and allows listeners to reflect on their individual musical journeys.

It’s what differentiates Jazz in the Park from other concert series.

“What makes Jazz in the Park unique is that you have Grammy award-winning artists performing on stage for free,” Anderson said. “All because of the gratitude of a community that appreciates and understands why it’s important to have access to quality events like this.”

Even if you’re a newcomer to the genre, Jazz in the Park is a chance to connect with community members, learn about ODEI efforts in Hunts-

ville and feel the excitement that comes with welcoming new folks to town.

Building a legacy

The late Bernard Lockhart, founder of Birmingham’s Jazz in the Park, alongside Anderson, brought his gift to Huntsville in 2015.

The first year, Jazz in the Park was one evening with two artists performing to about 800 people. Today, the bar is set higher with four nights of music every Sunday in September.

More than 60 artists have traveled to the Rocket City since the first concert. Some of the high-profile names even reach out to Anderson to perform – and they get a chance to pass along their expertise while they’re here.

Every year, ODEI identifies select area schools to host masterclass sessions with the headlining artists – at no cost to the school system or students.

“These are performers you’d normally only see during a Google search or streaming service,” Anderson said. “These opportunities with the biggest names in jazz offer teachable moments to those who hope to find themselves on stage at Jazz in the Park someday.”

The 2023 Jazz in the Park concert series will be held Sept. 3, 10, 17 and 24 at 5 p.m. at Big Spring Park East.

Redstone Arsenal to host 26th Annual Oktoberfest Sept. 15-17

By STAFF REPORTS

HUNTSVILLE - This year’s Oktoberfest at Redstone Arsenal will take place Sept. 15-17 at the Activity Field on Aerobee Road and is open to the entire North Alabama community. It promises fun for all.

The annual Redstone festival attracts thousands of people each year. Some attend for the Ferris wheel and other carnival rides, others for the live entertainment, which this year will include The King Guys Oktoberfest Brass Band, DJ Slim Robb, DJ Jammin’ Jeff, karaoke, The Pollies (a Muscle Shoals band) and Buck’d Up, a Huntsville-based eclectic band. Always a draw to Oktoberfest is the cuisine, such as grilled brats and

schnitzel plates (German potato salad, sauerkraut, dill pickle spear and Brotchen), pretzels and beer cheese and more. This year’s event will cost $15 for general admission and $25 for admission with unlimited rides. Parking is free.

Proceeds from the Oktoberfest are returned to the Redstone community in the form of improvements to Morale, Welfare and Recreation facilities and recreational offerings. Details on events can be found in future issues of the Redstone Rocket and at redstone.armymwr.com.

Representative Dale W. Strong, released the following statement in response to the House Armed Services Committee’s (HASC) announcement of a hearing to investigate the recent U.S. Space Command headquarters basing decision:

“I wasn’t kidding when I said this is far from over.

I asked Chairman Rogers to hold a hearing, and now it’s time for these leaders to answer questions under oath. The findings of the robust basing process were completely ignored when the fifth best location in Colorado was chosen to host the Space Command headquarters.”

Air Force Secretary, Frank Kendall, Space Command Commander, General James Dickinson, and Chief of Space Operations, General Chance Saltzman have been called to testify before HASC regarding the Space Command basing decision.

On August 3rd, Rep. Strong sent HASC Chair-

man Mike Rogers a letter requesting the committee bring Secretary Kendall and General Dickinson to testify “at the earliest opportunity” regarding the basing decision.

“The way the Biden administration and Department of Defense leadership has handled the Space Command situation is something that should worry every state.

Allowing the Air Force to conduct an expensive and long basing process, only to undermine it when it’s decision time, threatens the credibility of the DOD and sets a dangerous precent for all future military decisions. I’ve certainly got a lot of questions I’m ready to ask.”

The following events are scheduled for The Orion Amphitheater in Huntsville’s MidCity District. Go to www.theorionhuntsville.com for more information.

CASINO NIGHT BENEFITING MERRIMACK HALL September 8 theorionhuntsville.com/event/ casino-night-at-the-orion/ Casino Night will be a fully immersive experience transporting guests into an upscale, high-energy casino setting to play and enjoy for a remarkable cause.

This event will feature various casino-style table games, where guests can donate and play for fabulous prizes. Additionally, guests can enjoy passed hors d’oeuvres, themed cocktails, and drink specials. Proceeds from this event will be donated to Merrimack Hall Performing Arts Center in Huntsville.

MAXWELL with Musiq Soulchild October 7 theorionhuntsville.com/event/ maxwell/ Maxwell comes to Huntsville on October 7 with special guest Musiq Soulchild!

LANA DEL REY September 21 /theorionhuntsville.com/event/ lana-del-rey/ Lana Del Rey will play The Orion on September 21!

US Representative Dale Strong

Dr. Matt Leder, showband leader at Calhoun Community College, plays his trumpet at the 2023 Jazz in the Park announcement earlier this year.

Huntsville Music Month activities kicks off on Friday

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

HUNTSVILLE - Get ready to dance, groove and sing along as the second annual Huntsville Music Month kicks off Sept. 1.

Hosted by the Huntsville Music Office, the monthlong initiative seeks to raise awareness and build excitement around the City’s thriving music culture, encourage collaborations, provide career development resources, and champion Huntsville’s appeal to musicians and fans as a music-friendly city.

Mayor Tommy Battle said Huntsville has come a long way in establishing itself as a destination music city. He said the quality and diversity of live performances at The Orion Amphitheater, Von Braun Center and elsewhere appeal to local music fans as well as those from outside of the city limits.

“People from across the country are traveling here to see their favorite artists on our stages and we’re happy to have them,” he said. “We hope they tell their friends and families about their wonderful experience in Huntsville, Alabama.”

WHAT’S TO COME

While this year’s Huntsville Music Month calendar will feature over 100 events, Music Officer Matt Mandrella is especially excited about Launchpad, a new, free concert series Sept. 1-3 in Big Spring Park.

“We have some really amazing talent lined up to perform, so we’re setting up a big stage in the park and kicking off the month with an explosive threenight run of free shows downtown,” he said. “We’ll also have a lot of fun lighting design elements in place both on stage and throughout the park that we think will make for a really awesome fan experience, too.”

Opening night on Friday, Sept. 1, will feature headliner Deqn Sue, who was featured in the September 2022 issue of Rolling Stone magazine performing at The Orion Amphitheater.

She’ll be joined by Grammy award-winning musician and producer Kelvin Wooten. Other acts set to appear that night are Common Man, Dante’ Pride and the Alabama A&M Maroon and White Marching Band.

On Saturday, Sept. 2, music fans will be treated to the high-energy and soulful sounds of Lamont Landers, electro-funkhop band Element XI and Huntsville’s signature and most beloved blues icon, Microwave Dave.

The third night of music on Sunday, Sept. 3, will be the opening night of Jazz in the Park-Huntsville featuring headliner Jessy J and supporting acts Tr3ple Threat and Erisa Nicole.

The music begins at 5 p.m. each night. Food trucks will have concessions for purchase and alcoholic beverages are permitted if they are in designated purple cups.

“The Huntsville Music Month calendar is jampacked with great concerts and events throughout the month,” Mandrella said. “It’s an exciting time for music in Huntsville, and September is all about shining an even brighter spotlight on all the really exciting things happening here.”

OTHER HUNTSVILLE MUSIC MONTH EVENTS

• Jazz in the Park – 5 p.m., Sept. 3, 10, 17 & 24 at Big Spring Park East: Spearheaded by the City of Huntsville’s Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, this annual community-driven concert series provides music-lovers across generations a free ticket to experience some of modern jazz’s biggest names live on stage. Visit the Jazz in the Park-Huntsville Facebook page for lineups and more information.

• Women in Music Week – Sept. 15-24 at various venues: Due to overwhelming popularity, Huntsville Women in Music Weekend is now Huntsville Women in Music Week. The expanded event will showcase more than 50 women in the music industry over

See MUSIC MONTH Page 8A

Local author’s children’s books deal with causes of bullying and better behavior

By GREGG PARKER gregg@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – After seeing the aftermath of bullying, Alfreda Ragland wants to encourage everyone to show kindness and respect to each other.

“My writing journey began a couple years ago when my now 14-year-old started getting bullied. I turned what I was dealing with as a family into teachable, encouraging, inspiration type books for children,” Ragland said.

“Finding out my daughter was being bullied in school broke my heart. I prayed a lot for guidance on what to do and say to get her out of the depressing state she’d fallen into. I started writing her encouraging notes and leaving them in her schoolbooks to remind her that she’s beautiful, smart and loved,” Ragland said.

Learning that so many children experience bullying caused Ragland to do something more. “I just didn’t know what. God showed me that he had a plan for me. I began writing books of encouragement and self-love to help instill the love of God into readers,” Ragland said.

Currently, she has four self-published books and 12 more waiting to be published.

“We never know what someone else is dealing with, and a kind word or gesture can go a long way.

To promote her message, Ragland has presented several events throughout the community. Her books are in library branches in Triana, Madison and Huntsville.

“I’ve opened an online business,

A&K Kustoms LLC, that carries my books and other themed items,” Ragland said.

“I am the mother of three – Jaycen, 20; Jayden, 19; and Kamarie 14, and a fur baby, Prince, 2,” Ragland said. She is a Madison native

Alfreda Ragland has written a suite of books to deal with bullying and emphasize the positive traits that people can use.

Two of Ragland’s newest books include “Daddy’s Little Princess: The Farm” and “Daddy and Me”(above” She has also published “I am Different and God Love Me” and “Just Be Yourself” (below).

Check out these two great

Plans revealed for the Madison Street Festival, set for Oct.

By GREGG PARKER gregg@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – On Oct. 7, find your niche for thrills, laughter, local musicians, visual artists, craftsmanship and entrepreneurs at Madison Street Festival.

This year marks the festival’s 41st anniversary. Many people define the day as a street party, a shopping venue for one-of-a-kind designs or a homecoming for family and friends.

The MSF Steering Committee has worked “the last eight months with over 40 volunteers. The MSF 501(c)3 organization has been working diligently and passionately behind the scenes to create another magical festival FREE to the community on Oct. 7, opening at 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.,” MSF President Crystal McBrayer said.

The 2023 festival is attracting more participants than ever before.

The MSF PARADE is a not-to-miss tradition for many festivalgoers. The community parade shows off youngsters in sports, music and civic-minded groups. City politicians wave to constituents. First-responders march. Small businesses adver-

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tise their wares and services.

The parade will start on Skate Park Drive at 9 a.m. and proceed down Mill Road and Church, Front and Sullivan streets. Parade units will disperse at Madison Elementary School.

When the parade ends, MSF Opening Ceremonies will commence on the Entertainment Stage on Church Street.

Also on Church Street, SPONSOR ROW will show the businesses who donated funds to MSF. That revenue allows MSF to remain an admission-free event.

CRAFTERS COVE will attract shoppers for handmade accents for home or lawn, along with children’s clothing and accessories. At Church and Maple streets’ intersection, this marketplace offers wreaths, toys, jewelry, upcycled home decor, doggie outfits, candles, handsewn pieces and more.

ARTIST ALLEY off Church Street encompasses a juried art exhibit for outstanding artists from the Tennessee Valley and beyond. Stroll through booths of high-caliber, award-winning original pieces. Madison Arts Alliance will host an interactive art exhibit.

Also in Artist Alley, the STUDENT ART AREA has youth’s creations that show remarkable skills. The brilliant young designers’ artwork promises to impress.

On Front Street, the BUSINESS SHOWCASE assembles for-profit/ non-profit organizations with energetic reps who will explain their products, McBrayer said. See demos of health and insurance needs, pet products, household wares and nature . . . to name a few.

The Madison Street Festival kicks off each year with a parade starting at 9 a.m. down Church Street. It’s one of the favorite activities at the festival.

amusements. Youngsters can make-and-take crafts, play games and watch entertainers. Teenagers can experience interactive stations, easy-to-learn activities and STEM options.

At MIDTOWN MADISON, city leaders and employees will answer questions about Madison’s services. Their booths at Church and Front streets will be stocked with promotional materials.

COMMUNITY SHOWCASE STAGE on Main Street will host performing groups. The audience can enjoy diverse genres, including martial arts, belly dancers, baton twirlers, quartets . . . to name a few.

veterans park on Front Street. Legionnaires will discuss veterans affairs and operate an interactive exhibit. Madison Station Quilters will demonstrate their admirable skills and quality creations at the Round House. Madison Station Historical Preservation Society will explain details about the Round House and Madison’s interesting timeline.

Need directions? Want to charge a cell phone? Visit MSF’s INFORMATION trailer near Animal Trax. Student photographers will document MSF’s sights and sounds.

Sponsoredby:

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Festivalgoers can peruse 31 FOOD vendors, serving comfort food and carnival treats, including barbecue, Greek, cookout plates, tamales, funnel cakes, ice cream, vegan options, popcorn, desserts, coffees and lemonade. “We promise every tummy will leave happy,” McBrayer said.

Off Maple Street, INTERACT ZONE caters to children’s and teens’

At the ENTERTAINMENT STAGE off Church Street, “Put your hands together, stomp your feet, dance or just sit back to live music,” McBrayer said. “This stage will bring some of the best local talents to please crowds throughout the day.”

MADISON CITY COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA will have a booth, and some of its musicians will discuss the group’s wide range of performance pieces.

Madison American Legion, Post 229 will staff the

The free SHUTTLE SERVICE buses from CrossPointe Church and Madison City Schools Stadium are very convenient. Assisted-ride buses also will run. NOTE: The CrossPointe Church shuttle will reroute from 8:45 to 10:00 a.m.

“Our heart as an organization is giving money back to the community with our GRANTS to educational programs,” McBrayer said. To apply, visit madisonstreetfestival. org/grant.

To volunteer, visit madisonstreetfestival.org/volunteers.

The “Pinta”, a Replica of a Portuguese caravel used by Columbus and many early explorers will open as a “floating museum” for dockside educational tours. The ship will be docked starting Sept. 8 at Ditto Landing Marina in Huntsville until her departure on Sept. 18. The general public is invited to step back in time and explore the Pinta for self guided tours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Check out www.ninapinta.org.

Nominations open for the Hall of Fame at Bob Jones High School

By GREGG PARKER gregg@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – Bob Jones

High School has opened the nominations for inductees to the school’s Hall of Fame for 2023.

The school will honor individuals selected for the Hall of Fame in Bob Jones homecoming parade on Oct. 26 at 5 p.m.

A reception for the new members will follow on campus.

Celebrating 10 years of chess in Madison Madison City Chess League

By GREGG PARKER gregg@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – Ten years ago, a small group of youngsters gathered at a neighborhood clubhouse to pursue their choice in avocation – chess.

During its first decade, its new organization – the Madison City Chess League – grew and matured quickly. Players, coaches and supporters recently gathered for the MCCL Tenth Anniversary Celebration Dinner.

The celebration’s venue was the Jackson Center in Huntsville on Aug. 20.

MCCL President Ranae Bartlett founded MCCL in 2013 after volunteering with the Rainbow Elementary School Chess Club. Over the years, the league expanded to campuses of Madison City Schools or MCS, organized 80-plus chess tournaments, conducted summer camps for chess and sponsored Monday Night Chess at Madison Public Library.

Bartlett enjoyed watching Madison students mature, graduate from high school and enroll in college. As players enter their careers, Bartlett is glad she knew them as children, learning to play chess in elementary school.

The celebration’s keynote speaker was Fide Master Mike Klein, also known as Fun Master Mike on ChessKid, a learning platform for children to learn and master chess. Klein interacted

with the admiring chess students, signed autographs and posed with students in a photo booth.

In describing chess, Klein said, “I can think of no other game or sport where you are 100 percent on your own, with no coach, no cheering parent, no caddy and for such a long period of time, where absolutely every decision is critical.”

“MCCL has given tens of thousands of kids their own ability to think analytically and build up strong self-reliance,” Klein said.

“There will be, therefore, millions and billions of better decisions made in their later lives, both large and small.”

Two individuals received awards. Beth Bero received the “Educator of the Year” award. This year, Bero retired as Gifted Specialist at Horizon Elementary School, where she led several innovation initiatives like Space Week.

“When I first started volunteering as a chess parent, I looked to Beth Bero to learn how it was done in Madison. Horizon Elementary was the benchmark that we all strived to meet,” Bartlett said.

The recipient of “Coach of the Year” was Sarah May, who has coached Horizon Elementary Chess Team for the past three years. “Coach Sarah has not only been instrumental in the success of the Horizon Chess Team, but she also has served as our head coach for the All Girls National Chess Championship,” Bartlett

said.

May has played chess since she was a five-year-old. Her entire family played the game, and they competed at home or while traveling across the country. “I not only enjoyed playing chess but also loved getting to make memories with friends and family at chess club and competitions,” May said.

During the celebration, the partygoers took their place at a giant chess set, played one-minute games with Coach Joel Friedman and challenged each other to determine the fastest contestant at chessboard setup. “Students Aaron Chen and Sophia Jerez were the only ones to defeat Coach Joel. Ben Lessmann won the prize of setting up a chess board the fastest,” Bartlett said.

Sponsors included Summit 7 Systems, Presenting Sponsor; Signalink Inc., Keynote Sponsor; Scott and Amy Edwards, Summit 7 Systems and chess parents; Steve and Alice Lessmann, Signalink and chess parents; Project XYZ, Photo Booth Sponsor; House of Staunton, Prize Sponsor; Hexagon, Program Sponsor; Table Sponsors National Space Club, Al Sullivan, STI Electronics, Breland Companies, Johnson Pools and Madison Chamber of Commerce. Systems Products and Solutions or SPS was MCCL’s first and a continuing sponsor of Madison City Chess Championship.

For more information, visit madisonchess.com or Facebook.

Madison City Chess League names

Todd Guthrie as executive director

By GREGG PARKER gregg@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON – Coinciding with its 10-year anniversary, Madison City Chess League or MCCL has hired a new Executive Director, Chess.com Coordinator and Marketing Director.

The MCCL Board of Directors has appointed Todd Guthrie as Executive Director. Guthrie is a U.S.-Chess-certified Senior Tournament Director and National Arbiter. Currently, he serves as Scholastic Vice President for Alabama Chess Federation.

For the last six years, Guthrie has served as Chief Tournament Director for local and state chess tournaments in Alabama. In addition, he has worked as a Floor Tournament Director at the National K-12 and National Elementary championships.

Adam Epling will serve as MCCL’s new Coordinator of Chess.com. The largest chess site in the world, Chess.com is an internet chess server, internet forum and social networking website.

Todd Guthrie

Epling will host tournaments for MCCL on Chess.com and help grow the club online. He also coaches at Midtown Elementary School and is a certified club tournament director.

Nicole Wall is another leader for MCCL in her role as Marketing and Communications Manager. Wall and her growing family live in Madison where they enjoy trying new restaurants, listening to live

Page 8A

For the homecoming football game on Oct. 27, Bob Jones Patriots will face Albertville High School Aggies in Madison City Schools Stadium. Hall of Fame inductees will take the field during halftime for an introduction to the audience. The homecoming dance will be held on Oct. 28.

“The Bob Jones High School Hall of Fame recognizes outstanding alumni who have maintained a high standard of excellence and made a significant contribution in their fields of endeavor,” Bob Jones Assistant Principal Amy Thaxton said. Other eligible people are not alumni but have made a significant contribution to Bob Jones in leadership, service or other areas.

“These individuals serve as role models for current and future Bob Jones students,” Thaxton said.

To qualify, candidates who are alumni must fulfill these requirements:

• Graduated from Bob Jones 10 years ago minimum.

• Achieved significant accomplishments and contributed while a student in scholarship, service, leadership or athletics (or a combination of

these areas).

To qualify, candidates who are service nominees must fulfill these requirements:

• Contributed significantly to Bob Jones, Madison City Schools or the City of Madison (or a combination of these areas).

• Not employed by or affiliated with Bob Jones currently.

A former employee must meet this criteria:

• Worked for Bob Jones for 10 or more years.

OR

• Retired from Bob Jones, deceased or has not worked at Bob Jones for 10 years minimum.

All candidates must satisfy criteria for selection:

• Accomplished or contributed significantly while at post-secondary educational institutions, including earning degrees and mastering fields of study.

AND/OR

• Amassed professional background and work experiences.

AND/OR

• Accomplished and contributed significantly to civic and community involvement.

AND/OR

• Reached other significant accomplishments, including awards, honors, offices held or other recognition.

AND/OR

• Completed significant accomplishments and contributions to the City of Madison, statewide and/or in global work.

Deadline for online nominations is Sept.1. For questions, email Thaxton at athaxton@madisoncity.k12.al.us or visit Bob Jones’ website and click “About Us” and “Hall of Fame.”

The celebration’s keynote speaker, Fide Master Mike Klein, greets attendees at the celebration dinner held last week.

music and spending time with their two rescue pups.

Wall’s stepson enjoys the challenge of chess and is excited to teach the game to his soon-to-be baby brother when he’s old enough, she said. Wall is excited to explore the sport of chess and determine ways in which she can serve the MCCL community.

The Marketing and Communications Manager slot is a part-time job, focused on social media, newsletters and maintaining interaction of donors and members. The marketing director will report to the Executive Director.

In recent activities, MCCL players, families and supporters met at the Jackson Center on Aug. 20 to celebrate MCCL’s 10th anniversary. MCCL President Ranae Bartlett started MCCL in 2013 after volunteering with the Rainbow Elementary

School Chess Club. Fide Master Mike Klein, also known as Fun Master Mike on ChessKid, was the event’s keynote speaker. Klein interacted with the admiring chess students, signed autographs for MCCL members and sat for photos with students in a photo booth.

MCCL honored two individuals with awards for their mentorship and work with school teams.

Beth Bero was named “Educator of the Year” for MCCL. Bero, who recently retired, taught many years at Horizon Elementary School and guided that team to success. Sarah May received the “Coach of the Year” award. May has coached the Horizon Elementary Chess Team for the last three years, along with serving as head coach for Madison girls in the All Girls National Chess Championship. For more information, visit madisonchess.com.

ministrators. There were NO weapons used or shown during the incident. We can also share that there were NO physical altercations or injuries. We also want to share that the incident was caused by individuals who wanted to strike fear in the crowd.

“We will continue to work with our partners to ensure the individuals who instigated the panic will be held accountable to the fullest reach of our abilities. Moving forward, MCSS will also introduce additional security measures at athletic contests and significant gatherings.

“Out of respect for our family, MCSS intentionally refrains from speaking publicly about incidents until we have time to thoroughly investigate incidents and develop a plan to move forward. As such,

Ragland

the Madison County Board of Education has called a special meeting for Tuesday, August 29, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. at the Madison County Board of Education. During this meeting, we will discuss the incident further, the actions leading up to Friday evening, and release how we will ensure the safety of those playing and in attendance moving forward.

“Again, we share your disappointment and frustrations. We look forward to putting this situation behind us and allowing our student-athletes and coaches to compete without worrying about what may happen off the field or court.”

The special meeting will occur after the print deadline for The Madison Record, so we will post updates to this story on www.themadisonrecord.com.

Continued from page 5A

and currently works at Kohler. “I find time to write at night.”

“Since finding out my daughter was bullied, I made it a mission to write books to encourage ALL CHILDREN to love themselves and each other. I also write about special bonds between parents and children,” Ragland said.

“My books are conversational pieces between parents and their children. I decided to introduce custom items themed from each book, like T-shirts, journals, thermals and dog tags to name just a few,” she said.

Ragland’s current books are “I Am Different and God Loves Me,” “Just Be Yourself,” “Daddy’s Little Princess (The Farm)” and “Daddy and Me.” Ragland’s new book “No

Music month

Bullying” will be released in late September.

“I am a self-publisher but received help throughout this process. My books and products can be found on my website alfredaragland.com,” Ragland said.

“I’ve always had a love for children. I worked in childcare for 15 years. Teaching and watching children grow into themselves has brought me so much joy. I also served as a youth advisor for my church’s praise team,” she said.

“I have made it my mission to encourage as many children as I can to love who they are. I’ve appeared on a local television show, ‘Tennessee Valley Living,’ where I became known as ‘the mom who turned bullying into a book,’” she said.

Continued from page 5A

10 days at various venues. The full lineup will be announced soon on the Huntsville Music Month web page.

• Music Biz Roadshow – 5 p.m., Sept. 12 at VBC Mars Music Hall: The Music Business Association’s new Music Biz Roadshow traveling event series will bring elements of the popular annual conference to Huntsville to connect its members with local musicians and music businesses. High-level panels and fireside chats will educate communities on today’s music ecosystem, while cocktail mixers will facilitate new relationships between members of

Grants for existing educational and horticulture projects to be awarded by Master Gardeners

By Master Gardener Suzanne Kirkhuff

MADISON COUNTY - If your nonprofit group or institution has an existing project of this nature and you are needing funding assistance, (such as outdoor classrooms, educational landscapes, crop education, etc.) we would like for you to apply. The grant awards are from $100 to $1000. The deadline to apply is October 15, 2023.

Grant details and application form are online at www.mginfo. org/grants/. MGNA is a nonprofit organization comprising of Certified Master Gardeners who are committed to community education of horticulture in the greater Huntsville/Madison area.

Ragland has completed book readings for Athens Boys and Girls Club and the Community Action Pre-K school in Decatur. She helped to launch Black History Month on Feb. 5 at Oakwood University Church where she was a vendor. On April 1, she participated in the third annual Women’s Expo at the VBC. Ragland is planning a community awesomeness event for mental health on Sept. 16 entitled, “Empowering Minds for Success.” She will release more details soon.

“My goal is to reach as many children as I can, one book at a time. Thank you all for your love and support,” Ragland said.

For booking inquiries, email authoralfredaragland@gmail.com or visit alfredaragland.com.

the industry who may not have met otherwise The event is free to attend but limited to the first 200 people to RSVP.

• Music Industry Career Fair & Community Expo – 12-2 p.m., Sept. 16 at VBC East Hall: The Huntsville Music Office and Arts Huntsville are teaming up again to produce a free music industry-related career and community expo to help connect people to job openings and volunteer opportunities within our music ecosystem.

• Blast Music submissions: Blast Music – the Huntsville-Madison

County Public Library’s music streaming service – is accepting submissions from Tennessee Valley artists. The Blast curator team listens to submissions and decides what music is added to the platform after each round. Those selected will have the option to sign Blast’s license agreement, upload a full album/EP to the streaming platform and receive an honorarium check.

For more information and to see the full Huntsville Music Month calendar, visit huntsvillemusic.com/ musicmonth or the Huntsville Music Office Facebook page.

2023DailyFairActivities

Alltimesaretentativeandsubjecttochangewithoutnotice.

Friday,Sept.15th

2ndAnnualLincolnCountyFairCruise-In

Hostedby:VooDooCustoms.......................................5:00PM

AdultCornholeTournament100%Payout:50/30/20 ....6:00PM

Registrationcutoff-5PMonFriday,Sept.15.NOExceptions.

Saturday,Sept.16th

GateAdmission$22

includesAdmissiontoFair,Rodeo,andArmband ARMBANDDAY,ALLYOUCANRIDE..............................1:00PMuntilclosing MyotonicGoatRegistryStoneBridgeMyotonicShow...9:00AM

MyotonicGoatRegistryLincolnCountyFairShow........1:00PM

Jr.MeatGoatShow.....................................................4:00PM Rodeo.........................................................................7:30PM

CallMikeRobertsontoenter:770-548-2358

Sunday,Sept.17th

GateAdmission-$8

ARMBANDDAY,ALLYOUCANRIDEFOR$20................1:00PM-5:30PM

ARMBANDDAY,ALLYOUCANRIDEFOR$25................1:00PMuntilclosing DairyGoatShow(4-H&FFA-Open)............................9:00AM

StickHorseRaces.......................................................1:00PM

Registration1:00PMinareaoutsideofFairStore

QuarterHorseRaces,PonyRaces&MuleRaces.........1:30PM Rodeo.........................................................................6:00PM

CallMikeRobertsontoenter:770-548-2358

Monday,Sept.18th

GateAdmission-$8

BlackAngusShowmanshipClassandShows..............5:00PM

MarketHogandSwineShow.......................................5:00PM

JuniorMissPageant,Ages11-13Yearsold

FayettevilleLumberStage............................................7:00PM

MissTeenPageant,Ages14-16Yearsold

FayettevilleLumberStage......................ImmediatelyfollowingJuniorMiss

FairestofFairPageant,Ages17-20Yearsold

FayettevilleLumberStage......................ImmediatelyfollowingMissTeen

Non-SanctionedTruck&TractorPull............................7:00PM

Tuesday,Sept.19th

FREEGateAdmission&ParkingInsidetheFairgrounds

SponsoredbyAriensCo.

HONORINGVETERANS,ACTIVEDUTY,LAWENFORCEMENT,FIRSTRESPONDERS, STUDENTS,TEACHERS,SENIORCITIZENSANDCENTURYFARMS

ARMBANDDAY,ALLYOUCANRIDEFOR$15................5:00PM-Closing

CommercialHeifer,Hereford&PolledHerefordShowmanship ClassandShows.........................................................5:00PM

TinyMissPageant,Ages2-4Yearsold

FayettevilleLumberStage............................................6:00PM

LittleMissPageant,Ages5-7Yearsold

FayettevilleLumberStage..........................Immediatelyfollowing TinyMiss-YoungMissPageant,Ages8-10Yearsold FayettevilleLumberStage..........................ImmediatelyfollowingLittleMiss HarnessRaces............................................................7:00PM

Wednesday,Sept.20th

GateAdmission-$8

HarnessRaces............................................................2:00PM

PowerWheelsDerby=CarsPlusSponsorPowerWheelsGiveaway-Power WheelsContestantsOnly!...........................................6:00PM

StockDemolitionDerby...............................................7:00PM

Pro-Wrestling-FayettevilleLumberState.....................7:30PM

Thursday,Sept.21st

GateAdmission-$10

HarnessRaces............................................................2:00PM

LCFSPONSORSCOUPONNIGHT ARMBANDDAY,ALLYOUCANRIDE, $15withcoupon-$20withoutcoupon......................5:00PMuntilclosing Simmental,Simmental%,Shorthorn,ShorthornPlus&OtherBreeds ShowmanshipClassandShows..................................5:00PM MonsterTruckShow....................................................7:00PM

Friday,Sept.22nd

GateAdmission-$12 ARMBANDDAY,ALLYOUCANRIDEFOR$25................3:00PM HarnessRaces............................................................2:00PM

DairyCattleShowmanshipClassandShow.................5:00PM

SanctionedTruck&TractorPull....................................7:00PM

GravelyZeroTurnMowerGiveaway...............................8:00PM DrawingduringTruck&TractorPull.MUSTbepresenttowin.

Saturday,Sept.23rd

GateAdmission-$12 ARMBANDDAY,ALLYOUCANRIDEFOR $20Armband..................................................1:00PM-5:30PM

subjecttochange.......................................................12:30PM

HarnessRaces............................................................1:00PM

SheepShow(4-H,FFA&Open)..................................1:00PM

PowerWheelsDerby-CarsPlusSponsorPowerWheelsGiveawayPowerWheelsContestantsOnly!.................................6:00PM

DemolitionDerby........................................................7:00PM

UtilityTrailerGiveaway-DrawingduringDemolitionDerby. DoNOThavetobepresenttowin...............................8:00PM

NewCarGiveaway-2023ToyotaDrawingduring DemolitionDerby.MUSTbepresenttowin...................9:00PM

High school volleyball season gets underway. Here is what to expect

By BOB LABBE bob@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON - Two veterans, two rookies. That’s what makes up the local head coaching positions of the four local high school volleyball programs as the 2023 season is underway. Nikki Knott is in her fifth season at Madison Academy while Jenny Jarrett begins her second season as head coach at Bob Jones. These two make up the veterans of the action on the volleyball courts while firstyear coaches at James Clemens, Genesis Taylor, and Sparkman, Austin Craddock, come into their campaigns as rookies in

their respective positions.

BOB JONES

The Lady Patriots return all but one of their starters from last year’s squad that came within an eyelash of a Class 7A state title losing to McGill-Toolen 3-1 in the championship match and completing the campaign with a superb 51-7 record.

The 2023 roster is made up of five seniors, seven juniors and two sophomores definitely have the goal of making another run at a state title as the school has won two championships in 2008 and 2013.

“We have focused on staying in the moment and continuing

to work to not take anything for granted as we got to come in as an underdog last year, but this year, we realize everyone will be focusing on exposing our weaknesses, so we don’t want to become complacent,” said Jarrett. “Our five seniors have been stepping up in their leadership roles as we do have great team chemistry and the girls have a lot of fun together.”

The seniors include Eliza Tyrrell (OH, 5-9, Sr.), Abby Harbin (DS, 5-5, Sr.), Rachel Mecklenburg (OPP/S, 5-9, Sr.), Abby Preus (OPP, MH, 5-9, Sr.) and Meg Jarrett (L, 5-8, Sr.). Jarret is the daughter of Coach Jarrett

Genesis Taylor returns to alma mater as head coach of volleyball program

By BOB LABBE bob@themadisonrecord.com

The 2018 graduate of James Clemens was a star player for the Lady Jets and was one of what was called “The Fab Four” of terrific senior players which included Katie Sharp, Brittan Davis, and Bronte Ray along with Taylor. In their three years of varsity play “The Fab Four” won over 125 matches under head coach Amanda Smith. Taylor played the libero

position where in her senior campaign set a school record for most digs in a single season. She was awarded the defensive player of the year award and service award among the team in both 2017 and 2018 and was tagged with the leadership award her senior year, as well. Fast forward to 2023 and Taylor is again on the courts

By CALEB ODOM caleb@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON --- The Bob Jones Volleyball team opened its season on Thursday, August 24 on a positive note with two home victories against Grissom and Huntsville.

The Lady Patriots (2-0) first took down Grissom in straight sets 2-0 (25-12, 25-12) in the early match at Bob Jones High School.

The second match against Huntsville also went the way of the Lady Patriots 2-0 (25-13, 25-22) but they had to battle in the second set to close out the Lady Panthers.

Bob Jones turned to the reliable outside hitter Kennedy Vaughn who scorched the ball into the Huntsville squad for several timely kills throughout the match.

“I knew I didn’t want to go into a third and I just wanted to push and do as much as I can for the team through kills and stuff,” Vaughn said.

The mostly Patriot crowd reached its peak level of cheers when senior outside hitter Rachel Mecklenburg closed out the second set with back-to-back kills to make the court shake with screams of celebration.

“It just kind of sets a tone that we can play as hard as we can play really,” Mecklenburg said.

“And just us working together and figuring out the small things and just keep improving throughout the season.”

Bob Jones ran away with the first set thanks to a sequence of nine points in a row that started when the score was knotted at 6-6.

There was a block that led to points for Bob Jones by Mya Lacey and then a serve by Riley Lovell that hit the top of the net and just died for an ace.

The momentum was building as Mecklenburg collected a kill for point 14.

Point 15 was a Vaughn kill and point 16 was a rippling kill by Anabelle Arnold that took the set into a timeout.

The streak by Bob Jones and the high-level play had the set 16-7 Lady Patriots at a timeout. Kills by Vaughn late in the first set helped salt it away as Bob Jones cheered with glee at the 25-13 score.

The second set was not the waltz that the Lady Patriots had enjoyed a few minutes earlier as Huntsville buckled down and gave Bob Jones a real fight.

Huntsville struck first with two points to lead early on in set two.

Bob Jones stormed back to take the 3-2 lead when Mecklenburg bagged an ace on the

named head coach of the James Clemens volleyball program Genesis Taylor, far right, was one of the “Fab Four” of seniors that led the program in 2017. Her teammates along for the fantastic ride six years ago included, left to right, Katie Sharp, Brittan Davis and Bronte Ray.

Lady Senators soccer team hungry to repeat in the spring

By CALEB ODOM caleb@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON - The Sparkman girls soccer team received its championship rings last Friday night during halftime of the home football game.

The Lady Senators’ head coach Samuel Tidmore felt a great sense of pride come over him for his team during the recognition.

“The fans and the community were really gracious to us during the ceremony,” Tidmore said.

“The community loves this team. It was a big night for the kids and we are really appreciative of the love we get from the school and community.”

Sparkman girls soccer took home

the 7A State Championship back in May with a defeat of Auburn at John Hunt Park in Huntsville.

The fall semester is of course the offseason for the Lady Senators, but the club is busy preparing for the upcoming spring campaign.

Tidmore said the biggest objective for Sparkman girls soccer is to get all of the new kids on the same page as the returning varsity players.

“We have a big senior class this year and it’s important to get the new members of the program integrated into our system and the way we like to play,” Tidmore said.

This will help fill out the depth chart for a team that eyes a repeat at the title.

“We need to work our way back into game shape,” Tidmore said.

“And just work on the situational understanding of the game through film study and repetition. We just want to go through our process, so we are playing our best ball in April and May.”

Earning a championship ring might be a nice perk to some, but for the Sparkman girls, this hardware only ignites them to win more in the future.

“I think our kids are certainly still hungry to win,” Tidmore said.

“These kids are champions for a reason, they hate to lose, and they love to win. They do what it takes at practice, home and in the classroom to prepare themselves to win.”

Rocket City Trash Pandas toil in the final weeks of the season

By CALEB ODOM caleb@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON - The Rocket City Trash Pandas salvaged the second half of last week winning two of the final three games at home against the Birmingham Barons.

As of Monday, the Trash Pandas (23-27) continue to hold onto the third-place position in the Southern League North at 8 1/2 games out of the first.

The Tennessee Smokies (32-19) lead the SLN by five games with the Chattanooga Lookouts (27-24) sitting in the second-place spot as the Birmingham Barons (20-31) bring up the rear at 12 games out of the first place.

August 22: Birmingham 10, Rocket City 4 Tucker Flint’s 2-run home run in the bottom of the ninth inning would not be enough for the Trash Pandas who ran out of outs in the Tuesday

game last week at Toyota Field.

August 23: Birmingham 4, Rocket City 3

As the temperature climbed to 94 degrees on Wednesday, Rocket City was able to make it closer losing by a run.

The clubs traded runs in the fifth inning to be deadlocked at 1-1.

Birmingham took the lead with a 2-run top of the sixth to go up 3-1, but the Trash Pandas scored a run in the bottom of the sixth to cut it down to 3-2.

Another run for the Barons in the top of the eighth pushed the Birmingham advantage to 4-2 late in the game.

The Trash Pandas’s late rally in the bottom of the eighth that yielded just one run ended up falling short.

August 24: Birmingham 5, Rocket City 1

It was more of the same for Rocket City on Thursday as the Trash Pandas were only able to scratch one run

across in the defeat to the Barons.

The lone run came in the bottom of the fourth inning when Mac McCroskey drove in D’Shawn Knowles with an RBI single to left.

August 25: Rocket City 5, Birmingham 4

The Trash Pandas used some fireworks in the bottom of the 10th inning to take down Birmingham in the Friday game.

The Barons were up 4-1 when Rocket City tallied three runs in the bottom of the seventh to square the game at 4-4.

The contest marched into extra innings where it came down to a bases loaded walk by Mac McCroskey that plated Tucker Flint for the walkoff walk.

August 26: Birmingham 6, Rocket City 4 Birmingham took the Saturday affair with three innings that featured two runs in the first, fourth and sixth

The Trash Pandas muddled through the heat with Barons. They will be on the road this week against the Mississippi Braves.

The Sparkman girls soccer team received their championship rings on Friday after winning the 7A state title in the spring.

Photo by Andrew Noles (Noles Nest Photography)

Jets get road victory against Gardendale

By CALEB ODOM caleb@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON - The James Clemens Jets (1-0) were able to topple Gardendale (0-1) on the road 2621 to open the season.

The Jets collected 330 total yards of offense in the victory.

“It was a good win for us,” James Clemens head coach Chad McGehee said.

“It is always good to get the first one under your belt.”

James Clemens quarterback Ty Marsh was 9 of 16 passing the ball for 169 yards with a score.

On the ground, Cam Berry had 13 rushes for 85 yards with a pair of TD’s while running back DJ Williams recorded 14 carries for 82 yards with a touchdown.

One of Marsh’s targets down the field was Ty Doughty who ended up with seven receptions for 147 yards and a score.

“The biggest area of improvement for us needs to be in special teams,” McGehee said.

“We have to have some younger guys step up and be able to play on some of these phases of the game.”

James Clemens enters the second week of the season at home on Thursday against Mountain Brook (0-1) which costs the Jets a day of practice.

“It just means we have to squeeze some situational things we work in into a shorter week,” McGehee said.

“But we are going to do what we do and have been doing since the spring.”

The Birmingham school Mountain Brook Spartans opened the year with a 35-10 defeat at the hands of Vestavia Hills at home last Friday.

MUSCLE SHOALS 48

BOB JONES 14

Bob Jones (0-1) was not match for a Muscle Shoals (1-0) offense that found the end zone on its first seven drives in the Thursday road opener.

It was 41-0 by halftime as the Trojans hung a final touchdown on the Patriots before removing the starters early in the third quarter.

Muscle Shoals running back Jaquess Greene picked up 151 yards on 10 carries including a 98-yard touchdown scamper.

The Patriots were able to get on the board in the second half with a 6-yard touchdown late in the third quarter and another score from the goaline in the fourth quarter.

Bob Jones looks to bounce back on the road against Athens (1-0) this Friday.

Last week, Athens blew out East Limestone 63-14 at the Indians’ place.

High School Football Game of the week

Despite “disruption”, Senators kickoff season with strong win

By CALEB ODOM caleb@themadisonrecord.com

HARVEST - The Sparkman Senators (1-0) shut out Hazel Green (0-1) 31-0 in the football home opener on Friday night.

The two county-rivals were only allowed to play one half before the game was suspended due to a series of disturbances.

See page 1A for full story about the incident. Sparkman thoroughly dominated the only two quarters played in their season kickoff under new head coach Ronnie Watson.

Sparkman senior quarterback Josh Ward was 16 for 22 passing the ball for 215 yards

with three touchdowns.

The Senators gashed the Trojans through the air with chunk plays that led to the trio of end zone trips.

Senior receiver Amaree Jabbar collected six receptions for 107 yards and a pair of scores. Jabber’s longest catch racked up 40 yards in the game which left Hazel Green in the dust.

Sparkman also had contributions from junior wideout Jaiden Scott who hauled in three passes for 61 yards including a 39-yard grab.

While the junior Jonathan Rozier recorded one reception for the Senators, he made it

count for one of Sparkman’s four touchdowns in the blowout.

The ground game was used sparingly by the home team, but that didn’t stop Jayden “Drip” Thomas from picking up a touchdown on a short-yardage play.

While the Sparkman offense was having its way with Hazel Green, the Senator’s defense was busy pitching a shutout.

Clad in their all-black uniforms, the Sparkman defense was led by senior middle linebacker Yves Ponder II who ended up with seven tackles while the sophomore defensive end Jamarion Matthews was a

force in the backfield with two sacks and five total tackles. Matthews also accounted for five quarterback hurries in the victory.

Sparkman’s kicker Christian Burrus was money on all four of his PAT attempts and the senior drilled a 28-yard field goal to hand his team three valuable points.

The Senators are back in action on Friday when they take the road to face Huffman (0-1) in Birmingham. The Huffman Vikings first game of the year didn’t go well as they were blanked by Minor 55-0 at home on Thursday, August 24.

MADISON ACADEMY 42, DESHLER 6

The Mustangs (2-0) mopped the floor with the Deshler Tigers (0-2) in a road victory 42-6.

Madison Academy running backs Ken Cherry and Joshua Williams combined to carry the ball 23 times for a staggering 346 yards with four touchdowns.

The senior Cherry racked up 171 yards with three touchdowns, while his teammate Williams ended up with 193.

On the defensive side of the ball, Cherry collected an interception for Madison Academy and Antonio Rice picked up a fumble for a 36-yard touchdown.

Madison Academy plays host to Randolph (0-1) on Friday.

Randolph School’s opening game was a home loss to West Morgan 41-20 last Friday.

Deshler’s Price Thornton is brought down by Madison Academy’s Joshua Williams.

Jayden “Drip” Thomas proudly trots into the end zone during Friday’s game against Hazel Green. Photo by Andrew Noles (Noles Nest Photography)

Below are some of the scenes in the action during Soarkman’s first game of the season. Photos by Andrew Noles (Noles Nest Photography)

Sparkman senior quarterback Josh Ward was 16 for 22 passing the ball for 215 yards with three touchdowns.

Sparkman junior Jonathan Rozier took his one reception for the Senators into the end zone.

Jaiden Scott hauled in three passes for 61 yards including a 39-yard grab. The Sparkman defense played havoc on Hazel Green’s attempt to move the ball.

Each week our sports writers and photographers will bring you a different local “game of the week”.

Sparkman adds three new head coaches to staff

By BOB LABBE bob@themadisonrecord.com

HARVEST- The halls of Sparkman High are a welcome center for three new additions to the school’s coaching staff as the Senators have added new head coaches in softball, volleyball and wrestling to open the 2023-2024 school year. Here’s a quick look at each of the coaches who arrived at the school with a strong reputation in athletics.

Softball

A 2008 graduate of Sparkman and member of the school’s 2006 State Championship softball team, which defeated Vestavia Hills 4-3 in the deciding title game, Macie Morris returns to the familiar confines of the school located in Harvest. After playing for the Lady Senators, Morris played at both Central Alabama Community College and Auburn where she completed her education. Upon graduating college she had head coach and assistant coaching experience at numerous schools including Grissom and Huntsville Highs in Huntsville, Dresden High and Union City High in Tennessee, Buckhorn and Northridge Middle School.

Morris is married to former professional baseball player Hunter Morris and they have three children ages 13, seven and three. Hunter Morris was a star player at Grissom High before playing at Auburn where he was named the 2010 SEC Player of the Year. After college, he played in the professional ranks in both the Milwaukee Brewers and Pittsburgh Pirates organizations.

Morris replaces Lindsay Vanover who coached the program for two seasons before exiting the position this

summer to take a similar spot at Decatur High. She was named the Class 7A Coach of the Year after her Senators placed third in the state tournament and posted a 37-14 overall season record last school year.

Volleyball

The Sparkman volleyball team was 45-13 last season and lost in the first round of the state playoffs under head coach Chandler Phillips who exited the program this summer, thus opening the position whereas Austin Craddock was named the new head coach.

Craddock arrives with outstanding experience. After graduating from East Limestone High he began playing the sport in the local volleyball league with the Rocket City Volleyball Club and one year in Nashville at the C2 Attack

Huntsville-Madison County Athletic Hall of Fame looking for nominees for 2024 class

By BOB LABBE bob@themadisonrecord.com

HUNTSVILLE- Twen-

ty different sports among 355 members make up the Huntsville-Madison County Athletic Hall of Fame and the local organization welcomes nominations for the Class of 2024. The new class will be inducted in the 31st annual Induction Ceremony scheduled for next April.

Those nominating potential Hall of Fame inductees should provide detailed information on the nominee’s career and can include statistics, old record books, scrapbooks, clippings, etc. All nomination material will not be returned.

The criteria to be eligible for the HMCAHOF is simple. The nominee must:

• Be a current or former resident of Madison County for five continuous years, not counting residency on a military base or college campus • Be a resident of the

county for 10 continuous years if they performed their athletic achievements prior to moving to Madison County

• Be at least 40 years of age at the time of induction

• If a coach or administrator, have a minimum of 30 years of service in athletics to be eligible if they are not retired Nominees could have excelled at the local, state, national or international levels to qualify.

Nominations must be mailed to the HMCAHOF at P.O. Box 566, Huntsville, Ala. 35804. Nominations may also be submitted digitally at www.hmcahof. com, where forms, more information and a gallery of Hall of Fame members may be found.

For additional information, contact Hall of Fame chairman Vann Pettaway, vann.pettaway@gmail. com, or board member Mark McCarter (256-5081621) or markfmccarter@ gmail.com.

Trash pandas

innings.

August 27: Rocket City 9, Birmingham 7

Rocket City was able to take an early lead in the Sunday finale and make it stick thanks to three crucial runs in the bottom of the fifth inning.

Tucker Flint gave the Trash Pandas a swift 3-0 advantage in the bottom of the first with a 3-run bomb over the right field fence.

Rocket City added to its lead with two more runs in the bottom of the second thanks to an RBI single by D’Shawn Knowles and an RBI double by Kyren Paris for a 5-0 score.

The Barons initially cut into the Trash Panda lead

Continued from page 2B

with a solo homer in the top of the third, but two more home runs in the top of the fifth pushed Birmingham ahead 6-5.

Rocket City took the lead for good in the bottom of the fifth when Bryce Teodosio clubbed a 3-run home run that scored Sonny DiChiara and Tyler Payne to make it 8-6 Trash Pandas.

The Trash Pandas are on the road this week against the Mississippi Braves with today’s game slated for 6:35 p.m.

The Thursday and Friday games are also set for 6:35 p.m. while the Saturday and Sunday matchup will be played at 6:05 p.m.

Volleyball Club. His experience on the court has included every level of collegiate athletes, professionals and novices. His coaching career also began after high school with the NASA Volleyball Club and United Volleyball Club. For the past three years, Craddock was with the UAH Women’s Volleyball Team as a student assistant coach. He’ll begin this season with seven returning players on the roster.

He graduated from UAH with a degree in Science of Kinesiology and Exercise Science.

Wrestling

After 13 years among the Sparkman football program and the last eight as head coach of the school’s wrestling program, Ronnie Watson was chosen

as the new head coach of the Senators’ football program, thus leaving an opening in his spot in wrestling.

The school administrators soon announced Dylan Miller as the new head of wrestling. Miller has been involved in wrestling for over 25 years as he and his family have made a mark in the sport in North Alabama since the 1980’s.

He began his coaching career in 2016 in youth programs, and after graduating Athens State University with a degree in Health and Physical Education took the job as head coach at his alma mater, Grissom, where he coached and taught for two years. His coaching-teaching experiences include at age 15 helping with Sunday school classes at his church. This experience enriched his desire to become a teacher and his love for athletics led him to coaching.

Trash Pandas hosting Military Tribute Night on September 16

USA Patriots Softball team to take on Team

AUSA at Toyota Field

By STAFF REPORTS news@themadisonrecord.com

MADISON - For the fourth consecutive year, the Rocket City Trash Pandas will be hosting a Military Tribute Night at Toyota Field. The 2023 Military Tribute Night is scheduled for Saturday, September 16 and will be a tribute to our armed forces along with a softball game.

Team USA Patriots will take on Team AUSA in a softball game as a

fundraiser for the USA Patriots before the evening concludes with a patriotic fireworks display.

“With our area’s connection to the military, the Trash Pandas are honored to bring the Military Tribute Night back to Toyota Field,” Trash Pandas Executive Vice President and General Manager Garrett Fahrmann said. “This night has become an annual tradition as a way to honor those who have served and who are currently serving in the armed forces.”

Tickets cost $10 in advance with the price increasing to $15 on September 16. Gates will open at 5 p.m.

The USA Patriots will be hosting a pre-game meet and greet with an autograph signing on the concourse from 5:15-5:45 p.m. Following a patriotic pre-game display, the game will begin at 6:35 and last seven innings.

In partnership with AUSA, the evening will feature festivities such as a large flag presentation, color guard, the singing of God Bless America during the game, and more.

Following the game, new members of the military will be sworn in during a special on-field ceremony.

This will be the last opportunity for fans to see postgame fireworks at Toyota Field in 2023. Toyota Field concession stands will be open throughout the night with a selection of ballpark favorites, as well as beer, cocktails, and other specialty beverages.

The USA Patriots are a non-profit whose mission is to bring athletic and veteran amputees together to promote the benefits of inclusive sport and therapeutic recreational activities. America’s Amputee Softball Team travels around the country playing able-bodied teams in competitive and exhibition softball games, bringing a unique brand of softball, courage, and inspiration to communities nationwide. The team is composed of competitive, athletic veterans who have lost limbs in combat and non-combat related injuries. For more information, go to www. trashpandasbaseball.com.

Macie Morris, Dylan Miller and Austin Craddock were recently named new head coaches at Sparkman.

and is a UAB commit. Last year she posted 67 aces, 644 digs and 118 assists from her position as libero. Mecklenburg, who committed to Wallace State, posted 75 assists, 173 digs, 51 blocks, 74 aces and 374 kills. Tyrrell from her middle position had 293 kills, 31 aces, 80 blocks and 96 digs a season ago.

Additional outstanding play from a year ago includes juniors Kennedy Vaughn (OH, 5-11, Jr.) who posted 316 digs, 57 blocks, 61 aces and 637 kills as a sophomore and Riley Lovell (S, 5-6, Jr.) who completed the season with 76 kills, 56 aces, 39 blocks, 444 digs and 143 assists.

Jarrett is also looking forward to two new arrivals via moves into the Bob Jones district. Kendall Buckley (OFF/OH, 6-0, So.) is from Arizona and Ashley Fitzgibbons (DS, 5-6, Jr.) arrived from Utah and is a defensive specialist.

Opening the season against two arch-rivals in Huntsville and Grissom is a long tradition and one Jarrett said is a very competitive way to open the season. She added, “It feels as if we have been practicing for a long time, so we’re ready to play. We are excited to get the season started.”

JAMES CLEMENS

The Jets open their newest season with a new coach in Genesis Taylor, a former player herself at James Clemens graduating in 2018. She took over the head coach position this summer after the exit of Shelby-Grace Mays. The Jets are eager to overcome a disappointing 2022 season where they posted a mere 13-30 record.

The newest roster includes five seniors in Addison Delaney, Kayden Gray, Pari Malhotra, Sydney Plant and Kylie Farmer. Two of the key players in jump-starting the squad in 2023 are Gray and junior Jasmine Brantley, both of whom are oncourt leaders. “They are both very talented, extremely competitive and have great work ethic. They are constantly always trying to get extra reps on the court and are my most consistent hitters and are all-around players,” said Taylor, who works full-time as a registered nurse in the medical ICU unit at Huntsville Hospital and is working her schedule around volleyball.

Taylor has coached several club teams around the area and feels confident she has the knowhow and patience to take on the responsibilities as head coach.

“I love the James Clemens spirit

BJ volleyball

third Lady Patriot point.

The schools went back and forth like two racecars side by side on the final straightway.

There was a timeout when the teams were squared up at 13-13.

Huntsville snagged the lead with 17 points, but Kendall Buckley was there for Bob Jones with a key block to tie the set back up.

A kill by Eliza Tyrrell gave the Lady Patriots a brief 19-17 advantage, but Huntsville scratched and clawed its way back to an 18-18 tie.

The second set was tied 19-19, 20-20, 21-21 and then 22-22.

The drama was building as the programs fought for every ball by laying out

and I believe that brings out the best in the players,” added Taylor, 22. “I expect and demand a lot of my players and we have a lot of fun doing those things. We are a strong team and definitely a good group of girls who are very scrappy on the court.”

SPARKMAN

The Lady Senators lost to St. Paul’s 3-0 in the quarterfinals of the State Tournament a year ago and completed the season with a 45-13 record under coach Chandler Phillips. This summer, Phillips exited the program and Sparkman hired Austin Craddock to take over the duties as head coach. With seven players returning from last year’s highly competitive team, Craddock knows he has a solid base for a good team and is looking towards formulating an excellent return to the court for the Senators.

“Our team dynamics were a little chaotic this summer with the multiple changing of the coaching staff, but I’m very excited to be here and create a winning team and program,” said Craddock, who has had extensive coaching experience in the club level, as well as, three years as an assistant at UAH. “We’ve slowly been coming together more and more, and I’m excited to see what we accomplish this season.”

Craddock has assessed his team and indicated two players are currently head and shoulders above the rest going into the 2023 campaign. Jala Blackwell (MB, 6-0, Sr.) has been a huge leader during the pre-season workouts. Craddock added, “She helps keep us focused and has been crushing it in skills work. She will be a huge advantage for our team.” Another senior, Allahna Lucas (Libero, 5-8, Sr.), has been a big force for the Senators. “She has been creating a lot of energy for us and should help our team to be successful. She provides a lot of positive energy for the team.”

MADISON ACADEMY

The Lady Mustangs are young with head coach Nikki Knott having just four seniors among her 12-player roster for 2023, but experience is not an issue as seven players return from a season ago when Madison Academy was 30-22 overall and lost to Alexandria Valley 3-1 in the first round of the Super Regional. That playing time along with playing in various club teams during the off-season enables the squad to be a threat whenev-

Continued from page 1B

and getting vertical.

The maximum effort was there by both sides, but one team had to emerge from the smoldering court.

It was one of those moments that Bob Jones trains for in practice and Lovell’s timely ace pushed her team in front 23-22.

After a timeout at 2322, one girl took the game over to earn the final two points of the set and to win the match.

“It was just back and forth so I was going up and I told myself ‘I’m going to hit this as hard as I could,’” Mecklenburg said.

The senior sent the ball downward with a ferocity that Huntsville could not defend, and the crowd

Taylor Continued from page 1B at James Clemens leading the current team after being head coach just prior to school opening after last year’s coach, Shelby-Grace Mays, chose to exit the program for a job in her hometown of Arab. Last year’s Jets squad posted a 13-30 record.

“The goal of the school was to find a teacher and I was taking over the summer camps after Mays left and the attending camp players begged me to stay as even the parents thought it would be a great idea,” said Taylor, who played college volleyball at Wallace State, Lawson

State and Auburn-Montgomery.

Taylor graduated with a degree in nursing and currently works as a registered nurse in the medical ICU area at Huntsville Hospital where she tackles 12-hour shifts three days a week. “I work the night shift, and I, honestly, plan around my schedule and so far, it’s working out,” added Taylor.

About to celebrate her 23rd birthday on Aug. 31, Taylor is not new to coaching volleyball as she handled similar duties for both United Club and NASA Club Teams. Getting back into

er it hits the court.

“Our seniors really bring a variety of experience and energy to our team as all of our players are hard workers and want to improve their skills and boost the team,” said Knott, in her fifth season as MA’s head coach.

For the third consecutive year, Molly Byrne (Setter, 5-8, Sr.) returns as starting setter and team Co-Captain. She posted 890 assists, 38 aces and s04 digs last season. “She brings back experience as a veteran setter and has grit and determination and has really taken in our younger players as an encourager,” said Knott of her longtime starter. Gabby Ghee (RS, 5-9, Sr.) returns as a RS with 144 kills and 31 blocks to her credit last year. Knott said Ghee had some hard hits and can be a weapon on the right side. Hannah Wallis (DS,5-5, Sr.) scored 90 digs and 11 aces in last year’s cam-

paign, but Knott said, “Hannah has improved her serve receive skills and is dependable on the court when we need a dig or good pass.”

Senior Ryan McBride (RS, 5-10, Sr.), new to the team this season, can put up a wall on the block and brings energy and a spark to this year’s team. Sydney Privett (MB, 5-8, Jr.) returns as middle blocker where last year she had 215 Kills, 38 aces and 23 blocks. Knott said of her, “She brings back experience on the court as she has improved her blocking and is a go-to player on the floor. She is a hard worker and team player.” Isabelle Sutton (OH, 5-9, So.) one of two sophomores on the team played well last season carving out 202 kills, 52 aces and 172 digs. “She has improved her game in the off-season as a powerful threat and has come back strong as an OH with lots of energy on the

court. Two more juniors, Kayla Arnold (OH/R, 5-8, Jr.), who had 59 kills and 16 blocks, and Maile Cooper (S/DS, 5-7, Jr.) plays a dual role as setter and DS. Last season she played at Libero and had 73 aces, 74 assists and 502 digs.

Knott has also been impressed with eighth grader Mary Ceil McClung (OH, 5-10, 8) who is an outside hitter. She has great work ethic, and although she is young, she is a vocal leader on the court.

“We have a tough schedule this season and we know this will challenge us and allow us to put in work to improve as the season progresses to prep for area, super regionals, and a trip back to the State Tournament for the first time in a few years,” said Knott, whose daughter, Olivia, is one three assistant coaches along with Nicky Faught and Alyssa Walker.

the confines of James Clemens was a thrilling moment for her as she said, “I love the James Clemens spirit we have here at this school and I truly believe that, along with my coaching style, brings out the best in the players. I expect and demand a lot of them, much like the guidelines I was under when I played here.”

The 2023 roster includes five seniors- Addison Delaney, Kayden Gray, Pari Malhotra, Sydney Plant and Kylie Farmer. Taylor is looking at her returning starters to lead the

squad which are led by senior Kayden Gray and junior Jasmine Brantley. Taylor said of her two on-court leaders, “They are both very talented, extremely competitive and have great work ethic. They are constantly always trying to get extra reps on the court and are my most consistent hitters and are allaround players.”

“We’re a strong team as we definitely have a good group of girls to represent James Clemens,” added Taylor. “Scrappy would be a good description of this team.”

Genesis Taylor, who works as a registered nurse at Huntsville Hospital, has been named head coach of the James Clemens volleyball program.

Bob Jones libero Meg Jarrett (5) makes a dig during the match against Huntsville on Thursday at Bob Jones High School.

went nuts as Mecklenburg put the match on ice with her two final lightning

bolts that struck the hardwood.

support here,” Bob Jones head coach Jenny Jarrett said. To advertise in The Record, call 256-714-7152

“A lot of friends and family here so it was a fun night.”

The Jets open their newest season with a new coach in Genesis Taylor, a former player herself at James Clemens graduating in 2018.

The Madison Academy volleyball team is prepared for the 2023 season with sights set on making the State Tournament.

Lions not sheep

By BECKY MILLER God’s

Lemonade Stand

The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion.

Proverbs 28:1

Recently I saw a man wearing a shirt that read what my title is today.

What I think of is as fierce as a lion and as meek as a sheep. It could apply to your prayer life.

In scripture, in 1 Peter 5:8 there is a verse saying that Satan is roaming around like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. Many a heartbroken parent yearns for the day their adult child returns to the joy of their salvation.

Perhaps you are wa-

vering in your faith and need to run hard after God. When God is taken off the throne and secular humanism replaces it this is what occurs. Your power is prayer, speaking up in love, guarding your heart, and being alert to the tricks of Satan. He is not your friend.

PRAYER: I want to be used by you Lord to be a mighty prayer warrior. I lift up our nation for a mighty revival. I pray for those whose hearts are hardened and are blinded. Help those I love to guard their hearts and minds. 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.

Church Directory

By DAWN REED

My beloved is a great cook. He stirs up delicious meals on a regular basis. In the kitchen, he is a free spirit adding a dash of this and a pinch of that without measuring a thing. With his Bluetooth speaker connected to his iPhone, he chops, slices, and dices to the loud beat of Fleetwood Mac, Casting Crowns, The Eagles, and many other artists.

In the kitchen, I am not a free spirit. I like a recipe with exact measurements. I like consistency where the dish turns out the same each time.

I’m a pretty good cook but will admit that a few of my creations have had to be thrown in the creek.

Last weekend, my beloved was excited about a pot roast recipe he’d had swirling around in his head. He spoke of tomatoes, new potatoes, and other things. I tried to picture it. His food is almost always tasty, but I’m not always gung-ho on some of his creative ideas. He mixes things I wouldn’t mix.

As he began to stir tomato paste in

a cooker before he put in the roast, I wanted to take away some ingredients and give him suggestions. Tomato paste in a roast? Who would do that? He was adding lots of spices I’d never ever considered. Just before I spoke, I walked away. It wasn’t my recipe. I didn’t need to give him directions. I knew I could trust him; I just couldn’t wrap my mind around his method.

The roast was fabulous. To be honest, though I was skeptical and wanted to tell him what to do, it was better than any roast I have ever made. In my life. And I had leftovers the next day.

When God is cooking something up in our lives, He rarely follows the recipe we would choose. He adds a dash of this unexpected thing and a pinch of that surprising event. We may want to take the utensils from His hands and work in a familiar, measured way. We may want to tell Him exactly what we believe is best.

But…if we can let Him do His work-what HE knows is best, He will create something wonderful in our regular, everyday lives.

In Exodus 16, we read that the

newly-freed Israelites were in the desert and hungry. Let’s say “hangry.”

The LORD saw them and had compassion on them. He had not delivered them from slavery to have them die of starvation. He met their needs in a completely unexpected way. With no local drive-thru or Door Dash available, He rained down bread from heaven. In the sweet way He works, the manna looked like frosted flakes and tasted like wafers made from honey. He provided it daily for 40 years!

Our Heavenly Father uses many ingredients He has already put in place: our personality, our past, our passions, occupation, location, and possessions. When He gently folds them together, He makes something amazing.

In Isaiah 43:18-19, the LORD said, “Don’t dwell on the things of the past. Look, I about to do something new…” Is God cooking up something new in your life? Do you want to take the recipe into your own hands and work in a more comfortable way? Let Him have space to work. He can be trusted.

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College Football Picks of the Week

Alison

James, copy editor

Alison James earned her bachelor’s degree in journalism at Auburn University, graduating in 2012. She began her career in community journalism in Alexander City and Dadeville, followed by a stop in Opelika before landing in north Alabama. She loves sharing the stories – and correcting the grammar of those stories – of the people and places that make north Alabama such a special place.

John Few, contributing writer

John Few has been in the field of newspaper journalism and production for nearly 25 years. John has served as a staff writer for The Demopolis Times, the daily newspaper in West Alabama, and editor for the weekly newspaper the Black Belt Gazette. He was transferred in 2009 to begin his coverage of Madison. In covering the City of Madison the past 10 years, John has reported on several key events, such as construction of the Hogan Family YMCA and James Clemens High School. Over the years, as Madison has grown, John has been there to cover the news that has made Madison home. Together John and his wife, Lori, have seven children, ranging from 15-23 years old.

Bob Labbe, contributing writer

Bob Labbe is a lifelong resident of the Huntsville community. He has been in the local news media for 48 years, a multi-award-winning journalist in television, radio and print media. He is a member of the Huntsville-Madison County Athletic Hall of Fame and has been nominated for both the Alabama Press Association and Alabama Music halls of fame. Bob has hosted a radio program, Reelin’ in The Years, for 29 years on WLRH-FM Public Radio. He has also been a local high school basketball referee for 28 years and was a high school football referee for 15 years. Bob is an avid sports fan and collector of 45 rpm records. He once boxed Muhammad Ali and was the reporter who asked the famed Paul Bear Bryant his last question as coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide.

Gregg Parker, contributing writer

A graduate of Mississippi State University, Gregg Parker relocated to Madison with Intergraph Corporation in 1990 with wife Brenda and son Andy. For 15 years Gregg wrote for “Madison Spirit” and “Limestone Spirit” sections in “The Huntsville Times.” His articles have been published in numerous chamber of commerce publications, “Southern Family Magazine” and “Life on the Water.” Gregg considers it a privilege to document Madison’s coming of age in his hundreds of articles for “The Madison Record” and “Madison Living” magazine. Gregg enjoys spoiling his rescue dachshund, Francis Underwood Parker; binge-watching Netflix series; and visiting Andy and wife Saadia, both physicians, in Nashville, Tenn.

Erin Coggins, contributing writer

Erin Coggins is a scholastic journalism adviser and history teacher at Sparkman High School. She is also a freelance writer and public relations consultant. Her writing muse is World War II war correspondent Ernie Pyle, whom she fell in love with while a student studying communications at the University of Alabama. Erin and her husband Jamie reside in Madison.

Joshua Berry, photographer

Joshua Berry has a degree in biology and works full time as an aquatic instructor for the City of Huntsville. He is also an avid runner, ranging from short to long distances. When he’s not spending time with his wife and daughter, he enjoys trying to capture the perfect moment on his camera. As the owner of Everlong Photography, his advice for beautiful pictures is that nothing looks better than being confident in oneself.

Bob LabbeJohn FewCaleb Odom

Janssen, M.D. SportsMED

Andrew Noles