june madison living
DESCRIPTION
madison living, magazineTRANSCRIPT
Madison Living 1
June 2012
Steadman home
Madison Spine & Neuro opens
Cristina Lynn
finds her music niche
a historic landmark
Madison Living 3
4 Madison Living
MADISON LIVING
MANAGEMENTErica Slone
EDITORIALMichael Hansberry
Gregg L. ParkerBrittney JonesAnna Durrett
MARKETINGApril Strickland
Myra Sawyer
OFFICE MANAGERLaura Samples
PRODUCTIONDaniel HolmesJamie Sparacino
Sarah BrewerAmy Baldis
Cristen Smith
Madison LivingP.O. Box 859 Madison, AL 35758
Advertising Inquiries256.772.6677
Madison Living is published monthly by Madison Publications, LLC
Cover photograph by Cristen Smith
In this edition of Madison Living, we feature our biannual Bride Guide Magazine with heart-warming engagement stories, along with long-lasting couple stories that have weathered the test of time.
We’ll also take you inside the beautiful home of Madison’s own Jeanne Steadman for a revealing look inside one of our city’s historic homes.
Our Arts & Culture section takes a look at singing sensation Cristina Lynn. We’ll also give you an extreme tour of Insanity Skate Park, while our Health Section delves into the inner-workings of Madison Spine and Neuro Center. We’ll explore the chic summer trends of the year in our Fashions Section courtesy of Crossroads Boutique.
Embrace the summer fun and enjoy!
Michael Hansberry
Madison Living 5
features
food
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ARTS & CULTURECRISTINA LYNNFINDS HER NICHE IN MUSIC
TO YOUR HEALTHSPINE AND NEURO CENTERHEALING NORTH ALABAMA
17
22 FOODPHILLY CHEESESTEAKSAN AMERICAN TRADITION
IN THE BIZINSANITY SKATE PARK: A SAFE ENVIRONMENT FOR TEENS
OUT & ABOUTOUTINGS AROUND TOWN
homeHOMECAIN-STEADMAN HOUSE: A CHAPTER IN HISTORY
style
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10 FASHIONSUMMER CHIC
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BRIDE GUIDESPECIAL SECTION
ARTS & CULTURE
She describes her sound as “totally country but with its own Cristina Lynn feel6 Madison Living
Madison Living 7
WRITTEN BY GREGG L. PARKERPHOTOGRAPHS BY CRISTEN SMITH
Cristina Lynn finds her
niche in music
8 Madison Living
Everyone needs a little nudge to reach a goal.
For vocal artist Cristina Lynn, the push came from
husband Kevin Worcester. “We’re going to be old and gray, rocking on a front porch and looking back wondering, ‘What if?’” Kevin told her.
“Here we are ... chasing this crazy dream and loving every minute,” Lynn said.
Lynn started writing songs in 2004 and soon wanted to perform. She describes her sound as “totally country but with its own Cristina Lynn feel.” People compare her to Jewel, Nora Jones, Alison Krauss, Patsy Cline, Sheryl Crow and Jennifer Nettles.
“But my passion is performing original songs I’ve created by myself and with other songwriters,” Lynn said.
While producing her second CD, From all Sides, Lynn finally felt in control of her career.
“I drove that whole (production) process,” she said. “I’m a force to be reckoned with in the ‘indie’ (independent) world.”
While both in the country genre, What’s Next with guitarist David Sheppherd was an acoustic CD, while From All Sides is her tribute to soldiers and their families. The CD has two of Lynn’s original songs, one co-authored with Kevin Worcester and Chuck Ruttenberg and a cover tune “Midnight Special” for her love of Creedence Clearwater Revival.
“My music reaches everybody. Women listen ... and men. That’s the humbling thing about what I’m doing -- I’m reaching people,” Lynn said.
Any doubt about her music vanished when he picked up her son Ethan from school when he was in second grade. (He’s now 11 and a fifth-grader in Madison City Schools.) “Mom, I wrote a biography. I wrote about you. Mom, the world has got to hear you -- the way you speak to people through your music,” Ethan told his mother.
“Some days when I sit and think, What am I doing?, I think about what Ethan said,” Lynn said.
In 2012, Lynn will return to Nashville’s Bluebird Cafe, the Whistlestop Weekend in Huntsville, Madison Gazebo concerts
Lynn said music has always been a part of her life.
Madison Living 9
and as a regular at The Ledges. This summer, she will sing at several weddings and introduce her original composition for the ceremony.
As her career progresses, any work will have her “stamp on it. I have to be free to be me. The sky’s the limit but it’s gotta look like Cristina Lynn,” she said.
“Since I’m independent and driving the boat, I’m able to be a mom and wife and maintain friendships,” Lynn said. “I’ve been blessed to meet so many people. I’ve found my niche.”
Later in 2012, Lynn will release a new CD that’s “grassy and true to Cristina Lynn roots.” Her music is available on What’s Next on iTunes, her website and music stores.
Lynn responds personally to email and letters. “I like to be the person that someone contacts,” she said.
Cristina Lynn: P.O. Box 913, Madison, AL 35758. [email protected], cristinalynn.com, cristinalynnblog.com, Facebook/Cristina Lynn and Twitter.
Lynn is well known in North Alabama. She also
performs at weddings.
10 Madison Living
FASHION Summerchic
CLOTHES: CROSSROADS BOUTIQUEPHOTOGRAPHS: SARAH BREWER /CLICK PHOTO DESIGNSHAIR: MOD SQUAD SALONMAKE UP: A CINDERELLA EXPERIENCE BY ALINA CAVE
Madison Living 11
Crossroads has one location in Huntsville and one in Madison.
Madison location: Sunday-9 a.m.-6 p.m.;
Mon-Thu-9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Fri-Sat-9 a.m.-8 p.m.
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ABOVE: Pura Vida Dress - Peacock Pattern - $48.99RIGHT: Ya Los Angles Dress - $34.99Tan Belt - $30.00Frye Carson Boot in Tan - $348.00
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TOP: Lucky Brand Jeans - $100.00; Allman Brother Tshirt - $19.99; Sanuk - Natural Hemp - $62.00LEFT: Citizen of Humanity Jeans - $167.00; Cream Top by Synergy - $44.99; Big Buddha Bag - $90.00ABOVE RIGHT: Canvas TOMS in Natural - $44.00
14 Madison Living
Funky People Floral Dress - $24.99Hobo Clutch - in Bluebell - $128.00Crochet Toms in Natural - $58.00
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Funky People Floral Dress - $24.99 and
Funky People Floral Dress - $24.99 with
Crochet Toms in Natural - $58.00.
16 Madison Living
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HOME
WRITTEN BY GREGG L. PARKERPHOTOGRAPHS BY SARAH BREWER
Cain-Steadman House: A chapter in history
Built circa 1880, the original house was
a dog trot, with nine rooms flanking a
central breezeway.
18 Madison Living
Stan and Jeanne Steadman applied ingenuity and hard work to restore the Cain-Steadman House at 18 Arnett Street to the
style of the late 1800s. If Southern history is a book, the Steadmans have written their own chapter.
Built circa 1880, the original house was a dog trot, with nine rooms flanking a central breezeway. The third owner, Jim Cain, bought the house in 1905 and added a second floor.
Reflecting Colonial Revival architecture, the house’s front porch has original Tuscan columns and banisters. Weather permitting, they often relax in their sunroom and screen porch.
After numerous additions, the house has 16 rooms with about 4,000 square feet.
“I love deep, saturated colors -- no pastels for me!” Jeanne said. “Every room is a different color, although I do try to make sure that the colors for adjacent rooms flow together so it is not jarring.” They replaced ornate draperies with wood blinds and cotton curtains.
Large windows keep the rooms light and breezy. “I like to let the sun in,” Jeanne said.
The house accommodated Madison’s first indoor bathroom, which was on the back porch.
“Stan and I were antique dealers in the early 1990s, so I collected some unique pieces along the way,” she said. “Perhaps the oldest item is a clock made in Connecticut in 1834. It still keeps excellent time.”
Their grandchildren enjoy playing on a rope bed. The saying, Sleep tight, originated when homeowners had to tighten the ropes periodically, Jeanne said.
“Perhaps the most interesting item is a poster painted on canvas from World War I that used to hang in the Madison Post Office when my son’s great-great grandmother was post mistress,” Jeanne said.
The Steadmans also treasure memorabilia from Stan’s restaurant in Huntsville, which his parents owned for many years. Jeanne cherishes a set of Spode/Copeland china from Stan’s mother, while Stan has great sentiment for his father’s roll-top desk.
The property’s most intriguing features are the outbuildings, revealing life from the 1880s. The Steadmans reclaimed both the land and buildings to their former stature.
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LEFT: Jeanne Steadman lives in the house with her husband, Stan. The home is located at 18 Arnett Street in the historic district in Madison.ABOVE: Large windows keep the rooms light and breezy.
The well house is adjacent to a natural spring that once cooled perishable food and now is a goldfish pond. The smokehouse used to slow-roast meats now serves as a potting shed / entertainment center.
Stan stabilized the roof and supports of a dilapidated shed, converting it to a whimsical playhouse. Their grandchildren play hide-and-seek in a maze carved from overgrown privet. The “goat barn” once housed farm animals.
“It has the feel of an old yard. I didn’t want to lose that and make it modern in any way,” she said.
Jeanne’s gardens feature heirloom species. Hydrangeas, day lilies, camellias, hollyhocks and herbs lend an “old-timey” atmosphere. Planted almost a century ago, peonies bloom with splendor.
Area garden clubs have presented blue ribbons for Jeanne’s orange-yellow ‘Playboy’ and coral roses, Nikko blue hydrangea, purple Siberian iris, pink clematis Contessa de Bouchard and pink climbing roses.
“I’m passionate about historic preservation, not just in Madison but all over this country,” she said. “For too long, we tore down our past without regard for what we were losing.”
The Steadmans are avid antique collectors.
20 Madison Living
ABOVE: The property’s most intriguing features are the outbuildings, revealing life from the 1880s.BELOW: After numerous additions, the house has 16 rooms with about 4,000 square feet.
Madison Living 21
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22 Madison Living
LET’S EAT
Owner David Shannon said customers can
expect a “warm and friendly” atmosphere.
WRITTEN BY: MICHAEL HANSBERRYPHOTOGRAPHS: CRISTEN SMITH
Philly cheesesteaks an American tradition
Madison Living 23
Just like Apple Pie, baseball and the Super Bowl, the Philly cheesesteak is an American Tradition.
David Shannon is responsible for bringing that tradition to Madison.
Shannon is the franchise owner of Philly Connection, located off Sullivan Street.
“I’ve always loved being around food, and I started finding that I had a passion for that,” Shannon said.
He began working at Philly Connection in 1988 as a part-time driver. He purchased a franchise in 1991. In 2001, he sold the franchise and relocated to Orlando, Fla. He moved to Madison in October 2010 and opened the Sullivan Street location.
Shannon said in his 25 years of experience with Philly Connection he has learned the ins and outs of customers’ wants and needs.
“Customers can expect a very friendly, warm and personal atmosphere,” he said. We only provide excellent service and the highest quality of food.”
“One of the main things is all the food in here is prepared when it’s ordered… right
ABOVE: Philly Connection was reopened in 2011.
Below: Philly Connection franchise owner David
Shannon.
24 Madison Living
in front of customers’ eyes,” he said. “In my experience, you provide an atmosphere that makes customers want to come back.”
The restaurant’s menu includes The Original—a hot grilled, extra lean steak topped with onion and white American cheese.
A customer favorite, chicken cheesesteak includes savory chicken breast strips, grilled onion and white American cheese.
Philly Connection also sells chicken wings and chicken tenders, specialty subs and salads.
“It’s an American icon… a real unique product in the way it’s prepared,” he said. “Our cheeseteaks are put on a fresh bakery roll, and grilled fresh with melted cheese. They all have their own flavor.”
Shannon said the biggest challenge he faces is getting the word out about Philly
Connection. He said it has been closed for so long, people don’t know it’s open for business.
“People put it out of sight out of mind. Our neighbors didn’t even know we were open, but it’s getting to the level we need it to be at.”
Philly Connection is open Monday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Madison Living 25
Philly Cheesesteak Lean steak
MushroomsGrilled onion
White American cheese
26 Madison Living
Cheese chickenGrilled chickenOnionsWhite American Cheese
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Pepperoni Pizza SteakLean steak
Grilled onionPepperoni
Pizza sauce Oregano
28 Madison Living
madisonALhospital.orgfacebook.com/MadisonHospitalFan
Moms-to-be can rest easyMadison Hospital now offers maternity services. Our patient and family centered maternity
program features rooms overlooking the Healing Garden, board-certified obstetricians
and neonatologists, experienced and caring nurses and state-of-the-art facilities. So when
it’s time for your baby to be born, your community hospital is ready to deliver. Ask your
physician about delivering at Madison Hospital or visit madisonALhospital.org for more
information.
A member of the Huntsville Hospital Health System
Madison Living 29
IN THE BIZ
WRITTEN BY: LORETTA GILLESPIEPHOTOGRAPHS: SARAH BREWER
InsanitySkate Parka safe environment for teens
Andrew Mockensturm and Joe Grelier are frequent guests.
30 Madison Living
What kind of free-wheelin’, kid lovin’, parent pleasin’ place is Insanity Skate Park?
It’s the newest, coolest, most fun and always safe place around Madison for kids to come and have a great time while they are doing things they love to do.
The 3,000 square foot park, which includes not only a 9-foot concrete bowl and pipes from quarter to 12 and a half inch, but seven batting cages, and two miniature golf courses with 9 or 18 holes.
“There wasn’t a lot for kids to do in this area,” said Insanity Skate Park manager Conry Jones. “Most of the time, they hung out in parking lots and sometimes they got in trouble.”
Insanity Skate Park changed all that. Now teens and young children have a safe, fun environment, a place where they can hang out with their friends, do neat stuff, and get some exercise without even being aware of how good it is for them.
“We have children as young as six-years-old who come here to skate, use the batting cages and play mini-golf,” said Jones. “And we know their parents on a first-name basis. They know that their kids are safe here if they want to run errands.”
Located at 100 Skate Park Drive, just across from the Madison City Hall and the Madison Fire Station, the skate park is a popular destination for grown-ups as well.
“Lots of police officers come in and visit, hit some balls in the batting cages, and just make their presence known,” Jones commented. “We like that.”
Insanity Skate Park offers lessons for those who want to learn to skate.
“We teach them how to do this sport safely,” Jones stressed. “They learn how to fall safely, how to protect themselves from being injured, and all the basic things they need to learn in order to be a good, safe skater.”
Kids can start at the beginner level, and work up to showmanship level, either in a
ABOVE: Chase Freeman works on boards.
ABOVE RIGHT: A variety of boards to choose from.RIGHT: Insanity also has
mini-golf. Patrick and Sean Stewart like to spend
father-son time together playing golf.
Madison Living 31
group or as an individual. “This is a sport that people can learn at
their own pace,” Jones explained.The on –site Asylum Ride Shop offers a
full line of BMX equipment and clothing, skate boards, roller boards and accessories. “This is a ‘full-ride’ shop, you can get everything you need for these sports right here,” said Jones.
BMX and skateboarding are among the most popular of the sports activities at Insanity Skate Park. “They are both gaining in popularity,” Jones commented.
For a great place to bring the whole family, visit Insanity Skate Park, where you’ll find family-oriented fun for the whole gang.
For more information call 256-319-0000, or visit www.insanitycomplex.com
School Year Hours:
School days: 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.Saturdays: 12 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Sundays: 1 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Summer Hours:
Weekdays : noon - 9 p.m.Saturday and Sunday: noon - 10 p.m.
Hours of Operation
32 Madison Living
LEFT: BMX and skateboarding are
among the most popular of the sports
activities at Insanity Skate Park. RIGHT: A
variety of boards to choose from.
RIGHT: Connor Ray jumps mid-air.
Madison Living 33
34 Madison Living
Dr. Gerard Brocato
Dr. Jasper Castillo
Dr. Richard Martin
Dr. Scott McCary
Dr. Mike McFadden
Dr. William McFeely
Dr. Ken Teachey
Dr. John Kostrzewa
2 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS
8337 Hwy 72 W, Ste. 300Madison, AL
MADISON
Madison Living 35
Madison Hospital Campus8337 Hwy 72W.
256-704-HEAR (4327)
Jones Valley2030 Cecil Ashburn Dr.
256-489-3200
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36 Madison Living
TO YOUR
HEALTH
WRITTEN BY: ANNA DURRETTPHOTOGRAPHS: CRISTEN SMITH
Spine and Neuro Center healing North Alabama
Madison Living 37
“I’m happy to be walking.”
Those are the words of David Lewis, a firefighter at Madison Fire and Rescue, who fell off a roof while
helping a friend last September. This March, after recovering for six months, Lewis was cleared to go back to work by the Spine and Neuro Center in Huntsville, where he had spine surgery and attended physical therapy.
“Off duty, I was helping a friend work on a barn, and I fell,” said Lewis. “I spent two days in neuro intensive care, then Dr. Johnson from the Spine and Neuro Center who’s my doctor, did the surgery. I had a T6 vertebrae fracture, so he fused five, six and seven.”
The Spine and Neuro Center takes severe trauma cases such as Lewis’ for all of North Alabama and South Tennessee to those with common spine related pain, as well as cranial and peripheral nerve conditions.
“I see patients from 16 to 99-years-old,” said physiatrist Dr. Hayley White, who is a nonsurgical spine specialist. “Many of my patients are those suffering from neck and back pain who have worked all their lives.”
The center focuses on nonsurgical treatment plans when feasible. “We’re trying to help them alleviate pain and avoid surgery if possible,” said physical therapist Michael Beuoy, director of physical therapy.
“We evaluate and treat our patients conservatively with injection therapy, pain blocks and physical therapy to name a few,” said White. “If patients require surgical intervention, we can then refer them to one of our neurosurgeons for further evaluation. It’s all about providing the right treatment for each patient.”
“The majority of people will get better without surgery,” said neurosurgeon Dr.
John D. Johnson Jr. If surgery is needed, the neurosurgeons use minimally invasive techniques, which reduce strain on the body and lessen recovery time. In Lewis’ case, through surgery “we can return him to the superhero he is,” said Johnson.
To fix Lewis’ T6 compression and burst fracture, Johnson collapsed one of Lewis’ lungs with the assistance of a cardiothoracic surgeon to have enough room to operate. Lewis now has four screws, a titanium plate and a vertebral body cage holding his spine together.
During the first two months Lewis was unable to work, he used his sick leave and vacation days to keep his income flowing. During the remaining four months, people at his work donated their leave to him, essentially providing him with full paychecks until he returned. “It really speaks to their
LEFT: Neurosurgeon Dr. Rhett Murray educating a patient about her spine.BELOW: Nerosurgen Dr. John Johnson Jr. reviewing David Lewis’ post-operative films and holding the type of hardware now holding Lewis’ spine together.
38 Madison Living
character here to do that,” said Lewis. “I’m very grateful.”
The Spine and Neuro Center of Huntsville opened a clinic in the city of Madison on April 27 to provide Madison residents with easy access to spine specialists. The new clinic is located at the Madison Hospital campus in Suite 204 of the Professional Building on U.S. Highway 72 West. The physiatrists and neurosurgeons of the Spine and Neuro Center will spend some days in Huntsville and other days in Madison.
Beuoy said the majority of people will experience some back pain in their lifetime, but the pain subsides on its own in most people. “If you’re starting to develop arm or leg pain, tingling or numbness, especially if you see weakness, that’s a situation where you need to have it checked out immediately,” said Beuoy.
The Spine and Neuro Center has a diverse staff, including physical therapists, three physiatrists and five board-certified neurosurgeons. A sixth neurosurgeon, Dr. Bryan Gaspard, will be joining the team in July.
Physiatrists are nonsurgical spine specialists.
40 Madison Living
BRIDE GUIDE:
MADISON COUNTY
Engagement stories
Riding in style
Long-lasting loveLearn secrets of eternal love
Limo service one one of best in area
Real locals’ love stories from beginning to end
-The first thing you have to
know about us is that we are everything but normal, and
we take great pride in that. Steffen works full-time and attends a local community college part-time. I am a full-time college student at a private university with about a million other things going on. Steffen and I were about to celebrate our three-year dating anniversary and we had not seen each other much that special week, so we decided to have ‘date night’ and go fishing at my daddy’s pond. Dad didn’t get home until later than expected, so it was about dusk the evening of June 24, 2011 when we headed out to the pond.
We knew we wouldn’t have much luck catching anything since it was so late, but we wanted to spend some time together. Upon arriving at the pond, Steffen was going to light the lanterns until he realized he left the lighter at my house. So, we did what country folks would do and got the lanterns, lit with bug spray, and the carry lighter. We got our poles ready for night fishing when Steffen asked me to pass him the bait. Oops, I
Brittany Baskin and Steffen Hess
PHOTOGRAPHS BY: MONTAG PHOTOGRAPHY
accidentally left that at home, too. We cast our lines out a few times knowing we were not going to catch anything, so we decided to pack up and go get some ice cream. While we were packing, Steffen burnt his hands on the lanterns, so I got the privilege of packing the rest
of the stuff into the truck. Once I was done packing, we were sitting on the tailgate of the truck, chitchatting and looking at the beautiful starry sky. I was giving Steffen grief, like I always have, about being together almost three years and still no ring. His sister was getting married in a few weeks and I knew he didn’t want to steal her spotlight. I knew my engagement ring would come later. He said, “Hey, Britt, can I ask you a question?” Then I said, “Well, of course you can!” Then the most amazing unexpected words came out of his mouth, “Brittany, will you marry me?” I was speechless for a few seconds then I said, “Yes,” trying to hold back tears of joy amazement. He did a great job of surprising me with the proposal and he even bought the ring that I really wanted.
Madison Living 41
Jeff and I met at a bar on my 21st birthday. He was there with a friend and I was celebrating. He
was the first guy I saw when I came in and I thoughT he was so hot. He go my number and sent me a text the next day. We started texting, talking, and eventually hanging out. Every year, he and I take a vacation together around Christmas. This year we decided on the Dominican Republic. As we were entering the country, I thought you
were supposed to go over to the group of men searching bags, so I proceeded to walk toward them. He went crazy trying to get me away from them as he had my ring in his bag. Turns out it was Customs. If you bring something that valuable into the country, you have to declare it with them and he didn’t.
Later, I left the safe open in our room, not knowing he was keeping my ring in it. He definitely wasn’t too happy about that. The next day, we
Kristen Banes and Jeff Torbic -
PHOTOGRAPHS BY: SARAH BREWER
took a walk on the beach and we were having coffee on the balcony enjoying the sunset, when he proceeded to tell me how much he loved me, kissed me, and then he popped the question. I cried for about 15 minutes before I could get out a yes. Once back in the country, I had to wait nine days before seeing my family in person to tell them at Christmas. You can’t just tell that news over the phone. It was beyond hard keeping it a secret from my friends, as I was afraid one of them would tell their parents. Needless to say, my parents were beyond excited. We are getting married Nov. 11, 2012 at the Lodge on Monte Sano Mountain.
42 Madison Living
-After my Auburn graduation Dec.
2009, I moved back home to work in Athens.
At that time, Russell--my boyfriend of more than two years--and I had took a break from our relationship. We had a year of being apart to realize what we had in one another. I quit my job in December of 2010 to take a giant leap of faith in moving back to Auburn to be with him. That proved to be just the ticket for us.
In May 2011, Russell and I took a weekend trip to his hometown. I remember him asking me to go fishing with him. It was cold outside and had an overcast. I said no at first, having no idea what he wanted to do. He asked again, so I went for him. We hadn’t been fishing for more than 15 minutes when I tangled my line. He helped me, and I went down the bank to toss the line again.
Another 20 minutes passed and I tangled my line again. I called for him to help and he made no effort to hurry to my side. It was then that I focused all of my attention on untangling my line by myself. Russell called my name and I turned to see him on one
Katie Hines and Russell Brown
PHOTOGRAPHS BY: APRIL STANLEY
knee dangling his fishing line in front of me.
It’s hard to take everything in at one time. Russell was talking, a ring was in front of my face, and I looked awful. I was able to make out the fact that he was proposing. Before I could
make out of my words to say yes I was already asking a question. I wanted to know that he had asked my father. After confirming that he had, I agreed. We’ve been engaged for nearly one year and are set to wed June 2 in Guntersville.
Wedding planning has been a very stressful and exciting thing in itself. I would say that my favorite part has been finding the dress. Planning is hard at times. I find it difficult to envision exactly what I want. I am more focused on the marriage that I am entering into with Russell. When I was a freshman at Auburn, I prayed that I would find someone that would love me and encourage me to do great things. God brought Russell into my life.
We are both from North Alabama. I am from Harvest. We both have decided to remain in the Auburn area.
Madison Living 43
44 Madison Living
It all started on starry night in March of 2005 when we met at a social gathering in Madison. It
was love at first sight. We went on our first date and soon after that, Matt asked me to prom. From then on out, we were a couple. We were both very supportive of each others dreams and aspirations along with being super busy all through high school. I guess you could call us the cliché high school sweethearts. Then a bump in the road came along. Matt was headed to Auburn University while I had one more year at Bob Jones. Praise the Lord I put up with Matt for that first year.
In 2007, I joined Matt at Auburn.
We spent the next five years “living the dream” in the beautiful town of Auburn. We have made some of our best friends and mentors, and also made our lifelong commitment together while on the Auburn Plains. It was in October of 2010 when Matt knew he wanted to propose to me and marry his best friend. Matt ran it by the parents and they were very supportive and everyone said the classic quote, “It was only a matter of time.”
Matt popped the big question on December 24, 2010. He knew Christmas Eve couldn’t have been more special. Matt took me up to his parent’s cabin in the beautiful mountains of North
Alabama. It was a complete surprise of me and I had no idea the whole hour drive to the cabin that my life was about to change. It was beautifully decorated with lights, candles, flowers and memorable pictures of our journey together. With no phone service, Matt’s dad and sister drove minutes ahead to turn everything on and get everything ready for the big moment. It worked out perfectly as we pulled down the long narrow driveway to a pitch black cabin. The thoughts going through our minds were priceless. As we walked up to the cabin steps and I saw the first glimpse of hanging lights, the tears began to flow. I walked into a decorated room and a Santa Claus was sitting at a decorated table with a fake present in his lap. Matt told me to go get my present and as soon as I turned back around, he was down on one knee with the ring in my hand. It was the perfect moment as Matt made the proposal and the ‘Yes’ came out of my mouth in sheer happiness. It was perfect and we got it all on tape. We came home to a big celebration with friends and family and patiently--not really--counting down the days to the big day. We give a huge thanks to the Lord everyday for blessing us with each other and each of us are so thankful we get to marry our best friends.
The couple will marry June 2, 2012.
Regina Reagan and Matt Vetz -
Madison Living 45
-Ben and I first met at On
the Rocks on St. Patrick’s Day 2010 in Florence. Both
had attended the University of North Alabama, but had never previously met.
Ben was working full time as a nurse at ECM Hospital in Florence and was working on his master’s degree at UAH. He agreed to go out that night to celebrate his fraternity brother’s birthday.
After we met, we found each other on Facebook and exchanged phone numbers.
A couple months went by with no contact from either of us.
One night in April, I went to my first fraternity party with some friends, which happened to be Ben’s fraternity’s annual South Seas social event.
We saw each other and ended up talking upstairs with some friends. We were about to leave until he suddenly
grabbed me and kissed me. The kiss seemed like it lasted
forever.I knew there was something special
about him that was different than any other guy I had ever met.
They eventually went on several dates over the course of a couple months began exclusively dating.
After a year of dating, we started talking about the possibility of marriage.
Ben asked me to marry him by writing ‘Marry me’ in Christmas lights on his wall. He had wrapped it in wrapping paper to make it look like a picture wrapped as a present.
He made me turn around and close my eyes as he unwrapped the paper and unveiled the proposal. When I turned around, he asked if I would spend forever with him. Of course, I
said “of course.”He was so nervous he forgot to get
down on one knee.The ring was not created exactly as
we had designed, so we had to send it back to get a new one made. I was without my engagement ring for some time.
Ben received the new ring without me knowing. It was on the day we had planned to visit a possible wedding venue at Gorhams Bluff in Pisgah.
As I was looking over the rail at the beautiful view on the bluff, Ben got down on one knee with the right ring and asked if I would marry him again. Again, I said I would.
After that, there was no doubt that Gorhams Bluff would be the final wedding destination.
Ben and Natalie plan to marry Nov. 3, 2012.
Natallie Pitts and Ben Barnes
46 Madison Living
It was around the holidays. Kris and I made Greek food and invited my parents to dinner.
After watching the presentation of the Heisman Trophy, Kris politely suggested we have our picture taken with the Christmas decorations. Suggesting turned into whining so I agreed with clenched teeth. We put
on our football jerseys and had my dad take a few pictures in front of the fireplace.
I think we are finished and try to sit down. Then Kris says, “Let’s get some in our baseball jerseys, too.”
I attempted not to be an awful person in front of my parents and tried everything from, “I look awful”, to
‘let’s do this tomorrow’ and even ‘I don’t want my picture taken’. However, he was persistent, so I finally agreed after I voiced my displeasure.
I came out in my jersey and he said, “You’re missing something.” Needless to say I was annoyed and most likely gave an unsavory response. He said I was missing a purse I own, which is of the same color as my jersey. He went and grabbed the purse and I tried to rip it out of his hands out of annoyance. He said I was missing something else to which I responded, “What else could I possibly be missing?” He pulled out the ring box, got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. I said, Yes after a few seconds of shock.
The couple will be married Oct. 6, 2012.
-Alexia Learner and Kris Gundersen
PHOTOGRAPHS BY: KEITH ZEMNES
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-I was 16-years-old when I fell in
love with my best friend. As a teenager, I couldn’t help but fall
head-over-heels in love with 17-year-old Clayton Simons--number one on our high-school tennis team, calculus smarty-pants, and a man after God’s own heart. It also didn’t hurt that he was incredibly handsome. The past five years with him have been the best of my life. Together, we embraced every joy and tackled every hardship life threw at us. It has been a wonderful blessing to grow up with his love and support. The longer we are together, the more I admireD his selfless, kind and giving spirit. He will always be the best part of me. In high school, he would come over every night to eat dinner with my family. At first, it was any excuse to see me, but the more he came the more he became a part of our family. Becoming a part of the family not only meant loving my parents and brother, but also Frederick Sebastian, our beloved Shih Tzu. It only makes sense that when Clayton proposed, he did so at my parent’s house with a Shih Tzu for us to call our own.
November 6 was a Sunday no different than any other. We were home from
college for the weekend and had gone to the church where my father is a pastor. I had just woken up from a nap when Clayton came over and told me he had a surprise for me outside. As he led my groggy, half-asleep self outside, I couldn’t help but notice his excitement.
He was leading me towards the pond in our backyard when I spotted sweet little Albert (my new Shih Tzu) on the grass. I squealed as I picked up the ball of brown fluff. Poor Clayton, he was on his knee for over five minute before I came back to reality and saw the ring around Albert’s collar. I had to keep reassuring myself that I was not still napping and that it wasn’t some wonderful dream. In fact, it was every dream come true. I will never forget the look in Clayton’s eyes as he so nervously asked me to be his wife. Albert Theodore, my engagement puppy, was born on our dating anniversary and will always represent the start of our family together. It was the beginning of our life together and the beginning of our love story. Clayton West Simons, I love you to the moon and back, forever and always.
The couple will marry Aug. 11, 2012.
Mandy McLelland and Clayton Simons
48 Madison Living
If you are ever looking for a way to ride in style, Feria Limousine, located just between the Madison and Huntsville area, would be more
than happy to be at your service. Richard McGrimmes, owner of Feria
Limousine says his company offers transportation for weddings, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, bachelor/bachelorette parties, trips to football games and even trendy sweet sixteen parties.
McGrimmer says he is open to doing whatever you have in mind.
“Often times, while we’re out, our drivers get asked what’s the limo for and we like to place special magnetic signs on the limo that specifies exactly what we are doing for that day, like the
“Just Married” signs,” he says.“We also have a red carpet ready at hand
for our special guests to step out on upon their arrival at their destination.”
Feria Limo can incorporate any package of your choice, as well as offering beverages to your guests while you enjoy the ride.
Feria Limo offers their guests up to ten people to ride in a black stretch Chrysler 300 with two built-in DVD screens on either side of the limo.
“Many sweet sixteen parties take advantage of DVD screens while listening and watching their favorite music videos,” he says.
McGrimmer says the Chrysler 300 has a state-of-the-art sound system; optic lighting that comes in several colors and the lighting can be controlled by the guests.
“We like for our guests to enjoy the atmosphere of the limo and adjust it to their likings.”
Nevertheless, the most popular package for Feria Limousine Company is the wedding package, which allows the guest to have the limo at their disposal for the day.
McGrimmer says the wedding package can be broken into half a day or whole day.
Many guests like the whole day option, especially the brides-to-be because the bridesmaids could have their hair and nails done without worrying about the wedding party not getting there on time.
“If someone needs to be picked up last minute we are there to accommodate you and your guests,” he added.
McGrimmer says you never have to worry about the drivers. They are professional and
WRITTEN BY: BRITTNEY JONESPHOTOGRAPHS: MICHAEL HANSBERRY
Riding in Stylewith Feria
always dress in a black suit and tie. Drew Buchannan is one of the drivers for
Feria Limousine he’s been with the company since they opened.
McGrimmer says the best time to book weddings would be up to four months in advance, Prom season starts as early as December and if you would like to arrange to be taken to the upcoming Auburn or
Alabama football games you should reserve the limo by July.
“You never have to worry about over-bookings, our service is committed to you and your guests,” he added.
You can visit Ferra Limousine Company at ferialimo.com or more information or for limo reservations please contact McGrimer at [email protected].
Feria Limo offers their guests up to ten people to ride in a black
stretch Chrysler 300 with two built-in DVD screens on either
side of the limo.
Madison Living 49
Being in the military certainly comes with its perks, and marrying the love
of his life was the best perk Keith Gower could have ever received.
Keith and his wife Abby have been married for more than 50 years and counting. Both agreed that communication is the secret to their long lasting marriage.
Abby was born in Japan. A self-described business woman, she worked as a full-time real estate agent. That’s when she first met Keith.
Keith was in the United States Air Force and was stationed in Japan.
Keith says he was out with a friend, looking for a rental home for his family.
“I didn’t approach her the first time I saw her, she seemed to be only about business,” says Keith.
That friend ended up renting the home from Abby.
“We would both visit our friend’s home from time to time, but somehow they always managed to make sure that we would see each other,” says Abby.
She says Keith was always kind and once they got to know each other, she allowed him to take her on their first date.
“Our first date was a cowboy’s movie,” says Keith. From that point on, Keith and Abby continued dating. A year and a half later, they married on Nov. 19, 1961 in Japan.
After their first year as newlyweds, Keith decided the couple should move back to the United States. They ended up in California.
“Once we moved, I just really wanted to go back home,” says Abby. She became a stay at home mom to her two children- a son and daughter.
Later, the couple moved to Huntsville where Keith worked as an RV mechanic and Abby worked on Red Stone Arsenal at PX Exchange as a cook.
Keith says their relationship has remained on track because he has always allowed Abby to be his best friend.
Now both retired, the couple sends their time traveling.
“We recently visited Hawaii and Canada. We go on about one or two trips a year,” he says.
Keith says in a relationship, you will always have your ups and downs, but one should never let the ups outweigh the downs.
Friendshipthe secret to a successful marriageWRITTEN BY: BRITTNEY JONES & MICHAEL HANSBERRYPHOTOGRAPH: MICHAEL HANSBERRY
ABOVE: The couple has been married for more
than 50 years.LEFT: The two met in
Japan. This photo was taken on a trip back
to Japan 15 years ago. (Contributed)
50 Madison Living
Spring is here and plenty of excitement is in the air especially
for those brides-to-be. The hardest task for them is finding someone responsible enough to make their day perfect.
All brides can agree that looking for the right wedding planner is just as stressful as looking for Mr. Right. If you are searching for a wedding planner, your search is over. Exquisite Concepts is here to your rescue as your fairy godmother. Owner Philicia Bellinger says she provides assistance to create a unique passion for your personal experiences.
“My ultimate goal in bridal consulting is to provide the lucky lady and her wedding party with a stress free pre-wedding experience while efficiently and effectively planning the wedding of her dreams,” she says.
Bellinger states Exquisite Concepts strives to make sure that every client vision comes into reality with their experience and assistance.
“It’s our goal to make dreams come true. I cater to every woman by offering three dream packages that fit a wide variety of personalities and personal expectations.”
Bellinger says Exquisite Concepts pride themselves in their dedication, positive feedback and going above and beyond the call of duty.
Exquisite Concepts is partnered
with several experienced business owners including OJ’s photography, Couture Elements Hair & Body Spa, several disk jockeys and graphic designers.
“We provide wedding and event planning in the Southeastern states, but will be happy to travel to your destination event,” she added.
Bellinger says she always had the passion for planning elegant events from the time she was a young teenage girl.
“I would just get so excited when watching TV shows such as “Who’s Wedding is it Anyways”. I could sit for hours flipping through magazines and writing down innovative ideas for the most extravagant parties and weddings,” says Bellinger.
Not only does Bellinger plan weddings but she also provides management and personal assistance to young ladies in pageants, hair shows, fashion shows and other special occasions.
“We provide services for receptions, birthday parties, bridal and baby showers, pageants, holiday parties,etc,” she added.
Bellinger offers several packages and she is always happy to customize a plan for you.
Exquisite Concepts is located in Huntsville, Alabama. You can visit them on the web at Exquisiteconcepts.org or on Facebook, for more information contact Philica Bellinger by email at exquisite.concepts@
Exquisite Conceptshelps plan weddingsWRITTEN BY: BRITTNEY JONES
yahoo.com. Planning a wedding should be fun, make sure you get together with your planner to collaborate your ides.
You won’t be surprised when you feel more at peace knowing your wedding is in the right hands.
Bellinger states Exquisite Concepts
strives to make sure that every client
vision comes into reality with their experience and
assistance.
Madison Living 51
52 Madison Living
Conservative care with a convenient new Madison location – that’s what sets Spine & Neuro Center apart. As the region’s leading spine center, we offer both surgical and nonsurgical solutions. The fact is, most spine problems are successfully treated without surgery. And if you ever need surgery, Spine & Neuro offers the advantage of skilled neurosurgeons – the only specialists who can treat the entire spine. Spinal injuries and conditions can range from simple to complex. Visit our landmark facility on Governors Drive or the convenient new Madison office for exactly the right treatment.
Our new office is on the Madison Hospital campus, in Suite 204 of the Professional Building at 8371 Hwy 72 W.
Including the option of our new Madison officefor convenient, comprehensive spine care.
When it comes to your spine, it’s good to have options.
NeuroSpine Surgeons: Rhett B. Murray, M.D., F.A.C.S. | Joel D. Pickett, M.D., F.A.C.S. John D. Johnson, Jr., M.D., F.A.C.S. | Cheng W. Tao, M.D. | Jason T. Banks, M.D.
Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation: Keith C. Anderson, D.O., FAAPMR | Hayley C. White, M.D. | W. Luke Robinson, M.D.
Huntsville • Madison • Decatur |201 Governors Drive • Huntsville, AL 35801Toll Free: 1-888-736-1762 • 256-533-1600 • www.spineandneuro.com
Madison Living 53
OUT & ABOUT
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1. Adrienne Stephens, Susie Masotti, Amy Bell, Terri Turner, Mayor Paul Finley, Felicia McInnish, Terry Cabrera and Geraldine McNamara2. Tessy Cabrera and Amy Bell3. Tessy Cabrera 4. Geraldine McNamara and Felicia McInnish5. Michele Hickerson, the first customer the day of the ribbon cutting6. Susie Masotti7. Terri Turner and Mayor Paul Finley8. Mary Kelley9. Tessy Cabrera and Terri Turner
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Maurice’s Ribbon CuttingMaurice’s held its grand opening and ribbon cutting April 20 at its new location at 8215 U.S. Highway 72 West.
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SNAP opens new thrift storeThe steady ring of cash registers sounded throughout the space of the new Spay Neuter Action Project thrift store in Huntsville during the grand opening of its new location on April 14. SNAPs new store is located at 2905 Bob Wallace.
1. Dolores Bradshaw with Spot and Midnight
2. Wayne and Jasmine Turner
3. Linda Shannaon and Nancy Whelan
4. Janice Colvard
5. Marina Herrera and Brenda Nalls
6. Jacquelyn Thompson
7. Debbie Sparks
8. Zach Taylor
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1. Jennifer McCafferty and Matt Williams adopted a kitten named Lancelot from MARF2. Dolores Bradshaw of the Spay Neuter Action Project with her foster dogs Brindy, Midnight and Spot3. Laurie Shaw with Chestnut and Karson Faulkner; 4.Lawren Murray and MARF founder and director Miki Bennett with Blossom, MARF’s 800th rescued dog5. Lawren Murray and MARF founder and director Miki Bennett with Blossom, MARF’s 800th rescued dog6. MARF volunteer Lawren Murray holding Shaylee, Brandi Cagle, Alex Druneski holding Dino, Abby Murray and Amy Lyons holding Lexie;
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Petco Grand OpeningThe new Petco in Madison at The Shoppes of Madison on U.S. Highway 72 held its grand opening April 14. Animals from several rescue organizations were onsite for adoption.
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Pie in the Sky tests food on VIPsBefore opening to the general public April 25, Pie in the Sky held a preview party April 17 for Madison VIPs including Mayor Paul Finley and members of the Madison Chamber of Commerce. Pie in the Sky is located at The Shoppes of Madison on U.S. Highway 72 West.
1. Ryan Decker, Pie in the Sky marketing associate
2. Caroline and Kelly Black, owners of Pie in the Sky
3. Katy and Susie Masotti
4. Eric Lindelof
5. Tessy Cabrera and Katy and Michael
Masotti with a Hydrangea centerpiece
6. Rich Partain from Straight to Ale Brewery
7. Amber Busha
8. Steven Stark and Harley Houston
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1. Felix Obilo and Sam Dean2. Mitch Wilson and Kel Markert3. Jacob Letsholo and Mason Lavallett 4. Kyle Simmons and Andrew Ingram5. Gerry Cleary and Andy Zorovich6. Jonathan Cabale and Amaury Barritault7. Steven Lunney and Adam Grant8. Lee Glass and Matthew Shattuck9. Johnny Hayes and tom Cosgrave
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2RCU after hoursRocket City United soccer team held its Madison Chamber of Commerce after hours at the Hogan Family YMCA.The after hours was held Thursday, May 2 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
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Spring Farm Days at Burritt on the MountainBurritt on the Mountain in Huntsville held its annual event Spring Farm Days April 14-15. The weekend was a celebration of the beginning of spring and farm life.
1. Linda Boswell and Karlee Pessoney
2. Kathy and Finn Walker, Burritt volunteer Mary Siebert and Eli Walker
3. William Bell, Raylon Alexander and Robert Spencer, a goat, sheep and rabbit specialist with Alabama Cooperative Extension System
4. Olivia, Nevan, Colin and Liam Trapani
5. Ethan and Karlee Pessoney
6. Michael Taylor III, Bailey Callender, Burritt volunteer Rita Crouse, Savonne Taylor
and Rita Crouse
7. Fox Holmes
8. Katie Young
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1. Felecia McInnish, Phebe Steele and Adrienne Stephens2. Ron Christian, Nila Darji and Tessy Cabrera3. Roseanna Cox, Jenny Woods, Candace Blacke4. Neha,Chintan and Kiran Patel5. Ron Christian and Richard Alexander6. Neha Patel, Felecia McInnish and Kiran Patel7. Doug Kaier and Adrienne Stephens8. Jeff Briner, Crystal Drance and Phebe Steel9. Keith Graham and Jeff Briner10. Pam Williams, Nicloe Arsenault and Michelle Nissan11. Richard King and Keith Graham12. Gernaldine McNaira, Whiteny Brooks and Kenny Dodson
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Monthly Chamber LuncheonThe Madison Chamber of Commerce held its monthly event After Hours April 5 at Country Inn and Suites. After hours is a networking event that helps connect the Madison business community.
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1. Ronica Ondocsin, Nansi Clark, Terry Palek and Patty Demos2. Lisa Thomas and Paula Bradford3. Yvonne Boyington and Pam Williams4. Greg Tanksley and Doug Kiser5. Diane Nazarchyk, Deborah Mercier and Richard King.
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2Chamber After HoursThe Madison Chamber of Commerce held its monthly event After Hours April 5 at Country Inn and Suites. After hours is a networking event that helps connect the Madison business community.
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Y’ALL COME BACK
Look out for next month’s edition.PHOTOGRAPH BY SARAH BREWER
Madison Living 65
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66 Madison Living