Madison Living January 2015

January 2015

Our annual wedding section featuring local couplesfeaturing local couplesfeaturing local couplesOur annual wedding section Our annual wedding section featuring local couplesfeaturing local couples

GuideGuideGuideBride

Local businesses provide everything you need for your big day

Bridal Directory

Classic comfort

Smiths enjoy Craftsman bungalow next door to

grandchildren

Sculptures enhance Madison streets, gathering places

Art walk

New construction at Bob Jones keeps school

competitive in modern era

Investing in the future

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features

food

ARTS & CULTUREART WALK

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LET’S EATENDLESS CATERING

IN THE BIZARTISAN OILS

HEALTHHOMETOWN HEALTH

homeHOMECLASSIC COMFORT

WEDDINGS

BRIDAL DIRECTORY

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OUT AND ABOUT

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THINK HEALTHY IN 2015

MANAGEMENTAlan Brown

President & Publisher

EDITORIALKatie McDowell

Editor

Gregg ParkerStaff Writer

Nick SellersStaff Writer

Jen Fouts-DetulleoPhotographer

MARKETINGKim Maracigan

Marketing Consultant

Melanie McClureMarketing Consultant

CUSTOMER SERVICETammy OvermanCustomer Service

PRODUCTIONJamie Dawkins

Design

Layken GibbsDesign

Robyn HolmDesign

Amanda PorterDesign

Madison LivingP.O. Box 859, Madison, AL 35758

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EDUCATIONINVESTING IN THE FUTURE

4 Madison Living

HOME ClassicComfort

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Madison Living 5

WRITTEN BY GREGG L. PARKER PHOTOGRAPHS BY JEN FOUTS-DETULLEO

Downsizing “cold turkey” challenged Lee and Janet Smith, but their intuition led to a Craftsman bungalow on Sturdivant Street with their most precious

belongings next door – their grandchildren. “Downsizing – a dreaded project no one wants –

was not easy,” Janet said. “We thought a lot to how crazy it was going to be to downsize and pros and cons of living next door to family. Somehow, we pulled off downsizing, staging and selling our old house and moved in May 2014.”

The Smiths had to decide which dining furniture to keep, reducing from two dining areas to one. Opting for more casual kitchen furniture, Janet “made it a little dressier” by adding upholstered side chairs and her collection of blue and white dishes.

“My decorating style is ‘country,’ although I

sometimes wonder which ‘country,’” Janet said. They were stationed in England two years with the military, and Janet learned to love the English country but still “leans toward American traditional country.”

“I decorated the house myself using the trial-and-error method,” Janet said. “I can usually tell if something looks wrong and make every effort to make it right.”

“Whatever it is, the older I get – when it comes to shoes and furniture – I try to find something that looks good but it (must) be comfortable,” Janet said.

She likes the look of wingbacks, while the grandchildren like the family room chairs “that can swing around to watch TV.” She found the perfect spot for a secretary desk they bought in England.

A rustic washtub and crock from Lee’s mother’s basement are among their antiques. Their washstand

LEFT: From their front porch, Janet and Lee Smith can hear the carillon at Madison United Methodist Church.

Smiths enjoy ‘downsized’ home next door to grandchildren

6 Madison Living

and iron bed probably sat in servant quarters in an English home.During 26 years in Air Force service, the Smiths moved 14 times, with two

years each in England and Germany. They moved to Madison in 1993 when Lee retired from the military. He accepted a “temporary” job during their daughters’ college years.

However, they grew fond of Madison and stayed. “Our last home on Inwood Trail was perfect for a while but had become too large for the two of us,” Janet said.

They first saw the Sturdivant house in 2008 on the Parade of Homes. “Builder Rusty Rogers had added many customized features including beautiful built-in cabinets. I thought a three-bedroom, 2,600 square-foot house would be perfect for a retired couple. The location in the downtown historical district also was appealing,” Janet said.

Daughter Janell’s family expanded in 2010, and they built a house next door to the home that had interested the Smiths. Janell and Mark Zesinger are parents of Merritt, 11, James, 9, and Natalie, 4-and-a-half.

The Smiths met a builder about constructing a house on the north side of the Zesingers’ house. “Ironically, the very next day a For Sale sign went up in front of ‘our’ house” south of the Zesingers’ home,” Janet said. Soon, the Smiths had a contract.

Now that they’re settled, the Smiths gravitate to their large family/kitchen area. “It keeps us all together and is great for entertaining,” Janet said. Their front porch is conducive for relaxing on summer evenings or “for morning coffee especially if the Methodist church bells are chiming.”

Downsizing worked. “The house is perfect for us as the rooms we actually use are a good size,” Lee said.

“We’re enjoying our new next-door neighbors,” Janet said. “Each of us enjoys their space, but it’s very convenient for watching grandchildren for a few minutes.”

Lee grew up in northern Illinois. Janet is a San Diego, California native. Retired after 17 years at Raytheon Company, Lee now volunteers as a tax preparer and docent at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center.

A seamstress, Janet has created many quilts and is teaching their granddaughter to sew. The Smiths attend Messiah Lutheran Church. Their daughter Elizabeth Williams and husband Adam have two daughters, Peyton, 13, and Addison, 9, and live in Grapevine, Texas.

Madison Living 7

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Sam & Greg’s PizzeriaEnjoy pizza, stay for gelato close to home

Vigorous and rigorous, Zumba class at the YMCA lures an enthusiastic following

Up Beat

Craftsman exterior, sleek interior contrast in Mill Road home

Spartan Stones fi nds business rock solid but competitive after expansion into Madison

Rolling Stones!

Rachel Brown Homes

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Along with location, the charm of Craftsman architecture attracted the Smiths to this particular house. When downsizing, the Smiths reduced two dining areas to one and opted for more casual furniture, ‘dressed up’ by upholstered side chairs. Janet Smith describes her decorating style “’country’ ... although I sometimes wonder which ‘country.’” Janet Smith has made many quilts and is teaching the skill to their granddaughter. Crisp, white linens contrast with the bed’s four posters in this sunshine-drenched bedroom.

Madison Living 9

ARTS &CULTURE

ArtArtwalkSPACES sculptures enhance Madison streets, gathering places

WRITTEN BY GREGG L. PARKER PHOTOGRAPHS BY JEN FOUTS-DETULLEO

Madison Living 9

10 Madison Living

Tubular and interpretative. Larger-than-life realism or iconic symbols. These elements blend along Madison’s segment of the SPACES Sculpture Trail.

In 2012, SPACES expanded into Madison with a partnership among The Arts Council (TAC) of Huntsville, Madison Arts Council (MAC) and the City of Madison. The sculptures are contracted for two years.

During the selection process, elements from each piece caught the attention of MAC President Shrail Heinrich and fellow SPACES committee members Liz Cuneo and Amy May.

All ages can enjoy the accessible, outdoor art. “Step up close and admire the details of each piece,” Heinrich said.

The 2014-2016 SPACES trail will encompass 40-plus works throughout Madison and Huntsville from renowned American sculptors. Brochures, GPS, cell-phone guided tours, an interactive website, periodic tours and educational events promote SPACES, Tim Holcombe said. Holcombe, District 1 City Councilman, serves as council liaison for SPACES.

For 2014, sculptures added in Madison are Contemporary Couple by Brad Morton, Pagoda by Suzi Hendrix, Three Wise and the Weary III by Austin Collins, Winter by Hanna Jubran and A Carpenter’s

Dream by Kevin Vanek. Contemporary Couple is a relationship study,

perhaps parent/child, husband/wife or mutual friends. Pagoda’s myriad of multi-colored stones reflects in the sunshine. These pieces are placed on Main Street’s west end.

Three Wise and the Weary III fits downtown, representative of an ‘eternal flame’ attracting visitors to Main Street festivals in the historic district, Heinrich said. At City Hall, Winter captivates viewers with stainless steel and bronze using literal and figurative images of the season.

MAC also has renewed contracts for three Whisper Bench sculptures and Oak Horizon Gate IV by Jim Gallucci at Dublin Park. In October 2014, Madison gained its first permanent sculpture when Carl Billingsley donated Prism Arc VII, originally at City Hall and now at Madison Elementary School.

Symbolic, A Carpenter’s Dream depicts “rebuilding ... exactly what’s happening downtown. It fits the location perfectly and was a must-have piece for our city,” Heinrich said.

From his law office at 106 Main Street, attorney Matt Balch has a bird’s-eye view of downtown sculptures. “It has been proven time and time again that exposure to art, regardless of the medium, is beneficial to individuals. For those of us who live and

Madison Living 11

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work in Madison, the SPACES trail allows us that exposure without even having to leave our fair city,” Balch said.

“I can’t think of anything more enjoyable than ending a long day by going for a walk with my wife and dog around Dublin Park. Oak Horizon Gate IV greets us. I can shut ‘the gate’ ... no matter what occurred throughout that day, I can leave it behind,” Balch said.

Balch’s personal favorite, A Carpenter’s Dream “is a modern take on an old tool. It’s analogous to the wonderful revitalization we have experienced in the historic downtown area,” Balch said.

Holcombe agrees. “While all Madison sculptures invoke reflection, my favorite is A Carpenter’s Dream since the sculpture is located near the old hardware store. It’s unique and delightful, yet unexpected,” Holcombe said.

The City of Madison provides an annual appropriation that helps underwrite rental fees. MAC covers the balance and insurance costs with annual fundraisers, like Art 4 Paws and its annual membership drive, Heinrich said.

“Throughout Madison, you’ll find sculptures – iconic, whimsical and thought-provoking,” Heinrich said. “Share your photographs and thoughts on each sculpture at Facebook/Madison Arts Council.”

MAC membership is open to anyone interested in supporting fine arts in Madison. Membership fees range from $15 to $50. Visit artsmadison.org and spacessculpturetrail.org.PREVIOUS PAGE: Located on Main Street, Contemporary Couple is a relationship study, perhaps parent/child, husband/wife or mutual friends. FAR LEFT: Three Wise and the Weary III reminded MAC members of an ‘eternal flame’ associated with celebrations, like those festivals and ceremonies held downtown. LEFT: A Carpenter’s Dream by Kevin Van makes a dramatic statement. Current Madison Arts Council President Shrail Hein-rich, at left, Tina Clark, Beth Ridgeway and Amy Goddard May.

12 Madison Living

LET’SEATLET’S EAT

Though Endless Catering is currently thawing out from the holiday season and the activity it brings to owner and Executive Chef Amanda Smith, it is

currently gearing up for the busy wedding season, which is “basically from March – November,” Smith said.

“I’d probably say we do around 60 weddings [per year]; we average about a good three to five monthly,” Smith said, adding the months of May, June and July will sometimes bring up to eight weddings a month for the business.

The business, which was started in April 2011, is located on Old Highway 20 across from Greenbrier

WRITTEN BY NICK SELLERSPHOTOGRAPHS BY STEPHANIE E. JENNINGS

EndlessCatering

Local company provides unlimited options, tasting room for brides-to-be

TOP LEFT: Bread slices in specialty dipping sauces representative of Endless Catering’s unique twists on hors d’oeuvres. TOP RIGHT: An array of food lays out for consumption.

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Restaurant and features a tasting room, which Smith said is a particularly successful guiding point for prospective clients.

“I would say 95 percent do the free tasting,” Smith said. “We probably have about 99 percent success ratio. We want to make sure that we’re the right fit for somebody.”

Endless Catering touts its flexibility on the company’s website, offering fares for “large unique events, such as weddings, birthdays, graduations, office meetings, family reunions, and much more.”

The food options for breakfast, lunch, hors d’oeuvres and signature items are just as the company’s name suggests: endless. Even the basic buffet boasts beef tenderloin, roast beef, pork tenderloin, baked chicken, grilled chicken, pulled chicken and more meat options. The buffet/hors d’oeuvres package, a popular choice for weddings, offers the basic, mid and deluxe

FROM TOP TO BOTTOM: Tasty, delectable sandwiches Executive Chef and Owner Amanda Smith helped prepare. Endless Catering doesn’t leave out the presentation aspect. Endlesss food options are offered by the business.

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ABOVE: Endless Catering lays on the charm with its drink options.

buffet with varying meat, side and beverage options. Smith said weddings are a different beast than

corporate lunches and other small events, which Endless Catering often services.

“Basically it’s just a lot more work,” she said. “Weddings are always pretty much full of service. Definitely you’re under pressure because you want everybody to get what they want and everything to

go off without a hitch.”The Madison-Huntsville-Athens area is the main

concentration for Endless Catering, Smith said, with some business occurring in Decatur.

To request a consultation or for more information on Endless Catering, visit alendlesscatering.com. The business may also be reached at 256-497-5168. It is located at 27035 Old Highway 20 in Madison.

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18 Madison Living

Bridal Guide

Nathan and I met in 2006, our sophomore year at Bob Jones High School. After graduating from Bob Jones, Nathan moved to South Carolina for three years.

When he moved back to Madison, we reconnected and it didn’t take long before we realized we were meant to be together forever.

Nathan proposed in April, and we had the opportunity to have our wedding in the same year. With decisive planning and keeping everything simple, we planned our wedding in five months.

We picked Guntersville State Park Lodge as our

wedding destination! After taking the tour and seeing the natural beauty of the lake and woodlands, I booked the venue for our special day! Sept. 13, 2014 was by far the best day of our lives! The planning was made very easy by the lodge staff. Our ceremony was held on the terrace overlooking Guntersville Lake followed by the reception in the Goldenrod room. They catered a Southern BBQ buffet with pecan pie for dessert. Family and friends stayed at the lodge or rented cabins.

My vendors were absolutely amazing! We used Clay Stevenson as our DJ; Sweet Thing Bakery for

WRITTEN BY CASEY OVERMAN HANDPHOTOGRAPHS BY SET SAIL PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER STILWELL AND AMANDA POWELL PHOTOGRAPHY

Casey Overmanand Nathan Hand

ABOVE: Above: Nathan and Casey Overman look out over Lake Guntersville after exchanging nuptials. RIGHT: A tender moment.

Madison Living 19 Madison Living 19

Bridal Guide

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Bridal Guide

our cakes; Jennifer Stillwell of Set Sail Photography; Amanda Powell Photography; Kerry Mari, make-up artist; Heather Messervy, hair stylist; Brent Morgan and Joe Radcliffe, videography; wedding dress from Town and Country of Madison and my amazing mother-in-law, Nora Hand, for all the flower arrangements, bouquets and boutonnieres. Pastor Bill Young of Madison Bible Church officiated the ceremony.

A great time was had by all! Our guests commented on the meaningful details and perfect simplicity of our special day. I wouldn’t change a thing!

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT A delectable lineup from Sweet Thing Pastry. A token of love. Flowers arranged by the groom’s mother. Casey poses before the ceremony. A scenic look after the wedding service.


Bridal Guide

We met as prospective students at Indiana University’s Master of Public Affairs program. On Experience Day, our eyes met

across the atrium. He thought, “Whoa. She’s out of my league,” while I thought, “He could use a friend.” We learned more about each other than the program discussing literature, spirituality, and life.

Two difficult years of grad school later, with master’s degrees in hand, we both moved to Charlotte, North Carolina to continue our journey together.

After three years of dating, we loved going out to the movies for date nights. Our favorite theater has a photo booth we enjoyed. Since we were early, he asked me to come in the booth for a photo shoot. Between takes, he had cue cards that popped the question and

WRITTEN BY MOLLY MCPHERSON NAYLORPHOTOGRAPHS BY AMY BOSTON PHOTOGRAPHY

ABOVE: The sun shines on Molly and Jeff Naylor on their wedding day.

Molly McPhersonand Jeff Naylor


Bridal Guide


Bridal Guide

the ring in his pocket. He proposed, I said yes, and we began the task of planning our wedding.

I’m a traditional Southern belle, born and raised in Madison. I’m close to my church family, and from adopted grandmothers in my mom’s Sunday School class to close family friends in church choir, I knew I wanted to share my wedding with my home church. We developed our wedding like a traditional church service, complete with Scripture, hymns, and sermon. We focused on 1 John 4:9, “We love because He first loved us.” We wanted a simple, spiritual, and sweet ceremony. Our outdoor reception at Creekside Plantation was the perfect blend of Southern charm and rustic roots. We had dancing under twinkle lights in the gazebo and romantic strolls in the gardens.

By including family members from Madison to Missouri, friends from D.C. to South Dakota, and local landmarks like the plantation, we were able to sweat it out on July 12, 2014. We feel blessed through these first few months together, and we look forward to celebrating the future, focusing on faith and family.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Molly, clutching a flower bunch, poses with Jeff. The newlyweds entertain attendees at the reception at Creekside Plantation. The then-untouched wedding cake. Molly and Jeff in classic pose of embrace. A bagpiper offers a unique touch to the post-wedding reception. Molly’s exquisite dress sits waiting to be used.

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Bridal Guide

Madison Living 27

Holiday Gift Guide

Madison Living 27

Bridal Guide

“Andy and I were high school sweethearts” ... that wouldn’t exactly be right. Many parts of our relationship couldn’t be considered

“traditional.” In 2001, Andy and I met while I was home during

summer break at Virginia Tech. He was still at Bob Jones High School. Although separated by miles and (four) years of life, we were blessed to meet through my younger brother Hamzah. He and Andy were, and remain, best friends.

Hamzah soon suspected my growing relationship with Andy and was somewhat apprehensive. Despite the odds, we forged a relationship -- Andy in Alabama and I in Virginia. Furthermore, Andy enrolled at the University of Alabama at Birmingham

for undergraduate study and later medical school. My career path landed me in faraway Philadelphia,

Pennsylvania to attend podiatry school at Temple University. Luckily, I matched for my residency program in Montgomery, just two hours from Andy. Two years later, he matched for internal medicine in Montgomery.

Our fortunes finally aligned; we grew our relationship that distance had complicated. In 2013, we moved to Charlotte, North Carolina so Andy could begin his three-year residency in physical medicine and rehabilitation at Carolinas Medical Center. I work for Trident Mobile Clinical Services providing foot care to nursing home patients in South Carolina.

After Andy proposed, we knew we wanted our

Saadia Whatleyand Andy Parker

WRITTEN BY SAADIA WHATLEY PARKERPHOTOGRAPHS BY JERINA MAC PHOTOGRAPHY

LEFT: Saadia Whatley and Andy Parker were married at Mansion on Forsyth Park in Savannah, Georgia on August 2, 2014. ABOVE: Saadia’s bridesmaids and Andy’s groomsmen gather under the Spanish moss in Forsyth Park.


Bridal Guide

wedding in Savannah, Georgia. After a 2011 visit, we fell in love with Savannah’s history, incredible beauty, architecture and vibrant culture. We chose Mansion on Forsyth Park as our venue. Like Savannah, it’s totally unique, historic and beautiful. The city and venue completely fit our personalities and interests.

Having a destination wedding was a challenge but we were overjoyed. We had friends and family from as far as Canada, New York, Miami, Philadelphia, Boston, Missouri, Texas, Mississippi, and, of course, Alabama.

Our Savannah wedding was more an experience and vacation, rather than just a few-hours event. We’re very happy with life and look forward to what the future brings.

Photographs by Jerina Mac Photography, Savannah-based destination photographer. Visit www.jerinamacphotography.com.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT The elegant venue for the Whatley-Parker wedding and reception, Mansion on Forsyth Park was expanded into a 125-room hotel from a Victorian Romanesque mansion. Andy Parker, center, leads his groomsmen through Forsyth Park in Savannah. A friendship over 13 years culminated in the wedding for Drs. Saadia Khan Whatley and Andrew Lamberth Parker. They live in Charlotte, North Carolina. Andy sneaks a kiss from Saadia in historic Forsyth Park across from their wedding venue, Mansion on Forsyth Park.


Bridal Directory

Madison Town and Country matches a bride’s personality and

vision with the perfect dress to make her wedding day the most special as possible.

Centrally located at 211 Hughes Road, the salon has served greater Madison since 1987, when a Huntsville business expanded. The staff realizes each bride is unique and deserves an intimate experience.

The full-service bridal salon offers complimentary, in-house alterations for the bride and mother-of-the-bride’s gowns, along with steaming for portraits and wedding day.

An excellent testament to the shop’s dependability, brides from the 1980s (who are now mothers) are returning to

Madison Town and Country with their daughters today to find their gowns. The shop has been making wedding dreams come true for decades.

The salon is excited to announce new lines for Spring 2015. Mikaella from Paloma Blanca designs, along with dresses created by Badgley Mischka, will be available. These are excellent additions to the salon’s established lines.

In addition, the groom and the gentlemen in his party can find a handsome tuxedo at Madison Town and Country, which provides rental service through Jim’s Formal Wear.

Store hours are Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. To schedule your bridal showing, give the ladies at Madison Town and Country a call.

Madison Town and CountryA bride’s vision in immaculate dressing

Madison Town and Country: 211 Hughes Road, 256-772-8938, [email protected], madisontownandcountry.com


Bridal Directory

Touring southern Italy with native Angela Rice, guests are immersed in the country’s culture, centuries-old vistas and

garden-to-table cuisine, minus exhausting crowds and lines.

Rice’s personalized business focuses on Italy’s Amalfi Coast, where she lives six month yearly. Her tours of 6-10 people allow a home-away-from-home, family-friendly environment.

Hooked on Italy tours travel by luxury vans especially licensed to access historical

centers and traffic restricted areas, so you are where you want to be, unlike rental cars or large buses, which need to be parked outside the city centers, forcing you to walk much longer distances.

A private yacht will sail along the Amalfi coast at a carefree pace. “Imagine staging your wedding at an old villa on the island of Capri,” Rice said.

The stay on the Amalfi Coast includes a visit to Naples and Ravello. The tour offers Cucina Italiana (cooking class) and limoncello making in Sorrento. Guests visit

Mount Vesuvius vineyards where Romans produced Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio (Tears of Christ) wine centuries ago and sample Buffalo Mozzarella at a farming estate.

Guests lodge at the luxurious five-star Grant Hotel Excelsior Vittoria and spa, graced by a 19-acre garden of lemon trees, wisteria and bougainvillea. “You get to know the people, culture, food, wine, sights -- what Italy is all about,” Rice said.

Rice books tours the first half of June and resumes in September and October to avoid summer heat and crowds.

Hooked On Italy ToursExperiencing authentic Italy in private leisure

Hooked on Italy Tours: 412-320-3381, [email protected], hookedonitaly.com.


Bridal Directory

Black Tie Limo offers advance planning and coordination for perfect, stylish transportation to ‘the big event.’

“We give exceptional customer service,” Ian Kinner said. “We work with people before, during and after an event.” Huntsville area clients depend on Black Tie Limo for quality transportation services provided in a timely, professional manner in clean and well-maintained vehicles. You can do the same. Whether it’s a birthday party, prom, airport pickup or your wedding day, Black Tie will

make it special.Black Tie Limo offers a variety of vehicles

to accommodate all occasions. For smaller groups, airport service and VIP service, they offer a black Cadillac Escalade. Exclusively in North Alabama, their sleek silver-gray Mercedes van offers superior amenities and luxury features, such as plush leather captain’s chairs, full-height cabin that allows passengers to stand inside, two 30-inch high-definition displays and much more. This high-class limo is perfect for VIPs, weddings, corporate transport ... anyone with discriminating taste.

They offer the traditional stretch Lincoln Town Car – a favorite for weddings – and a 14-passenger stretch Ford Excursion, which is ideal for larger groups, such as bridesmaid and groomsmen parties, corporate outings, birthday parties and “Girls Night Out.”

Limos are stocked with bottled water and ice. Depending on guests’ requests, Black Tie can stock beverages for the evening.

Black Tie Limo’s advanced route optimization system pre-calculates the most efficient route for guest pick-up, reducing time and expenses.

Black Tie LimoAttention to all details

Black Tie Limo: P.O. Box 2213, Huntsville, AL 35804. 256-919-6001, email: [email protected], blacktielimohsv.com

32 Madison Living

IN THE BIZ

32 Madison Living

IN THE IN THE BIZBIZ

IN THE BIZ

Madison Living 33

Bridal parties celebrating the 2015 wedding season will be seeking oil power, predicted Tina King Morgan.

“They walk in and they say ‘Hey, I’m going to a shower’ or I’ll have a bride walk in and say, ‘Hey, I need eight bridal gifts for my shower. Here’s my budget.’”

As co-owner of King’s Olive Oil in Madison, Morgan said the business sees robust spikes in sales around the beginning of the year as customers try to turn over a healthy new dietary leaf, and around popular gift-giving seasons near Christmas and in the springtime when demand picks up for wedding-

related presents. “They’ll say, ‘I’m going to a bridal tea and I need

a gift’ and ‘She likes to bake’ or ‘He likes to grill,’” Morgan continued.

Kings aims its pitch into a narrow, premium niche market, selling gourmet olive oils and vinegars. Its walls are lined with shiny silver “fustis,” stainless steel containers for oil and vinegar, each ready to offer samplings. Customers can sip from tiny plastic cups or use bits of bread for dipping.

“Depending on the time of the year, we may have oils from everywhere from Spain and Italy to Australia, Portugal,” declared co-owner T.C. Morgan.

WRITTEN BY CHARLES MOLINEAUXPHOTOGRAPHS BY JEN FOUTS-DETULLEO

LEFT: Quick inspiration? To better exploit its oils and vinegars, King’s adds a few recipes into the mix, including ideas for healthy chicken dinners, pastas, even chocolate cake.

Artisan oilsBrides, holiday shoppers and world travelers bring brisk business to King’s Olive Oil

34 Madison Living

The store, located in the Village Shoppes of Madison on County Line Road, opened in July. It is the Morgan family’s second after solidifying a successful business at their first location in Gadsden. T.C. Morgan called the Madison location a logical one, where a cosmopolitan customer base could provide brisk demand for higher end, albeit more expensive, products like King’s haute end oils. “There’s more foodies out there than anybody could ever think,” he said. “It’s like a whole different section to their selves.”

“We had one lady in whose daughter lives in Pittsburgh,” said store clerk Leslie Parker. “She was saying that she had to go there to get her olive oil and vinegar because once she got it from a gourmet store like this, she didn’t want to buy it at the grocery store anymore, because of the difference in taste, and you get more information here.”

“In Madison, a lot of people have lived abroad. That’s helped us,” said Tina Morgan. “They are familiar with true extra virgin olive oil. They are familiar with true balsamic vinegar. They’re looking for the taste they know from places like Italy, from South Africa.”

King’s also broadens its gourmet-themed offerings with a spread of spices, pastas, herb flavored seas salt, savory grilling rubs, even soaps, to assemble their gift baskets. Tina estimated gifts made up about 25

percent of the store’s business, although gifts often become mere starting points for an enthusiastic shopping splurge. “Most people will come in to buy gifts for that hard-to-buy-for person and then they say, ‘I need some of this,’” she chuckled. And then they end up buying themselves three or four bottles.

The Morgans also play up the health benefits of their oils and vinegars. Research has shown olive oils contain high levels of monounsaturated fats, believed to help lower cholesterol, and both olive oil and vinegar are considered sources of cancer-fighting antioxidant polyphenols. Customers shopping for health benefits have extra cause to value King’s attention to the age and pedigree of its oils, as opposed to going to the supermarket a few doors down, T.C. said. “(University of California, Davis) did a study that you can Google,” he said. “It showed that if you don’t find the actual press date and a chemical analysis on your oil, it could be closer to lamp oil than extra virgin olive oil.”

By Tina’s reckoning, customers have agreed. “About 75 percent of our business is repeat business,” she exclaimed. “I’d say the feedback is positive. We were laughing a couple of Saturdays ago. Every single person that came in brought back a bottle to refill. We love it.”

Charles Molineaux is an anchor and investigative reporter with WAFF 48 News.

LEFT: Morgan and Tina King Morgan at their shop in the Village Shoppes of Madison on County Line Road. “Are we in the right place? I certainly think so,” said Tina. TOP RIGHT: Besides its olive oil and vinegar staples, King’s seeks to tempt aspiring chefs with mixes, herbs, spices for gourmet dinners or assembly into baskets for gift giving. They sell pasta and pesto sauces. BOTTOM RIGHT: The Morgans keep their olive oils safe in “fustis,” stainless steel containers intended to protect the oil from light and maintain freshness. Even so, they recommend customers enjoy their oils within a few months of purchase to ensure the best taste and health benefits.

Madison Living 35

FAR LEFT: King’s Olive Oil offers more opportunities to juice up its oils with a panoply of spices, herbs and rubs to satisfy widespread desire for new flavors. LEFT: King’s offers an assortment of gift basket staples in addition to oils. BELOW: Yes, soap. A quick scan down the ingredients list of Seven Springs Soap, sold in the Madison shop (actually from North Carolina), reveals the exotic appeal of Kings’ Olive oil, combined with such worldly ingredients as “Dead Sea salt.”

Hours of Operation

Mon: ClosedTue-Wed: 4:00 pm - 11:00 pmThurs-Sat: 4:00 pm - MidnightSun: 10:30 am - 8:00 pm

3310 Memorial Parkway SW • Huntsville, AL 35801 • 256-469-3005www.theoriginalpublichouse.com

36 Madison Living

HEALTH

The heart of Madison has added a new medical treatment option with the addition of Urgent Care of Madison just north of Interstate-565 at 3751

Sullivan St. After hiding out near Redstone Arsenal for the

better part of its existence, the practice has occupied a former bank building near historic downtown Madison.

“There’s more traffic here and visibility in the south

side of Madison,” said Dr. Mamoun Najjar, who visits the clinic on Wednesdays as a pulmonologist and sleep specialist. Najjar spends the rest of his professional time at the Sleep & Pulmonary Care Center.

Madison Hospital’s Emergency Center, a 10-minute drive north from the facility offers competition for Urgent Care. There aren’t many conditions that Urgent Care doesn’t treat, however.

“I can’t really think of any constraints treatment-

WRITTEN BY NICK SELLERSPHOTOGRAPHS BY JEN FOUTS-DETULLEO

Hometown HealthUrgent Care welcomes variety of patients

After the holidays, get back to healthier ways

Celebrate the new year and

Join for only $15(Includes all joining fees and January dues)

(256) 265-WELLLimited time offer: Ends Jan. 15, 2015

Join at any of the Wellness Center locations.

New memberships only.

madisonALhospital.org/wellnessfacebook.com/WellnessCtrABOVE: Julia Betts, CRNP,

with Dr. Mahmoud Najjar.

Madison Living 37

After the holidays, get back to healthier ways

Celebrate the new year and

Join for only $15(Includes all joining fees and January dues)

(256) 265-WELLLimited time offer: Ends Jan. 15, 2015

Join at any of the Wellness Center locations.

New memberships only.

madisonALhospital.org/wellnessfacebook.com/WellnessCtr

Madison Living 39

wise,” Najjar said.Urgent Care’s website names conditions such as

headaches and general illnesses all the way to minor fractures, back injuries and sprains as ailments in the clinic’s medicinal wheelhouse.

Also offered at Urgent Care are EKGs, X-rays and sports physicals.

Most major insurance providers are accepted at the clinic, as well as Medicare. Dr. Najjar also notes the co-pays are “far more economic” than required by many emergency rooms.

With the increased visibility and attention Urgent Care anticipates to receive with its new location, the clinic very well might be looking for a new home in due time.

“We’re in a growth core area, so hopefully we’ll be expanding sometime in the future,” Dr. Najjar said.

Urgent Care’s hours are not 24/7; they resemble that of a typical working day. The clinic opens at 8:30 a.m. Monday – Friday and stays open until 5:30 p.m. on Mondays and Tuesdays. On Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays Urgent Care closes at 6 p.m.

Weekend hours are much the same; the facility opens at 10 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays and closes at 6 p.m. on Saturdays and 5 p.m on Sundays. No appointments are necessary to be seen at the clinic.

“We’re here for the patients,” Dr. Najjar said. “We make sure their needs are met in a timely way.”

More information can be found at urgentcareofmadison.com or by calling 256-772-4211.

TOP LEFT: Urgent Care of Madison’s recognizable sign on Sullivan Street. BOTTOM LEFT: Jada Wooten, RPSGT, greets clients with a smile on her face. ABOVE: Urgent Care’s staff reviews paperwork for a patient.

40 Madison Living

HEALTH

The very best time to commit to healthy living is right now – although it’s a common January pilgrimage for many back to the

gyms after a season of indulgence. Some health seekers truly need to improve their physical well-being, but knowing how to start and not having the money to do so can seem like insurmountable obstacles.

Terry Bigger retired from a busy, fulfilling career as a professional chef when she was required to go on disability due to severe

osteoarthritis and diabetes. Her husband died soon after. Having lost so much, she began to feel depressed and withdrawn.

Terry had heard that exercise could help manage her health problems, and not wanting to go on medications, she made up her mind to contact the YMCA, even though she knew that a membership was beyond her means.

To her surprise, the Y provided her with a scholarship.

Today, Terry swims laps in the pool and is devoted to water aerobics. YMCA Personal

Trainer Hope Feder set up circuit training for her, and a spin on the stationary bikes completes Terry’s fitness plan.

“Without the Y, I would not be able to live my life,” Terry, 59, said. “I would be depressed and in a wheelchair.”

Now Terry is 40 pounds lighter, has made many new friends and says she can’t put a price on the mental health benefits that she receives as a member of the Y.

“The more I move,” Terry said, “the better I feel.”

Think healthy

WRITTEN BY MARY ANNE SWANSTROM PHOTOGRAPH CONTRIBUTED

Improve your physical and mental health with a YMCA membership

ABOVE: Paula Smith, Hogan Family YMCA Water Aerobics Instructor, leads a class in the indoor pool.

in 2015

Madison Living 41

Anyone who drives past Bob Jones can tell it is a construction zone from all of the contractor

trucks and equipment.The work will modernize BJHS

and bring it more on par with the expectations of new century learning spaces in our community.

A great deal of the construction is internal: technology improvements, energy efficient lighting and HVAC systems, new floors and paint, gym and auditorium improvements.

I am excited to report that one of the most visible features in addition to the new main lobby and administrative offices is now essentially completed. That is the new concourse connecting the east and west wings. This concourse will dramatically improve student traffic flow and provide new soft seating areas where students can

relax and collaborate.In a bygone era, schools were

designed to segregate the school into quiet and not-so-quiet zones. This is easily seen by the placement of the cafeteria and library on the opposite ends of most schools built before this millennium.

We have learned that marriage of the media center and lunchroom

transforms the school into real world application. The connector will marry the polar opposite ends of Bob Jones and give students more options in using their free time, whether it is reading, using their computer or visiting and collaborating with others.

It seems like only yesterday we were beginning the BJHS work, preparing the new Pre-K Center and sprucing up our other schools. The next focus will be to resume floor-to-ceiling classroom renovations that

include LED lighting and 70-inch touch pad screens for digital instruction.

Once basketball season ends, work will move from the classrooms to widespread gym and auditorium improvements, along with positive changes to the lunchroom.

Progress will soon be made to our oldest campus – Madison Elementary: a $2 million project that includes major drainage work and a complete replacement of the heating and air conditioning system.

The Board and I certainly feel that the strengths of our district include our ability to keep growth positive by reinvesting in our schools and staying abreast of an ever-changing curriculum at all levels. This willingness to be innovators and embrace change is what keeps Madison City Schools on the cutting edge of global education. Dr. Dee O. Fowler is Superintendent of Education for Madison City Schools.

EDUCATION

Dr. Dee Fowler

New construction at Bob Jones keeps school competitiveInvesting in the future

42 Madison Living

Madison Christmas Historic Home Tour

Downtown Madison offered a historic tour of some of the city’s oldest homes decorated for the holiday season Dec. 6.

1. Pursuaded Music Ministry from Little Shiloh Primitive Baptist Church entertains tour attendees at the Madison Gazebo with a capella holiday music

2. Erin Andrewjeski

3. From left, Barbara Roberts and Rosemary Gregg

4. Cindy Stinson with Kim Willingham

5. Sandra Whitworth and Carolyn White

6. Susie Averitt

7. Sheila Levenhagen with DeeDee Kovacs

8. Ellis Chatterton stops by to see his childhood home.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY NICK SELLERS 2

3

4

6

6

87

1

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Madison Living 43

9. Sandra Missildine

10. Raegan Masterson

11. Sonya Prescott greets guests.

12. Billie and Susan Goodson

13. Marge Jordan, at left, with Nancy Sturdivant

11 13

9 10

12

44 Madison Living

Christmas Lantern Parade

Children parade down Main Street for Christmas lantern parade Nov. 22. The event was sponsored by the Madison Arts Council.

1. The Madison City Youth Orchestra gets event goers in the Christmas spirit.

2. Event goers wait for the lighting of the trees Saturday night.

3. Parade marchers sit for a spell.

4. The band plays a rendition of “Jolly Old St. Nicholas.”

5. Hannah and Jesse Beavers take a moment after the Christmas Lantern Parade.

6. Madison children make their way down Main Street with their homemade lanterns.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY JEN FOUTS-DETULLEO 2

3

5

1

4

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46 Madison Living

Christmas Lantern Parade

Children parade down Main Street for Christmas lantern parade Nov. 22. The event was sponsored by the Madison Arts Council.

1. Strike up the band! The Madison City Youth Orchestra entertains the crowd.

2. The lanterns arrive at the at the new section of Main Street near Sullivan Street.

3. Jesse Beavers all decked out in holiday garb.

4. More tunes performed by the Madison City Youth Orchestra.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY JEN FOUTS-DETULLEO

2 3

4

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Madison Living 47

Drivers: OTR Needed. Home Weekends, Great Pay & Qualitiy Equpiment. Class A CDL, Clean MVR. 1yr Exp Req. Health, Dental, RX, 401k. / Jay: 256-432-3944Mon-Fr 8a-5p

Company Drivers and Owner OperatorsHome at least once a wk. Exc benefits, pay. Must have Class A CDL w Hazmat & Tanker endorsements, 2 yrs OTR exp, good safety record. 800-338-2717

JOBS IN ALABAMA!! AIDT assists employers throughout AL by identifying qualified applicants by recruitment, screening & training services. Visit www.aidt.edu/jobs for latest jobs & training!

Caregivers & Nurses ALWAYS THERE IN-HOME CARE Immediate need, Flexible hours, Benefits available. Call for more information 256-539-1400 www.alwaysthereinc.com

ANN’S ALTERATIONS600 Limestone Street, Suite #6Hartselle, AL / 256-773-4213

5” Seamless Gutters$0.72 /sq ft(includes downspouts)Blue River Gutterswww.bluerivergutters.com256-303-3729

102 Gin Oak Ct. MadisonFormally Target Automotive 3,841 SFB2 Community Commercial District 2.30 acres. Call Bonnie Rawlinson 256-348-4520

Piano Tuning / Repair, Refinishing, Moving & Storage Trained by The School for the Blind. Buddy Gray Music. 205-822-0482 or 800-593-2462

CARRY TRANSIT Decatur, Alabama Now hiring DRIVERS * Good Pay * Excellent Benefits & Home Time * 18 Months OTR exp. * Class A CDL with Tanker

Endorsement. Apply on Line@ CarryTransit.com

Cracker Barrel Decatur Hiring servers and dishwashers. Nights & weekends. Apply in person: 407 Beltline Rd SW Decatur, AL 35601

Looking for a home? Need help with financing?Call your neighbors down the street at Davis Realty. We can help you get a great rate!Call Willodean 256-762-5671Davis Realty & Assoc. Inc.115 N. Jackson Ave., Russellville, AL / 256-332-9920

Need MIG Welders! Must pass criminal and drug screen. 256-751-5092. Apply in person:1901 John D Long Dr, Hartselle, AL 35640

DEPENDABLE DOZER & DIRT256-332-4854

Fireco Under New Mgmt MGRS/ASST MGRS/ PT& FT. Sales & Clerical Needed. Positive Attitude & Grateful Personality Req. No Exp Needed. Call Josh 256-261-1373 Wkly Pay Plus Benefits

Franklin Homes inRussellville, Alabama is currently taking applications for anExperienced Service Technician with a clean driving record. Excellent benefits available.Please apply in person at 10655 Hwy 43, Russellville Alabama or send your resume to [email protected].

Kubota L3940 HST 4x4 w/ 871 hrs, 41HP, QA Kubota Loader & Bucket: $17,700. New 5’ Titan Bush Hog w/ Slip Clutch: $975. The Hollow 300 Fertilizer Spreader: $400 / 256-565-8695 (no txt)

HOME FOR SALE Financing Available (wac)Low Down Payments Russellville, Falkville,& Belle Mina Call Matt 1-855-847-6808

Come Home to Holiday Plaza Apartments (Behind Foodland) Equal Housing Opportunity 256-332-2960

Are you a people person?Put your cheerful, encouraging demeanor to work as a Home Instead CAREGiver. Our non-medical companionship and home-helper service supports seniors to live safely and independently in their homes. Join our team!Home Instead Senior CareCall Today 256-883-3080

TIRED OF WORKING FOR SOMEONE ELSE? BE YOUR OWN BOSS!James R. Smith Trucking of Cullman, AL is currently seeking Owner -Operators. Benefits incl: Daily Settlements; Direct Deposit or Express Cash; 100% Of Fuel Surcharge, Stop & Drop Pay; Discounts on Fuel, Cell Phones & Tires; Pre-Pass Furnished; Exc. Home/Family Time & A Payroll Deducted Truck Purchase Plan. TransFlo Contact Greg Quick at 256.338.5168 or 800.841.9642

Hickory Heights Lots.4 - 1.2 acres $32,00-$52,000Call 256-773-9554

JONES OUTDOOR SERVICES Tree Care Specialist since 1987 Call 256-773-4013

KDC Properties, Inc.256-355-9090P.O. Box 987Decatur, AL 35602kdcpropertiesinc.comJ. Wesley Cain, AL #286; TN #6499

HOME WEEKENDS $1,000 sign on bonus.Regional flatbed. Exc. pay & benefits. Owner/operatorswelcome. 800-554-5661 Ext 331 tlxtransport.jobs

Marshall Concrete Driveways, Sidewalks, Patios, Slabs.Also Pressure Washing. Free Estimates

Licensed & Insured256-227-9118

AUTOBODY TECHMust have experience in bumper to bumper repairs. (256)837-7466

We Buy ATVsMotorcycles & Utility VehiclesMotorsports Superstore888-880-2277Hamilton, AL

SPRING CLEAN-UP Need a Dumpster? Call 205-893-7223

For Sale or LeaseTotally remodeled older home in Madison,Monrovia, & Harvest4bd/2 full bathsImmed avail. Super clean $95,000 Owner Fininancing Avail.Sale info 256-797-0196Lease info 256-508-6418

Smith MotorsTwo locations onHwy 31, DecaturLot #1 256-350-9938Lot #2 256-350-9937smithmotorsautosales.com

SURVEILLANCE CAMERA MONITORED 24 HOURS A DAY STORAGE BUILDINGS For Rent, All Sizes. Russellville, AL. We Accept Credit Cards. Call Jerry 256-332-9253 or 256-412-5392 Mon-Fri. 8am-5pm, Sat. 8am-12pm

Steel Building Bargains Allocated Discounts We do deals 30x40, 50x60, 100x100 and more Total Construction and Blueprints Available gosteelbuildings.com Source #18X 251-241-4250

Supreme Beverage Co is looking for delivery drivers with valid Class A driver’s license, clear MVR, DOT cert, ability to repetitively lift, pull and push 50+ lbs. Apply @supremebeverage.com

TED MILLSHeating & A/CService & Change out$65 Spring ServiceFree Estimates256-412-5408

The Lilly Company. Now Hiring IC and Electrical Techs for Forklift Dealership. No [email protected]

EFP, INC NOW HIRINGLocal Haul Truck Drivers3 yrs exp & CDL required. Full time/Part time/Weekends. For application or more info call Nicole Johns334-687-6000 X 18

FREE Recycling. We come to you. Computers, toner, software, printers, etc. Call 615-442-8697. www.tmwitherspoon.com

Town Hill Mini Storage160 UnitsVacanciesAll Sizes256-332-9928

Insurance InspectorPT independent contractor needed for commercial Loss Control services in central and northern AL areas. Exp req’d. Email resume [email protected]

High quality painting int & ext, sheet rock repair &installation, siding repair &installation, carpentry incl. No height too steep!! FREE Pressure Washing For details call 256-746-0646

MANUFACTURED HOMES MOBILE HOMES with land. Ready to move in. Owner financing with approved credit. 3 bdrm., 2 bath. No renters.1-205-289-8899VMFhomes.com

Become a Dental Asst. in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website capstonedentalassisting.com or call (205) 561-8118 and get your career started!

ClassifiedsTo place an ad in Madison Living, call 256.772.6677

B A N K I N G . I N S U R A N C E . I N V E S T M E N T S

Branch Banking and Trust Company is a Member FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender. Loans are subject to credit approval. Only deposit products are FDIC insured.

© 2014, Branch Banking and Trust Company. All rights reserved.

At BB&T, our local lenders keep us close to our clients. And our commitment to outstanding

service helps make buying a home a little easier. So when you’re looking to buy, build,

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than 140 years of fi nancial knowledge – helping thousands of clients open doors of their

own. Let’s get started today. BBT.com/Mortgage

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8857 Madison Blvd.256-774-7513

Building futures. One home at a time. Building futures. One home at a time. Building futures. One home at a time.

Madison Living January 2015

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