• A-1 Final Cleaning*
• Accent Window Blinds*
• Alabama Constitution Village NP*
• Alabama Landscape Curbin'*
• Alabama Orthotics & Prosthetics*
• ALS Association of Alabama NP*
• Armstrong Relocation*
• Betterliving by SunSpace*
• Burrit on the Mountain-A Living Museum NP*
• Cedar Creek Contracting, Inc.*
• The Chocolate Café*
• Choose Life of North Alabama NP*
• Christ Our Passover Unity Banquet NP*
• Clowers-Wilburn Group at Smith Barney*
• Coldwell Banker Premier*
• Conquest GMC Western Star*
• Creative Catering*
• D. Mark Holman, CPA*
• Dallas Davis Insurance Agency - Nationwide*
• Dean & Son Plumbing*

• Joe Demos, State Farm Insurance*
• Lee Builders*
• Lewis and Son Roofing & Construction*
• McDonald Bros. Construction*
• Mercedes Benz/Regal Nissan of Huntsville*
• Mr. Rooter*
• National Children’s Advocacy Center, The NP*
• Office Furniture Outlet COVER STORY*
• Dr. Paula Gilliam Chiropractic Clinic*
• Perfect Turf*
• Resource Service Professionals*
• Rosenblum Realty, Inc.*
• Russ Russell Commercial Real Estate*
• Seniors LTC*
• Signs By Tomorrow*
• Stoneworks of Alabama*
• Wharf, The*
• White's Refrigeration*
• Woodland Homes of Huntsville, Inc.*

COVER STORY: Office Furniture Outlet*

Ask Niles Prestage of Office Furniture Outlet about his accomplishments, and you’ll hear how proud he is of his growing office furniture business and how honored he is to serve as president of the Metro Kiwanis Club. He may mention how humbled he was when his business was nominated for Business of the Year by the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce, and later, how he was nominated as Small Business Executive of the Year. He’ll talk about loving his church and the 57-acre farm in Gurley that calls him home every night. But, dig a little deeper, and you’ll uncover the love and pride of a family man, foster parent, and grandparent. "I thank the Lord every day for allowing me to live long enough to be a grandfather," he said recently at his office on South Parkway.

Daughter, Amanda, has blessed Niles and his wife of 35 years, Judy, with two beautiful grandchildren, Ashton, 8, and Jake, 5. Niles and Judy are blessed with another daughter, Brittney, 13, who joined the family as a foster child when she was four months old. She was adopted at age 3.

Niles, a native of Huntsville and 1965 graduate of Lee High School, married Judy just one day shy of graduating from the University of Alabama. Niles fondly remembers those years at the university not only because that is where he met his future bride, but it’s also where he played football or ‘kept the bench warm’ for the legendary Paul Bear Bryant. Niles has used words of wisdom from the legendary coach to form his business motto: Always be in a position to win. "The challenge Coach Bryant presented made me a better person, and taught me how to work through every challenge in my life," Niles said. "The influence was rewarding, and I try to present those rewards to our customers."

In its 12th year in business, Office Furniture Outlet has grown from a 12,000 square-foot office and showroom full of factory returns and scratch and dent furniture, to two stores with a combined 75,000 square-feet and $1 million inventory of some of the most distinctive office furniture in the area. Locations are 11507 South Memorial Parkway, and 307 2nd Avenue in Decatur. "Every year, we try to upgrade our stock so we consistently offer the largest selection of office furniture at wholesale or near wholesale prices," Niles explained. Just a few of the famous name brand manufacturers you’ll see at Office Furniture Outlet are Paoli, Hooker, Riverside, Berkline, Jasper Desk, Globe, HON, IFI, and Ashley. Niles enjoys traveling the United States in search of bargains, and he truly enjoys passing the savings on to his customers. He’s excited about an upcoming excursion to the world’s largest trade show, Canton Fair in China. "This trip should provide new opportunities to provide fine furniture and accessories to North Alabama," Niles said.

Office Furniture Outlet can accommodate large or small offices with complete executive office furniture, panel systems, and accessories. To accommodate growing home-based businesses, Office Furniture Outlet provides expert advice for home office set ups. A sales professional from Office Furniture Outlet will visit your home and make recommendations based on coordinating your existing home furniture with your new home office furniture, while keeping any budget in mind.

Office Furniture Outlet is a family-oriented business run by Niles with the help of sister, Sherron Culpepper, and brother, Mark. Tim Hastings has become a fixture at Office Furniture Outlet, starting nine years ago after retiring from the military. He serves as general manager. Bill Lanier, a well-known Huntsvillian, and Denise Versaw, are sales representatives. Larry Presnall is business manager, and Bruce Waldon is operations manager at the South Parkway store. Visit Office Furniture Outlet on the web at http://www.officefurnitureoutlet.com, or stop by the showroom Monday through Friday, 9am – 6pm.

Top of page

Make Your Events Memorable with Creative Catering

Since June 1998, Owner David King of Creative Catering has been making Creative Memories with outstanding food, attention to details, and strong customer service. Creative Catering can service a variety of functions from corporate picnics, weddings, and private parties to backyard barbeques.

King credits his success to doing the basics: providing good food, good service, and the best pricing. Staying true to his company’s name, King promises creativity across the board by developing a blueprint for your event, customizing menus, and providing guidance and suggestions with American and ethnic cuisine.

King values his clients and knows how important each event is to each client. "I have received many ‘Thank You’ notes for our work, and I have many wonderful memories from the events we have served," King says. "Each catered event is special to us, and it is our job, regardless of the size or purpose for the catered event, to provide every client with professionalism, culinary skill, and hard work. As a result of this commitment, we have been privileged to touch clients’ lives in very special ways."

Creative Catering literally goes the extra mile to provide quality service. One wedding client states, "I am so thankful that I found your web site on the Internet. Although I called you from Pennsylvania the day before Thanksgiving this year, you were still able to provide a full Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings for my friend and her two sons. When she called to thank me, she was crying with joy. THANK YOU for your kind and professional response." Another client stated, "Thank you for your assistance with the meal you provided for us after my father’s funeral. Your work allowed me to focus on my family during this difficult time." And another client said, "Thank you for the superb job you did catering our daughter’s wedding reception in Auburn. We were very impressed and extremely pleased that you were able to travel 250 miles and put on such a beautiful and delicious display. There was nothing for us to do, but relax, have a final glass of wine, and turn out the lights."

Whether Creative Catering is catering an upscale wedding reception, a large corporate picnic, a backyard family reunion barbeque with King’s famous "Super Smoker", or the annul dinner of your favorite nonprofit organization, King and his staff give it their all. "We give all of our clients our undivided attention, from the small jobs to the big," says King. A recent client wrote, "I just wanted to say thank you for all the hard work you put into our ‘Ladies Night Out’. I never want to overlook the fact that you work so hard at what you do, yet you take the time out to work my little event with such care, as if it were the event of the century. I appreciate you and the time and effort you spent making my life so much easier."

Several services in particular make Creative Catering so famous with clients that folks can’t stop talking about them. They are King’s mouth-watering "Carve-To-Order" stations, featuring pork tenderloin, turkey breast, roast beef and ham, as well as the extraordinary fruit and vegetable carvings. A satisfied client said, "Thank you so very much for a fantastic job. Everybody is still raving over the wonderful food. You made a very special day ‘extra special’ for all of us."

Whether it’s a large or small event, King and his staff provides flavorful food to make your occasion an "Event to Remember". For more information, contact Creative Catering at 611 Winchester Road, call (256) 851-1926, or visit the web site at www.creativecater.com.

Top of page

Enfinger Steele Development*
...building neighborhoods designed for life

The Ultimate Community

Nestled amidst the mountains, bordered by hundreds of protected acres and the Flint River, lies the setting for Huntsville’s most distinguished residential community–McMullen Cove.

Framed by breathtaking vistas from every vantage point, the property has been masterfully planned to limit the impact on the beautiful surroundings, while accommodating a variety of ownership opportunities, including mountaintop estate- sized home sites.

Leading the way in each community’s design is the preservation and irreplaceable beauty of its natural environments...nature trails, mountain views, waterfalls, wildlife, and tranquil lakes. By building your home in such a magnificent place, you will have the use of hundreds of acres beyond your own homesite.

Today’s prospective homeowners look for more than a beautiful house. "People want a sense of place—a connection with their neighbors and a community they call home," says President and co-owner, Sandra Steele. Enfinger Steele Development is Huntsville’s most prominent developer of award winning communities. Jeff Enfinger, the company’s founder, has more than twenty-six years of experience in residential development, and is the company’s visionary and planner. "He has a talent for visualizing a community on a tract of land," says Steele. "My role is to help bring that vision to fruition." Steele adds, "Our business philosophy has always been the same...to serve our customer." Another philosophy shared by Enfinger and Steele is the commitment to give back to their community. Each has volunteered their service for many years to civic, charitable, and governmental organizations, providing leadership for the community at large.

ESD’s newest development, McMullen Cove, reflects the synthesis of the partner’s talents. In developing the 2,400 acres, which includes mountain and river lands, ESD will carry on the legacy of the families that owned the land. "There’s an emotional attachment, and the families want to know that the land will be developed into a community they can be proud of," says Steele.

Through the establishment of architectural guidelines, the property owners of McMullen Cove will enjoy the assurance of maximized long-term preservation, growth of values, and the certainty of the highest quality of lifestyle. The McMullen Cove Builders Guild–not just a building team, but a "team of builders"– true craftsmen, whose vision is to provide homebuyers with a choice...the ultimate community with unparalleled architectural designs. The Guild includes Barry Phillips of Barry Phillips Builders, Jerry Van Hooser of Designer Builders, Doug Wiersig of Doug Wiersig Homes, Mark Justice of Mark Justice Construction, Jim Neighbors of Old Town Builders, John Moore of Mitchell Homebuilders, John Allen and Bob Goff of Southern Construction and Design, Ty Rains of Ty Rains Construction, Byrne Turner and Brant Neely of Vintage-B.T. Neely Custom Homes, and Bryan Pogue of Matrix Builders.

Discover the incredible amenities of McMullen Cove...

• Gated Community

• 12 Miles of Walking Trails

• Six Lakes

• Pools and Tennis Courts

• Mountain Streams and Waterfalls

• Sublett Pointe Park–a mountaintop pavilion available for picnics and family gatherings

• Cove Falls Cabin–cabin and camping area at the head of the McMullen Cove Creek

• Access to the Flint River for canoeing and to the Flint River Greenway

• 1500-acres of park land dedicated for the use and enjoyment of the homeowners of McMullen Cove

The Club - Wellness Spa • Heated Indoor Pool • Library • Ballroom

Homesites will be available for purchase in April 2006. Visit the McMullen Cove Information Center, or visit us on the web at www.mcmullencove.net. For details call (256) 756-0007.

Top of page

Lewis and Son Roofing & Construction Can ‘Stop a Leak’ even in a commercial/industrial building

For the last 50 years, Lewis and Son Roofing & Construction has been “stopping leaks” on commercial and residential roofs. In Madison County, President Shane Lewis and his staff carry on what the company is best known for…properly installing top-quality products with excellent warranties. “We have a very successful residential and commercial roofing business because people want professional service,” Lewis says, “and they have recognized that Lewis and Son does a professional job – every time. Our staff is covered by Workers Compensation, is bonded and insured, and we offer after-hours emergency service and free estimates,” Shane adds.

With commercial projects, Lewis and Son follows a standard procedure: 1. Find the leak; 2. Determine the origin of the leak; 3. Repair or replace the roof section. Lewis and Son utilize Mule-Hide Products, known as “The name trusted in roofing since 1906”, for repair and replacement projects. “We have always served our Huntsville and Madison County commercial customers well by using top-quality products from Mule-Hide,” Shane says. 

Lewis and Son purchases its Mule-Hide Products from ABC Supply Co. in Huntsville.  JL Lewis, founder of Lewis and Son Roofing & Construction, and Shane’s father formed a close relationship with ABC Supply years ago. Managing Partner of ABC Supply Co., Curtis Neal, says, “ABC Supply Co. is the largest roofing and siding distributor in the world, and we provide Lewis and Son with quality materials and excellent service.”

The three types of Mule-Hide Products that Lewis and Son typically purchase from ABC Supply Co. are EPDM Roofing Systems, Self-Adhering Modified Bitumen Roofs, and Elastromeric Acrylic Coating. Each system is energy efficient and provides numerous and unique features for a high-quality roof that lasts. In addition to the manufacturer warranties on these products, Lewis and Son Roofing provides a warranty on labor. “On commercial roof repairs, we offer a strong warranty: ten years on labor from Lewis and Son, and 10 years on materials from the manufacturer,” Shane Lewis states.

Some of the commercial customers that Lewis and Son have served include Woody Anderson Ford, Lily Flagg Mini Storage, Southside Baptist Church, Giles & Kendall Cedar Mill, Madison County Elementary School, Decatur Baptist Church, Richard’s Lighting, and Green Hills Grille.

Lewis and Son, famous for “stopping a leak” in over 500 roofs a year, uses GAF roofing materials on residential homes. They hold a Master Elite status from GAF, North America’s largest roofing manufacturer. “We take the time to find leaks and properly fix the problem on each roofing project to make sure the customer is both happy and satisfied,” Lewis says. He adds, “We offer a one-year, money-back guarantee on leak repairs, 24/7 roof-repair emergency service, and a flat-tire guarantee if one of the company’s nails gives your car a flat tire.”

Lewis and Son Roofing is equally competent in doing remodeling work, replacing windows and doors, installing siding, and building a deck on your house. True to their philosophy, they always use top-quality products, such as Anderson Windows and Doors, James Hardie Siding, and Trex Decking and Railing. 

Lewis and Son Roofing & Construction is a member of the National Federation Independent Business Organization, the Huntsville/Madison County Home Builders Association, and the National Roofers Contracting Association. For more information, contact the company at 910 Church Street in Huntsville, (256) 533-1213, toll-free at (800) 951-9269, or visit www.lewisandsonroofing-hsv.com.

Top of page

New location, same great service

Signs by Tomorrow can make your company’s signage stand out with vivid, bold, and creative signs at competitive prices. Since 2000, Owner Barry Bowerman has been providing customers with high quality signs and displays such as banners, menu boards, post and panel signs, indoor and outdoor back-lit signs, tradeshow displays, vehicle wraps, electric signs, presentation materials, and more.

To provide more unique services to its customers, Signs by Tomorrow has opened a larger facility at 1803 University Drive, between Memorial Parkway and Church Street in Huntsville. "Our new facility is centrally located and gives us more capability," Bowerman says. "We now have indoor facilities for vehicle lettering and graphics. And, now that we have more room, we’ve added a second wide-format printer for outstanding tradeshow, POP, and other indoor graphics."

Signs by Tomorrow has a talented team with a wealth of experience. From graphic designers to highly skilled sign specialists, the staff works hard to deliver the best signs available. Bowerman says the company also features the most technologically advanced equipment with the recently purchased Hewlett Packard 5500 wide-format printer. This enables Signs by Tomorrow to produce premium products with crystal clear images on a variety of materials.

Whether you’re looking for magnetic, real estate or electric signs, tradeshow displays, or vehicle wraps, Signs by Tomorrow has the resources and the reputation needed to earn your business. The company is also a factory authorized and trained dealer of the FastTracks Mounting Solution System, which can be instantly mounted on buildings, trucks, and billboards. If you’re not sure what you want, bring in your ideas and visions. Signs by Tomorrow can create the innovative signs you only dreamed possible.

Signs by Tomorrow is located at 1803 University Drive. For more information, call (256) 722-8522, visit the company’s web site at www.signsbytomorrow.com/huntsville, or stop by in person.

Top of page

Dr. Paula D. Gilliam has provided chiropractic services in Huntsville for over 25 years. Her professional goal is not only to determine if your problem might respond to chiropractic care, but also to personalize those services to meet your specific needs.

Feeling drained of energy? Dr. Gilliam now uses the ‘EB’ Cellular Cleanse Therapy to pull toxins out of the body and enhance its ability to internally cleanse itself naturally, restoring and normalizing the body’s correct pH balance and energy levels. The therapy reduces unhealthy levels of toxins in your body from water (contamination, chlorine, and fluoride) and food (growth hormones, antibiotics, and additives). A regimen of ten sessions has proven to be most effective in this therapy.

Also, Dr. Gilliam uses a non-surgical approach called Decompression Traction Therapy, using the Decompression Traction System (DTS®), in the treatment of bulging and ruptured discs and pinched nerves in the neck and lower back. The DTS® computer-guided padded harness distracts and decompresses the spinal structures with precisely controlled tension to increase the flow of blood, oxygen, and nutrients that promote the body’s natural healing process.

Dr. Gilliam’s extensive and continuing training allows her to offer treatment for back, neck, arm, and leg pain, headaches, carpal tunnel syndrome, and much more. Additionally, her clinic provides physical therapy, pain management, clinical nutrition wellness, and acupuncture services. Can Dr. Gilliam’s skills help you? Her patients think so! She still serves patients from her first year in business, 1980.

Dr. Gilliam’s clinic is located at 1900 Sparkman Drive, Suite A, in Huntsville. For more information about her services, or to schedule an appointment, contact Dr. Gilliam’s clinic by phone at (256) 430-0021, by e-mail at drpaula@mchisi.com, or on the web site at www.gilliamchiropractic.com.

Top of page

Nationwide is On YOUR Side!

The Dallas Davis Insurance Agency, with Dallas Davis Graydon, Agent, is on YOUR side for your renter’s insurance needs. Nationwide renter’s insurance protects you and your personal property from events such as fire and lightning, vandalism, glass breakage, windstorm and hail, theft at residence, smoke, falling objects, and accidental electrical damage to appliances. "Your apartment is your home. That’s why Nationwide provides complete and affordable renter’s insurance to help protect you," Graydon says.

The policy also offers Loss of Use and Credit Card, Counterfeit and Forgery coverages, as well as helping with expenses if an accident occurs in your apartment. Clients can add more coverage for high-value property, such as jewelry, furs, guns, money, coins, and important papers.

Graydon works closely with apartment management, such as Lezley Simmons of Main Street Apartments on University Drive, to help residents learn about what they need, and to provide top-quality renter’s insurance. Lezley says, "There are more and more property management companies requiring residents to carry at least a minimum of $10,000 in Liability Renter’s Insurance." She continues, "Dallas has been extremely successful in educating our residents on the importance of renter’s insurance, and she brings a personal touch that is missing in many insurance agencies today. Dallas goes the extra mile to put together the best policy for her clients. In working with Dallas, Main Street Apartments hopes to better serve our residents and give them more peace of mind."

Graydon can tailor a policy or group of policies to fit your needs, goals, and budget. Dallas says, "At Nationwide we offer comprehensive insurance coverage at a competitive price. And YOU are our focus! You deserve faster and more convenient ways to meet your insurance and financial needs. We offer competitive rates and discounts, customer service anytime, anywhere, and on your terms, and responsive claims service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year."

For an agent that’s on YOUR side, contact the Dallas Davis Insurance Agency at (256) 716-1307 or visit them at 1807 Slaughter Road, Suite A, in Madison.

PHOTO: L-R: Jennifer Fuller, Amber Beaty, Lezley Simmons, and Dallas Davis Graydon.

Top of page

Improving the Quality of Life for Senior Citizens

Seniors LTC, LLC was founded by Brad Williams to help senior citizens protect and preserve their assets. This financial services company focuses on showing seniors how to increase their quality of life and gain peace of mind by taking control of their finances. Williams serves his clients by showing them ways to reduce or eliminate taxes on interest income and capital gains, and how to earn the best rates of return on savings without risking principle.

One of the newest trends for Seniors is using their Home Equity to enhance their life-style. This is done through a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), also known as a Reverse Mortgage. This is a HUD sponsored Government Program that allows people 62 and older to access the equity in their homes with no monthly payments. Williams can show you if a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage makes sense for you.

Seniors LTC, LLC is an authorized representative of Tarkenton Financial, which was formed by former Minnesota Vikings Hall of Fame quarterback, Fran Tarkenton. This wealth management company is devoted exclusively to helping seniors preserve their assets and eliminate financial stress. In advising clients, Williams uses the ‘Compass Plan’ (a Tarkenton Financial proprietary tool) to mathematically design retirement plans that show his clients how to avoid outliving their income. Additionally, Williams has earned certification from Ed Slott as an IRA Distribution Specialist and as well as the designation of Certified Senior Advisor.

Brad Williams presents his plans for assisting seniors during a FREE monthly workshop (and meal) and a one-hour, no-obligation consultation. Seniors LTC, LLC is located at 2315 Market Place, Suite A in Huntsville, AL 35801. Contact Brad Williams by phone (256) 536-3075, or by e-mail at Brad@SeniorsLTC.com.

Top of page

The Auction Industry is becoming very high tech and Fowler Auction is right there at the TOP!

Experience, professionalism, knowledge, and hard work make Fowler Auction & Real Estate the place to go to convert your property into cash through the powerful auction method of selling. Fowler Auction is a full-service auction business that provides services for residential and commercial real estate, personal property, and business liquidations, as well as commercial, industrial and farm equipment. "We bring buyers and sellers together in an organized, efficient, pleasurable, and stress-free environment, utilizing modern technology and innovative business strategies," says Mickey Fowler, CEO/President and Auctioneer. He adds, "Our success is built upon ethical and professional relationships with our clients."

Today, 90% of Fowler’s auctions are real estate, and they make the sale of your residential/commercial property a ‘stress-free’ process. "We handle every detail," says Betsye Fowler Spencer, CFO. "Over ninety-five percent of our auctions result in a sale." Mickey Fowler adds, "In a matter of hours, we convert your assets into CASH. One major benefit of a real estate auction is you KNOW when your property is going to sell, and you KNOW when it is going to close."

Mickey Fowler brings every client over 28 years of experience, education, and skill. Besides being one of only 20 auctioneers in Alabama with the Certified Auctioneer Institute (CAI) designation, Fowler also holds the professional certification of Accredited Auctioneer, Real Estate (AARE). He is skilled at ‘reading’ people, and gives his clients and buyers the best services ‘at the auction, at the moment’.

Shane Odom joined Fowler Auction as COO in November 2005, and his background in management and real estate development promises to enhance their services. With a degree in Marketing Management from UNA, and seven years with Delphi (two years in upper management), Shane has valuable experience in financial planning, marketing, and human resources. "I love to deal with houses, land, and people." Shane says.

Innovative technology is a big part of Fowler’s success. "We use ‘Live Internet Bidding’ (provided by Proxibid™) in REAL TIME," says Betsye. This cutting-edge program helps them serve buyers unable to attend on the day of the auction (such as commercial and residential investors) and sellers, such as business and government agencies. Betsye adds, "The combination of the ‘LIVE’ Auction and the ‘LIVE’ Internet Bidding create energy that only the auction method can produce."

In another use of technology, Fowler Auction now provides bidders with visual images of each parcel of land (with pertinent information on each parcel) on a large display monitor during the auction. "We recently conducted a $3.5 million auction where we utilized a Power Point display as a prologue to the auction, says Betsye. "We were featuring the key assets of each parcel of land, and it really got people talking before the auction!" She adds that their web site is also very user-friendly and active. Betsye states, "It is a non-threatening way to get a lot of information about the services provided by Fowler Auction & Real Estate."

For more information, call (256) 420-4454, or (866) 293-0157, or e-mail info@fowlerauction.com. The Fowler Auction Center is located at 8710 Hwy. 53 in Toney, just minutes north of Huntsville. Check out their web site at www.fowlerauction.com.

Top of page

Mr. Rooter’s on the job

Mr. Rooter is on the job for all your plumbing needs. "With over a decade of experience in handling residential, commercial, industrial and municipal plumbing needs, we at Mr. Rooter have seen it all…and we can fix it all," co-owner Steve Vinson says.

Steve and his wife, Suzy, started the business together in 1991 and service all of Madison County, as well as Athens and Decatur. The Vinson’s run the family business as a tight-knit group. "We treat everybody - employees and customers - like family," Suzy says.

The Vinson’s children, Joshua, 19, Valerie, 18, and Steven, 8, have all grown up in the business. Joshua, who has recently joined the family business, is working as a full-time apprentice, and will receive his plumbing license later this year. And Steven, also known as "Little Boss", has his own timecard and punches in and out when he rides on the pump truck.

The Vinson’s family values are part of their business philosophy, and ensure that all customers receive excellent service, no matter how big or small the job. "We have a lot of repeat business because we treat our customers right," Steve says. "We appreciate the smallest job from a home owner, to the largest job from a commercial/industrial client. All of our customers are respected and treated alike."

The Vinson’s Mr. Rooter franchise is very active and busy. They receive almost 200 calls per day. Those service calls are handled by their 42 employees (28 with a plumber’s license) driving 35 Mr. Rooter trucks. Additionally, six of the staff (including Steve) are Master Plumbers and Gas Fitters. Mr. Rooter uses cutting-edge equipment, employs the most knowledgeable and friendly technicians, and is available to meet your needs 24 hours a day, seven days a week. "Our mission is always to properly analyze a situation and treat it with the most up-to-date technology, equipment and products available in our industry," Steve says.

Mr. Rooter has recognized the Vinson’s nationally for their success and dedication to the North Alabama market. They have received "The Sales Leader of the Year" in communities with fewer than 500,000 in population for four years in a row, the "Mr. Rooter Franchise of the Year", the "Benchmark Award", the "Market Penetration Award", and the "Company Achievement Award".

Recently, Steve and Suzy earned the designation as a "One Star General" at the Top Gun Reunion for Mr. Rooter franchises in the Dwyer Group. The Top Gun award honors franchises that have attained their company specific annual qualifications and goals, as well as living by the Dwyer Group’s "Code of Values". These values include respect, integrity, and customer focus. "We professionally, personally and collectively believe in our ‘Code of Values’", Suzy says.

Mr. Rooter is a part of the Better Business Bureau, the Huntsville/Madison County and Decatur/Morgan County Chambers of Commerce, the National Apartment Association, the Onsite Waste Water Association of Alabama and Who’s Who for Executives & Professionals.

For all your plumbing needs, contact Mr. Rooter in Huntsville at (256) 536-9555, in Athens at (256) 233-3055, or in Decatur at (256) 306-0043. Mr. Rooter is quick-as-a-wink!

Top of page

Ivan, Katrina, Wilma…Who will you trust to make your insurance decisions for you?

Everyone used to talk about Andrew. No one could imagine just how easily they’d forget him. "What Hurricane Andrew did to South Florida was the benchmark for all storms to come," reflects Huntsville State Farm Agent Joe Demos. "I started my claims career just a few months after seeing the devastation Andrew caused," Joe adds. "Now, almost fifteen years later, all the stories about Andrew have been replaced…several times over. Names like Ivan, Katrina and Wilma have made Andrew seem like an old fisherman’s tale."

As Demos reminisces on how he was ‘led’ to his career as a State Farm agent, he relives the little moments that made him realize what a difference insurance makes in peoples’ lives. "One of the first claims I handled on my own was a ‘total fire’, a house completely burned to the ground," he recalls. "The policyholders met me at the site and brought their children. As we discussed their loss, we were all sitting there, crying. As I explained that everything they’d lost I was going to replace, our mood began to lighten up. In no time, everyone…even the children, were laughing and joking about their new beginning," Joe states. After handling a few claims that didn’t go quite as well, Demos began to see the difference an agent makes. "It’s remarkable how well people deal with losses when they are confident in their coverage…because they are confident in their agent," Joe comments.

Recently, Joe was called upon to relive his early days in claims when Katrina brought unprecedented damage to the Gulf Coast. "State Farm implemented our ‘Buddy Agent’ program, said Demos, "Under this program, agents volunteer to help out other agents who were affected by the storm, the worst in U.S history. I went to Pascagoula, Mississippi to help an agent whose house was gone, and whose office had taken on four feet of water. I got to be part of the greatest example of being a ‘Good Neighbor’ imaginable. The ‘Buddy Agent’ program helped the local agents and their team members keep the State Farm promise. We helped people restore the very fabric of their lives." He adds, "While many, many miracles took place among the devastation, most folks learned they had taken everyday life for granted. I got to learn all over again that it’s just too late after a catastrophe to understand how you were covered…or weren’t."

Joe’s philosophy has changed as a result of his time spent with the victims of Hurricane Katrina. "You don’t have to be a victim at all," Joe states emphatically. "It just takes a little time and an open mind, and you can take a proactive role in determining your options after something like a hurricane, tornado, car wreck, disability or premature death. Even better than planning for the worst is planning for the best," says Joe. He summed it up as, "In what we do, putting someone’s life back together after a claim is the daily norm, and no one’s better at that than State Farm. But helping people realize their dreams of sending a kid to college, retiring or securing income after an untimely death, that really gives me a sense of fulfillment…and we’re pretty good at that too!"

Joe and his specialized team members are available to help you determine what coverage or financial services you need…BEFORE another Katrina happens! Call them at 881-5655 or toll free at (866) ST8-FARM, e-mail Joe@JoeDemos.com, or visit them on the web at www.JoeDemos.com.

Top of page

Carey Rosenblum and the staff of Rosenblum Realty work together for their clients to provide comprehensive and professional real estate services. Carey states, "Our goal is to work toward a smooth, enjoyable, and hassle-free real estate transaction. In order for that to happen, it takes a true desire to serve, extensive knowledge, broad experience, and effective communications."

The staff of Rosenblum Realty and Carey Rosenblum (2004 Huntsville REALTOR of the Year and the Broker/Owner of this 49 year-old Real Estate company) knows the success of each real estate transaction is directly connected to the client’s satisfaction. "The staff at Rosenblum Realty would like to say ‘Thank You’ to all our clients and friends that we have had the opportunity to serve," Carey says. He adds, "We have a staff of good, dedicated people. When you combine that with professional training, our clients can’t stop talking about our staff!" The following testimonials reveal what people are saying about their real estate experience with Rosenblum Realty:

Honored Agent Philip Winburn: Client, Chris Wilkes, comments, "When I accepted an out-of-state position, and after owning our home in Madison for only a few months, we were concerned that we would not be able to sell the house without a loss. Philip Winburn was able to get the sales price we needed after only 22 days on the market! After we were under contract, Philip also saved us the time and expense of returning to Huntsville for the closing, by acting as our power of attorney. I highly recommend Philip Winburn to anyone considering a real estate transaction and appreciate what he and his office were able to do for our family." Philip Winburn also directs Rosenblum Realty’s Property Management and Rental Property Department. Philip’s experience and insight into the area’s rental market has been a huge asset to many investors. Detailed information about these services, and a link to review property for sale, are located at www.huntsvillerealty.net.

Honored Agent Linda Bole: Client, Jeffrey T. Couch, states, "At our very first meeting, I was impressed with Linda. She was very open and warm, and her manner was one of professionalism and steady efficiency. Linda communicated details clearly and effectively. One of the best things about her is how hard she worked to find a buyer and complete the sale of my rental house. At every step of the way, I felt that Linda was in control. To my pleasant surprise, she found a buyer after only three weeks on the market. The bottom line is that I would use Linda Bole again in a heartbeat, and I recommend her without reservation." Linda can also offer assistance with rental homes as she works with Phil Winburn in the Property Management Department at Rosenblum Realty.

For a team of professional REALTORS that will make your real estate transaction a success, contact Rosenblum Realty, located at 2314 South Memorial Parkway, Huntsville, AL 35801, (256) 539-9501, office@rosenblumrealty.com, or online at www.rosenblumrealty.com.

Top of page

Quality and Service are what we stand for as a Company

Over forty years after E.L. Dean and his brother started a plumbing business, it continues to grow. The family-owned and operated business has been called Dean and Son Plumbing since 1977. "I learned this business from him," says Dennis Dean, E.L.’s son, and the company president since 1992. Dennis’ boyhood friend, Phillip Guthrie (with a degree in Building Science from Auburn University), handles the commercial plumbing. They’ve come a long way since riding to jobs with Dean, Sr.

A full-service plumbing company, Dean & Son works on Residential, Commercial, and Industrial projects, working mainly with regional general contractors. "Our commercial and residential plumbing crews complement each other," says Dean. Dean & Son also does Remodeling and Service Work (‘punch list’ items, warranties, and sewer cleaning), plus septic tank and field repair.

"We have a great staff," says Dean, "and we have four employees that have been with us for over twenty years. Seven of us are Master Plumbers. What makes us different than other plumbers is our loyalty to our customers, the quality of our work and our direct and complete customer service."

The residential work at Dean & Son continues to expand with over forty new home jobs a month in 2006. They provide service for the top home builders in Madison County, including Alabama Heritage Homes, Covington & Company, Ken McDaniel Homes, Signature 3 Homes, and Woodland Homes of Huntsville.

Call Dean and Son, located at 229 Old Big Cove Road in Brownsboro, AL 35741, today, and let its family help yours. Contact by phone: (256) 518-9780, or e-mail: deanandsonplmb@aol.com.

Top of page

Because You Deserve It!

Jerry and Marsha Smith, owners of Perfect Turf Inc., provide commercial and residential customers with professional, year-round turf services ‘Because You Deserve It’!

Jerry Smith says, "Perfect Turf, a locally owned, professional turf care company, will create a grass roots system, and develop soil composition that results in a healthier, greener lawn. We do this through a customized lawn care program that features five, to eight applications throughout the year. These applications promote desirable grass growth and the eradication of weeds through comprehensive pre-emergent/post-weed control and slow release fertilizers." Perfect Turf will also regularly inspect the yard for midsummer insects and disease, and will advise clients regarding necessary treatments. And, Perfect Turf will provide spraying and/or soil injection treatments on trees and shrubs, annual core plug aeration that controls thatch and improves soil structure, over-seeding of cool season grasses, and deep-root injections to help older plants overcome disease, insects, heat and drought.

Jerry continues, "We tailor our services based upon the client’s expectations and the environment. And all of our work is done according to current Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards." Perfect Turf is certified to offer its clients a 52-week Guarantee on fire ant control, using some special products that are just phenomenal! GREAT results in eliminating fire ant problems within 48 hours have been obtained.

For homeowners without an established lawn, Perfect Turf offers hydro-seeding, a chemical matrix comprised of seed, fertilizer, and mulch that is blown onto the dirt. The result is a more weed-free, luxurious looking lawn that is more economical than a traditional sod lawn, and far superior to a seed and straw lawn.

Mention this Perfect Turf AD when requesting services and you will receive a discount off the first treatment on a Basic 7 Application Program. A pre-pay discount is also available on all programs.

Perfect Turf is located at 967 Cleveland Road, Huntsville, AL 35801. To become a Perfect Turf customer, visit their web site www.perfectturf.net, or call (256) 704-5687.

Top of page

The Smarter Way to Care for YOUR Body and Mind!

Owner and trained Clinical Aromatherapist, Kathy Gargis Olson, provides healthy body care products, as well as clinical aromatherapy for a smarter way to care for your body. Her business, HealthyScents, can develop specialized creams, lotions, and perfumes to fit all your needs. "I provide a wide range of custom-made body care products that include lotions, creams, sugar scrubs (body exfoliators), dusting powders (non-asbestos), lip glosses, perfumes, bath salts and body washes," Olson states.

HealthyScents products are made of all-natural carrier oils and butters that enhance the life of essential oils. Some of the oils and butters Olson uses are Camalina oil, Sesame Seed oil, Hemp Seed oil, Macadamia Nut oil, Hazel Nut oil, Cocoa Butter, Kokum Butter, and Shea Butter. "I select a medium based on each individual client’s skin needs, and then incorporate an essential oil blend to address their need," Olson says. "This is a very luxurious and gentle way to pamper your skin and improve the health of your skin."

Certified internationally by The Pacific Institute of Aromatherapy, Olson uses her training to provide Clinical Aromatherapy services. Clinical Aromatherapy relies on the use of natural essential oils from plant leaves, roots, berries, flowers, and other organic sources. She is skilled in using therapeutic grade essential oils to supplement, but not replace, modern medical care. "These essential oils…pure oils…synergistically complement the primarily synthetic-based medicines of Western medicine," Olson says. "This combination greatly enhances the effectiveness of both treatments."

"Remember, you only have the skin you are in, so make your skin the best it can be!" Kathy states. For a smarter way to care for your body and mind, contact HealthyScents at (256) 881-3443, info@healthyscentsinc.com, online at www.healthyscentsinc.com, or in the Villa Center, 11505 S. Memorial Parkway, Suite 117 in Huntsville.

Top of page

Simply the Best

Woodland Homes of Huntsville is celebrating its 10th anniversary of building top-quality homes in the Huntsville/Monrovia/Madison area. Builder, Mike Friday says, "Woodland Homes of Huntsville builds award-winning homes in unique neighborhoods. We are noted throughout Madison County for continuing to make advancements in innovative designs and for our utilization of cutting-edge technology. I attribute this success to a strong team of professionals and with an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction and total quality."

Phase II at Woodmill Trace, and Phase I of Indian Creek Townhomes are currently being launched. "Our town home communities are architecturally designed for low maintenance and carefree life-style," says Friday. "The designs feature yesterday’s classic attention to detail with today’s technology and convenience. These homes are perfect for the young professionals, single parents, and active adults." The Village at Overland Cove, located off Indian Creek Road, is a new development that will begin construction in fall 2006. The community will feature a maintenance-free concept, and will consist of townhomes and patio homes with an urban street design.

Madison communities are Phase I of Whitworth Farms ($280,000 to $360,000 homes), the Village at Walden Preserve ($200,000 to $300,000 homes), and Phase II of Walden Preserve ($300,000 to $500,000 homes). Walden Preserve features more than 40-acres of preserved wildlife area and home sites that back up against a wooded area with walking and jogging trails. According to Friday, "This community will focus on living with nature. It is very unique, because you’re living within the city limits of Madison, yet also living within a nature preserve. And, all of these homes are within walking distance of Challenger Elementary School and Liberty Middle School."

Other Woodland Homes communities are Shadow Brook located off Ford Chapel Road, convenient to Sparkman High School, Jeff Road, and Highway 53, and Bishop Farms, located off Old Monrovia Road and Bishop Road. "Phase III of Bishop Farms will soon be ready," states Friday. "This property has a timeless quality about it. The property has been passed down for generations dating back to the late 1700s when Ransom Fowlkes received a land grant from England." This community, with its stately homes, is convenient to Research Park and Highway 72 West.

Woodland Homes of Huntsville continues its tradition of being "Simply the Best". It has been awarded first place in the Madison County Fall ‘Parade of Homes’ for four consecutive years. Also, in recognition of five consecutive years of being one of the Nation’ s Top 100 fastest growing home building companies (ranked number 54 out of 100 for 2005), Woodland Homes of Huntsville has been inducted into Builders Magazine’s ‘Fast Track Hall of Fame’. "We have had a great past ten years, but our future is unbelievable," says Friday. "Our best stuff is yet to come."

Mike Friday and his team invites you to visit www.woodlandhomes.com for more information about Woodland Homes, or visit the Corporate Concept Home located at 7545-A Highway 72 West in Madison, open Monday – Saturday 10am to 6pm and Sunday 1pm to 6pm. Phone (256) 830-9000.

Top of page

Helping you gain commercial real estate

Russ Russell Commercial Real Estate has been helping clients gain commercial property through tax-deferred exchanges and leasing, and sales of property for almost 20 years. Owner Russ Russell, has been running his own business for 19 years in Huntsville and Madison County, and has helped numerous clients take advantage of the tax-deferred exchange.

By definition, a tax-deferred exchange is when a property is sold and the seller purchases or exchanges into another property of equal or greater value so the seller pays no Capital Gains tax. "This is the best way to not pay capital gains tax on the sale of real estate," says Russell.

Reportedly, as Huntsville’s first and only Certified Exchange Advisor (CEA), Russell helps clients take advantage of this tax law that has been part of the Internal Revenue code in Section 1031 since 1921. As a CEA, Russell earned this designation by completing strict educational requirements, such as intense classwork on the specialty of real estate exchanging provided through the American Institute of Real Estate Exchangers.

There are several reasons for clients to take advantage of the tax-deferred exchange laws, which include making a profit, increasing income, building larger equity, and avoiding paying the capital gains tax. Any commercial property can be considered with the tax-deferred exchange, such as land, office, retail, warehouse, apartment, rental houses, and mini warehouses. "The exchange does not have to be land for land or apartment for apartment. Clients can mix and match," Russell says.

In order to make the tax-deferred exchange successful, there are rules and time frames that apply. "The first is that the replacement property to be acquired must be identified within 45 days after you transfer the relinquished property," Russell says. "The second is that all replacement properties, which you will acquire, must be transferred to you no later than 180 days after the date you dispose of the relinquished property. Also, the seller cannot take constructive receipt of the sale proceeds of the relinquished property. This means the funds must be placed with a proper intermediary," he continues.

As a Huntsville native, Russell’s familiarity with the area gives clients an advantage when purchasing a place for their business or investment. "I know what will and won’t work," Russell says. "I know what my clients need to look for: primarily growth areas, visibility, and traffic patterns." Russell’s passion for this business benefits his clients, as well. He strives to provide them with the best solutions, while diminishing their risks and maximizing their profits. His business philosophy is simple: to be straightforward with the client. "We’re not necessarily the biggest, but we’re the best," Russell says.

For a list of commercial properties that Russell can help clients take advantage of with tax-deferred exchanges, visit www.russrussell.com, where the site is updated on a daily basis. Also, in the office lobby, they have a property brief center displaying information sheets for all listings. For additional information about the company’s services, call (256) 536-7777 or stop by the office located at 923-C Merchants Walk from 8am to 5pm Monday through Friday.

Top of page

The ‘Re-birth’ of the Heritage Club

The Heritage Club, founded by the city’s distinguished business leaders, opened in November of 1984 to serve the Tennessee Valley’s business, professional, cultural, and civic community. Its mission was simple: to provide its membership with a prestigious private club offering fine dining, in an ambiance conducive to business activities and social entertaining.

In recent years, the Heriatge club has re-focused on the basics of private club operations, and membership trends have improved over the past 2 years. This focus has created the prestige and excitement that once again have made the Heritage Club a source of pride in the community.

Much of the success is credited to the re-energized Board of Governors, and its pledge to ensuring a quality environment for membership. Each board member is committed to being a positive ambassador in the community and providing the club with strategic direction in membership, and the overall quality of ‘The Member Experience’.

In 2005, the Heritage Club added six new board members and enjoyed its best membership performance in 6 years. The new board members are Tommy Siniard, Greg Smith, Keith Bedsole, Jim Rountree, Malcolm Thomas, and Gerald Toland. These individuals have added the ‘new blood’ that the Heritage Club so clearly needed.

The addition of the Member Relations Committee (MRC) has been another key component to the recent success in both membership activity and member dining. The MRC, under the leadership of chairperson, Carolyn Rountree, consists of a group of volunteer members who have dedicated hours in planning events, as well as leading decorating activities

Everyone can see the ‘re-birth’ of the Heritage Club, and the pride in its members’ eyes. This process has been achieved through a dedicated and passionate team, striving to exceed each member’s expectations.

The Heritage Club, located at 111 Washington, will celebrate its 22nd anniversary this November. For more information on membership and services, or to make reservations, call (256) 533-0350, or visit the web site at www.heritage-huntsville.com.

Top of page

Fountain of Youth brings high service, good medicine, and cutting edge technology to the community. Finding great success with its warm, comfortable atmosphere and innovative, customized medical aesthetic procedures, Fountain of Youth is the fastest growing business of its kind in North Alabama.

Specializing in 57 treatments for beauty enhancement and age management, Fountain of Youth now proudly introduces its vision of ageless health and beauty to Madison and the surrounding areas.

Fountain of Youth maintains the highest quality medical and aesthetic care. In compliance with State of Alabama Medical Board guidelines, one of their physicians (Board Certified M.D.) personally performs all injectables (such as Botox, Restylane, Mesotherapy, and Sculptra), and a physician is on-site during all laser procedures. Whether you receive care and advice from one of the physicians, nurse practitioners, aestheticians, skin care consultants, massage therapist, personal trainers or make up artists, you can rest assured that you will receive excellence in both locations.

THERMALIFT (Thermage), the non-surgical facelift, seen on Oprah, CNN, Entertainment Tonight, and Today, treats facial wrinkles, acne scarring, and skin laxity. Results can take 15 years off, regardless of skin color. Thermalift is also performed after a facelift for a refreshed look. Fountain of Youth uses the fast tip multi-pass technique, reducing treatment time, while providing more dramatic results. Thermalift is excellent for body sculpting the abdomen, thighs, arms, and buttocks.

LASER HAIR REMOVAL is performed using the high-powered advanced Sciton Long Pulsed 1064 Nd:Yag laser. This laser is more effective and friendlier to all skin types and tanned skin with contact cooling hand piece, allowing extra protection and greater comfort, providing uncompromising safety and efficacy.

MICROLASER PEEL reveals smoother, more vibrant skin, with improved texture and tightness. Erbium laser precision provides consistently safe results for more than light chemical peel results without a prolonged healing process.

MESOTHERAPY, a non-surgical technique for fat and cellulite reduction, has thousands of practitioners throughout the world, with only a handful in the United States. This European fat burning secret delivers FDA approved medications and/or vitamins into the skin’s fat-rich mesodermal layer. Touted as the latest breakthrough for body sculpting for both men and women, mesotherapy is the only minimally invasive effective treatment to date for cellulite, a condition affecting over 90% of post pubescent.

Botox, a natural purified protein, which relaxes overactive facial muscles, has been safely used to treat a variety of conditions for more than 10 years. Hyperhydrosis or underarm sweating, is treated excellently with Botox.

Fountain of Youth also offers Photorejuvenation, Restylane, Microdermabrasion, Oxygen Facials, Specialty Massages, Sculptra, Ionithermie, Acne Treatments, and various other aesthetic procedures and prescription skin/health care products.

Trust Fountain of Youth with your beauty, health and wellness needs in both Huntsville and Madison: 2350 Whitesburg Drive, Huntsville, AL; 8121 Madison Blvd, Suite 101, Madison, AL. For your free consultation call (256) 650–SKIN (7546).

Top of page

Conquest GMC Western Star is Customer Driven

Owners Steve Vance and Dwayne Bush of Conquest GMC Western Star operate a large professional truck business that is focused on their customers. "We are truck guys. Everything we do is centered on our customers, because without our customers, we are nothing," Vance says. "We are a truly customer-driven business."

Vance and Bush bring years of experience in the truck industry to Conquest GMC Western Star. Prior to purchasing Conquest GMC Western Star, Steve farmed in Texas until 1996. At that time, he started working in the vehicle sales business, where he found his way to M & B Trailer Truck Sales in Birmingham in 2000. Dwayne began his career in 1985 as the owner-operator of one truck. He eventually expanded to directing 35 owner-operator trucks by 1993. He then started buying and selling trucks and related equipment before his path crossed with Steve’s when he purchased M & B Truck and Trailer Sales with Phil Mitchell in 1996. The team joined forces with the purchase of Conquest GMC Western Star in 2005.

Conquest GMC Western Star offers sales, service, and parts for new and used trucks and trailers. It can handle all truck needs for owner-operators, business owners, and fleet buyers from Class 8 down to Class 4 trucks. "Whether you have 100 trucks or just one, we want to service your truck, because every customer is important," Vance says. While the company mainly deals with Class 8 trucks, it also has an excellent inventory of parts for trucks in other class ratings. "We are driven by Class 8 truck sales, and our inventory is geared for Class 8 trucks," says Parts Manager, Neil Bodine. "However, we have excellent parts coverage for trucks in Classes 4 through 7. Conquest carries a parts inventory of approximately $1 million to ensure the part is in stock when the customer needs it."

With top-notch parts and service departments, Conquest GMC Western Star works hard to achieve the company’s goal of getting the customer’s truck back on the road in an efficient and timely manner. "We have a good team of technicians," says Steve Shoemaker, Service Manager. "With our work volume, they assist each other in completing the repairs. Our focus is getting the customer’s truck back on the road. This is a team attitude, not just a paper mission statement."

Conquest GMC Western Star’s service department also offers expanded hours of operation, which exemplifies the company’s focus on providing top-quality customer service. "We are evolving into the service department of tomorrow with expanded service hours, high-tech equipment, and improved processes," Bodine says.

"We treat each customer like that customer is the only one," Bodine says. "People are seeing and accepting that we value their business, and we want to be their commercial truck center." For customer-driven service, visit Conquest GMC Western Star at 13870 Highway 20 in Madison, call (256) 355-9212, toll free (866) 418-9212, or visit the web site at www.conquesttrucks.com.

Top of page

Exchange Club of Greater Huntsville* (NP)

Top of page

Where Enjoying the Great Outdoors is Just Like Being at Home!

For almost 20 years, Johnny Marshall, owner of Betterliving by SunSpace, has been making customers happier in their homes. Johnny started his company in 1986 with the assistance of his wife, Jane, and son, Dennis. In 1997, the Marshall family purchased the Betterliving Patio Rooms dealership for North Alabama, South Central Tennessee and Northwestern Mississippi.

Betterliving by SunSpace is known for its patio rooms, but has also become famous as the home of the Triple Pane Window. For any replacement window project, this window improves the home’s energy efficiency, as well as its look. Clients can see the difference in these Triple Pane Windows. They are made with the highest-performance, Low-E glass with argon or krypton gas. "Betterliving by SunSpace offers these top-quality home improvement products," Dennis Marshall says. "You cannot find a better product or a better company with which to deal."

"I am a shopper," admits Steward Schuerr of Huntsville, "and I have to say that the Betterliving by SunSpace prices for replacement windows were very competitive. I’ve already told several friends that if they need windows, this is the company to call. Betterliving is honest, keeps its word, and it has a good competitive price."

The Marshalls believe that the beauty of nature can be comfortably enjoyed with one of the many patio rooms it offers. Betterliving by SunSpace is proud to provide Three-Season Patio Rooms, Year-Round Sunrooms (now Energy Star Certified), and conservatories built in the United States by Craftbuilt Manufacturing. Craftbuilt Manufacturing recently partnered with NASCAR’s Fitz Bradshaw Racing Team as a sponsor of the #12 SuperCuts Dodge Charger in the Busch Series. In these patio rooms, customers can enjoy the great outdoors while indoors.

Betterliving by SunSpace’s commitment to the customer results in excellent service that customers appreciate. "I worked as a contract supervisor for NASA, and Johnny Marshall is the only contractor that I have ever dealt with professionally and privately who did what he said he would do when he said he would do it, and at the exact price he quoted," says Duron Crider.

Not only do clients see the difference with top-quality service, but Betterliving by SunSpace has also received top honors at this year’s annual dealers meeting as one of the most honored dealerships in the United States and Canada. For the eighth straight year, Betterliving by SunSpace was in the Top 10 dealers, and for the second straight year was the number three dealership when the total sales were compared to its population size. The window department, under the direction of Bob ‘The Window Man’ Strong, received the top honor, as Betterliving by SunSpace was named the number one dealership in the United States and Canada for replacement window sales for the second year in a row. In addition to the company’s recognitions, several employees earned individual honors as well.

For award-winning service with replacement windows, patio rooms, or retractable awnings, visit Betterliving by SunSpace at 503B South Jefferson Street, just south of the Courthouse in downtown Athens, AL, call (256) 233-3817 or toll-free at (800) 977-4151, e-mail at info@blpatiorooms.com, or visit the web site at www.blpatiorooms.com.

Top of page

  (NP)

A team working hard to fulfill its vision to be the best hospital in Alabama

Huntsville Hospital is celebrating its 110th Anniversary. It has become the most comprehensive healthcare facility available between Birmingham and Nashville.

This strong tradition and experience are the reasons why Huntsville Hospital provides services that can’t be found anywhere else in the region. The hospital is a national surgical center of excellence, an Alabama Regional Level III Trauma Center, and an Alabama Regional Neonatal Intensive Care Center. Plus, Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children is home to the only pediatric intensive care unit, pediatric ER and Kids Care, an ambulance for critically ill or injured children from the region who require specialized pediatric care.

In service to the patients from the experience of its healthcare professional, Huntsville Hospital is committed to being the best in healthcare. For example, it’s here that the region’s first cardiac program opened 25 years ago. Huntsville Hospital has one of the state’s leading cardiac programs, performing more than 13,000 heart surgeries and 100,000 cardiac catheterizations, which earns it the title as Alabama’s busiest cath lab.

Because Huntsville Hospital is a community hospital, it reinvests in the most advanced healthcare technology available. The hospital earned national recognition for surgeries such as peripheral vascular bypass, carotid endarterectomy, and back and neck. No other hospital in Alabama was named for these procedures.

Huntsville Hospital employees are the driving force in patient care, achievements, and quality reputation. Well-coordinated team efforts of 5,000 employees, of which almost 2,000 are nurses, support more than 610 physicians on staff at Huntsville Hospital. The team works hard to fulfill its vision to be the best hospital in Alabama and be recognized nationally for clinical and service excellence. That common vision and dedication means people can trust Huntsville Hospital for the best possible healthcare now and in the future.

For more information, call (256) 265-8170 or visit them on the web at www.huntsvillehospital.org.

Top of page

Making Sense of Investing

Turn to Edward Jones and Ryan Hicks for financial assistance with such things as retirement planning, education savings, estate planning, tax reduction strategies, and even business retirement plans.

Edward Jones, one of the largest privately held firms on the New York Stock Exchange, and its employees, have been providing financial services with corporate offices in St. Louis and offices throughout the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

As a part of Edward Jones, Ryan Hicks assists individuals in developing an investment plan to help them achieve their life-style goals. Ryan states, "We’re all striving to maintain a comfortable life-style. The difference is how each of us defines ‘comfortable’." Ryan continues, "Chances are, you have more than one financial goal and are realizing how difficult it is to save for all of them. It can be overwhelming to try to balance your goals, and therefore you may put off saving for them. With the right investment plan, it can be possible to live how you want today, and also save for your future."

For more information, contact Ryan Hicks at (256) 797-1700, stop by the office at 165 Chestnut Dr. Suite C, Madison, AL 35758, or visit www.edwardjones.com.

Top of page

Come see me 'In My Kitchen'

Ronda Springer invites everyone to come see her ‘In My Kitchen’. Springer says, "I have always enjoyed cooking, even for crowds. I got that love from my mother and grandmother. Here, In My Kitchen, those interests have converged. I will assist you in updating your existing dishes and kitchen accessories as the ‘spring cleaning and redecorating bug’ hits you. I will also special order those ‘hard-to-find’ items and provide one-on-one service for your decorating dilemmas. And, I will introduce you to some very tasty menu items you can prepare at home."

For spring and summer, In My Kitchen has expanded several product lines, including Viking professional cookware, Robert Rothschild foods, Stirrings drink mixers and glass rimmers, Sassafras Children’s Cooking Kits, Mary-Lake Thompson kitchen linens and accessories, and Jamaican Blue and Kona Gourmet Coffees.

The professional cooking classes under the instruction of CIA-trained Chef Paul Sanford of little Paul’s Barbeque, continue to be a success. "Of the first-time attendees, 85 percent sign up for their second class before the first evening is over," says Springer. "Due to this overwhelming response, we have now expanded into doing Private Parties...birthdays, supper clubs, and bridal showers that allow guests to come early and purchase gifts from In My Kitchen’s Bridal Registry." The cooking classes provide a first-class educational experience, featuring Chef Paul preparing the meal and serving it to the class. Springer states, "You will learn practical applications for products from In My Kitchen and get recipes on all food items served. Look for cooking classes for kids later in 2006."

In My Kitchen is a big promoter of local and regional entrepreneurs that produce foods or food-related products, including Wilford’s Cheese Straws in the Shoal, Uncle Jesse’s Fudge in Attalla, Betsy’s Cheese Straws in Millbrook, and Alabama Rich in Flavor, a cookbook by Katherine Helms of Decatur. In My Kitchen also features a ‘Monthly Themed Table’ to make party planning easier. "People will be able to view products and get excited about the holidays," says Springer. Upcoming themes include Graduation, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, plus the BIG Theme event, "Christmas in July 2006".

In My Kitchen has expanded its Children’s Cooking Kits. "These are GREAT ‘to do with Mom or Dad’ projects for the summer months ahead," says Springer. Themed kits (such as the Alien Pizza and Magic Wizard Cookie Kit that change color when cooked) are created and cooked by the youngest chef in your household. The kits include all ingredients and directions, and require minimal supervision.

In My Kitchen also offers unique, hand-made, locally-crafted Dinnerware and Decorative Bowls designed by the owner, Ronda Springer. Ronda received training in glasswork at the nationally-accredited Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in Gatlinburg, TN and, with her sister, Carol Roden, owner of "The Glass Crayon" (a company that creates kiln-worked glass items and stained glass designs), produces these pieces of art. "These items are simple, elegant glass pieces that are both timeless and one-of-a-kind," says Springer. "I love the fact that each glass item is extraordinary and unique. There will never be another glass piece exactly like the first." Interested clients can order custom pieces that will be designed and created to match existing china or decorative color schemes for different rooms of their homes.

In My Kitchen is one of the 35 vendors featured in the Interior MarketPlace, 5732 Highway 431 S, Brownsboro, AL 35741 (near Hampton Cove). Stop by Monday through Friday from 9:30am until 6pm, or Friday and Saturday from 9:30am until 9pm. For more information about their products, services, and cooking classes, call (256) 539-9113, or visit the web site at www.interiormarketplaceonline.com.

Top of page

As downtown Huntsville continues to expand and revitalize, so is the Huntsville Museum of Art. Keeping up with the exciting new changes surrounding Big Spring International Park, the Museum finds itself with new opportunities for change.

Already well-respected for its beautiful art exhibitions, the Museum can now boast its newest feature: Plaza in the Park. Visitors can spend an entire afternoon eating lunch or dinner at the new Palette Cafe, shopping the Museum Store or Signature Gallery, or taking an art class at the Museum Academy. And there’s always plenty to see in the exhibition galleries or new students’ artwork in the Children’s Community Gallery.

The Plaza in the Park is a diverse place for visitors, young and old, to enjoy. And the Museum wants to make sure families return time and again for a day of creative art and social fun.

The Museum is also thrilled with its exhibition calendar for 2006. Two exhibitions in particular, are already getting quite a buzz. Images from Ground Zero by Joel Meyerowitz runs August 20-October 22. This exhibition captures the emotionally compelling images of 911 and the terrorist attacks which forever changed this nation. As the only photographer allowed in Ground Zero, Joel Meyerowitz documents the heroic efforts of recovery crews, while also paying tribute to the lives lost.

Linda McCartney’s Sixties: Portrait of an Era runs November 5-January 14, 2007. During a profound era of music, motion and change, Linda McCartney captured the rock ‘n roll spirit of the Sixties. Seen through her camera lens, view memorable photographs of legendary pop-culture icons such as the Beatles, Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, and the Rolling Stones.

The Huntsville Museum of Art is located at 300 Church Street South in Huntsville. For more information, call (256) 535-4350 or visit the web site at www.hsvmuseum.org.

Top of page

Ending the Cycle of Child Abuse

Preventing child abuse and neglect is the number one priority of the National Children’s Advocacy Center in Huntsville. In 1985, U.S. Congressman Bud Cramer, then District Attorney, saw the need to create an efficient community system for protecting abused and neglected children in Madison County. The result was the opening of the first and only National Children’s Advocacy Center (NCAC). An entire campus currently operates on Pratt Avenue to provide safety, justice, and hope for victims of abuse and their families.

One goal of the NCAC is to effectively respond to cases of child abuse and neglect in Madison County. Professionals from the community work together to manage child abuse cases from the initial investigation to the final prosecution. Clinical services provide medical care and therapy to children and their non-offending caregivers.

The NCAC also believes that prevention is essential in ending abuse and neglect. SCAN (Stop Child Abuse and Neglect) is a personal safety program for children in all public schools in Madison County, Madison City, and Huntsville City. Other programs, such as Parents as Teachers and First Steps, reach first time or at-risk parents and provide them with necessary tools to raise healthy and safe families.

The NCAC educates professionals on effective ways of responding to, and preventing child abuse. This year, the training department held its 22nd National Symposium on Child Abuse. Professionals from across the world attend Symposium every year to receive professional certification and learn the latest in the field of child abuse prevention. Symposium contributes around one million dollars to Huntsville’s economy each year. Altogether, the NCAC training programs have taught over 60,000 professionals in the United States and in over 20 different countries.

For information on how you can help, visit www.nationalcac.org or call (256) 533-KIDS (5437). Together, we can end child abuse, one child at a time.

Top of page

Through the eyes of a child

When three-year-old John Kelley Taylor comes to Eagle Collision Center, it’s like an adventure with the ‘bestest’ big boy toys around!

In my last visit, I chatted with John Kelley, the son of Lori King-Taylor and grandson of Richard King, who loves going to work with Mommy. He says, "When Mommy brings me to her and Papa’s work, it smells like cookies, and I like warm ones bestest. There’s neat stuff to see. I can show you," he continues, as he heads towards the shop door to give me a tour. "There are all kinds of tools, but I’m not allowed to touch," he says with a frown, "and a ramp that’s good for climbing, but Mommy says NO! Bestest, I like to see the cars and trucks and Harwies," John Kelley says with a gleam in his eye as we wait for Papa to finish with customers.

"We fix up your car. We make it safe," as John Kelley simply states. He adds, "I was in accident and it made my tummy hurt, so I don’t like it when cars has a boo boo! When I’m five, I want to work in the shop," John Kelley confides. "Then, I will be tall and I can play baseball and fix cars. And, I’m going to ride a Harwey like Papa’s." He continues with excitement, "I play basketelball, too!"

As Papa finishes with a customer, suddenly John Kelley looks up and smiles. "Now, Papa! Can we wide the Harwey...pwease," he begs as he scrambles across the desk and leaps into Richard King’s open arms. Papa smiles. In a flash they are on the Harwey, and John Kelley squeals, "Fly like an eagle, Papa!" As they get ready to ‘fly’ off, Richard turns and says, "Y’all come see us, and see for yourself."

Take your vehicle to Eagle Collision Center at 29943 Hwy. 72 West in Madison, AL. Call them at (256) 325-5114, (256) 232-8008, or e-mail them at eaglecollision@knology.net.

Top of page

Legal Stability in a Growing Huntsville

Since 1993, the law firm of Ferguson & Ferguson has practiced in Huntsville. This brother and sister team of Randy Ferguson and Jackie Ferguson Graham exhibits excellence in both their professional and personal relationship. "We have complete confidence that, in the absence of either one of us, the other one is there and is able to handle any matter which might come up," says Graham.

Ferguson & Ferguson places a priority on talking with, and listening to clients. Ferguson states, "We take only a limited number of cases so we can personally deal with our clients, rather than handing a case and a client over to an associate." Graham adds, "We want to speak directly with our clients and assist them one-on-one. Communication is the key in our relationship with our clients."

Jackie Graham Ferguson received her law degree from the University of Alabama, and currently concentrates her practice in family law. "The most important qualities a domestic relations attorney can possess are frankness and honesty," she says. "Not every case should be taken to trial. An experienced domestic relations attorney will know when to try a case, and when to settle a case. I hope that my domestic relations clients would say two things about me. First, that I was always accessible to them when they needed me. Second, that I always gave them an honest assessment of their situation, whether they liked it or not."

Visit Ferguson & Ferguson’s new interactive web site, www.fergusonferguson.com, an invaluable source of information on state laws and insurance liability levels.

The law firm is located at 303 Williams Avenue SW, Suite 321 in downtown Huntsville. Contact them by phone (256) 534-3435, Fax: (256) 534-4339, or e-mail: jackie@fergusonferguson.com or randy@fergusonferguson.com.

Top of page

Connecting with Customers

Since 1999, Ken McFarlen, owner of Jade Communications, Inc., has been connecting with customers to provide them with top-quality telecommunications services. After taking an early retirement from Lucent Technologies, McFarlen took his 36 years of expertise in the telecommunications industry and started his one-man operation as McFarlen Telecom. In 2004, McFarlen Telecom incorporated as Jade Communications, named for his granddaughter, and now employs three technicians and an office manager.

What makes McFarlen successful is his dedication to his customers. Ken went to work for Southern Bell in 1964, where service and customer satisfaction were a must. R.D. (Pappy) McGee, one of Ken’s mentors, made sure he understood the importance of a job well done, and customer satisfaction.

Cathy Ottman, Owner of Alabama Temporary and Technical Services, has been a Jade Communications customer since McFarlen opened his business. "The service is excellent," she says. "If I don’t have my phones, I have problems. I trust Ken, and have the deepest respect for him, and he knows his business. If I have a problem, I always receive an immediate response."

Not only does Ken and his staff provide customers with personal and reliable service, but they also give back to the community. Shortly after Hurricane Katrina, Jade Communications donated a phone system worth $7,500 to The Rock Church for ‘Operation Restoration’. Operation Restoration was started to house Hurricane evacuees in the former Ramada Inn building (previously a hotel). Pastor Dan Santo, General Manager of the project, worked with Jade Communications to replace the old system with a new one. "If I called Jade Communications for anything we needed, they were there the next day," Santo says. "We really appreciated their quick response." Along with McFarlen, several other associates he has worked with the past 40 years, also donated their time to install the new system: Billy Paul Foster, retired from Bell; Paul Wayne Jones, retired from Avaya; and Dan Morgan, retired from Lucent Technologies.

McFarlen and staff service many local organizations, such as the Rescue Mission, CASA and the Huntsville Volunteer Center, as well as providing a 10% gift on paid invoices to local churches that Jade Communications services. Some of the churches include West Huntsville Baptist Church, St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, First Baptist Church in Madison, Locust Grove Baptist Church, Mountain View Baptist Church, First Presbyterian Church, First United Church, Weatherly Heights Baptist, and Cavalry Baptist Church in Hazel Green.

Jade Communications, an Avaya Partner, specializes in troubleshooting, repairing, programming, and installing Avaya telecommunications products, as well as installing Cat 3, Cat 5e, Cat 6, fiber optic wiring, and outside cables between buildings. As an Avaya Partner, this gives Jade Communications the opportunity to offer customers up–to-date technical support and leasing options. In addition to supporting Avaya products, McFarlen is certified on all Spirit, Partner, and Merlin products, including Merlin Legend and Merlin Magix, Definity, and most products manufactured by Bell Labs dating back to the late 1950s.

"I don’t just have customers, I have friends," McFarlen says. For a telecommunication company that connects with customers, contact Jade Communications at 6514 Sheri Drive in Huntsville, Phone: (256) 895-9514, Fax: (256) 837-2388, or kfmcfarlen@worldnet.att.net.

Top of page

Providing Timeless Beauty with Natural Stone

Juan Duenas, owner of Stoneworks of Alabama, has been making timeless pieces with natural stone for more than 12 years. “Stoneworks of Alabama provides natural stone pieces for countertops, wet bars, bath counters, fireplace surrounds, Jacuzzi tub decks, full slab shower walls and seats, door casings, and baseboards,” Duenas says. “We can build anything you want to beautify with natural stone.”

Duenas, along with his wife, Dara, opened the shop in 2004. A native of Huntsville, Juan graduated from the University of Alabama in Huntsville with a BS in Chemical Engineering, but his love was in the stoneworks business after working in the industry to pay his way through college.

Some of the stones that Duenas uses to create these decorative designs include granite, marble, limestone, and travertines. “Seventy percent of our work is with common stone,” says Duenas. “Much of this stone comes from Brazil, but we also use marble from Colorado and regional soapstone. Our exotic stones come from around the world – Russia, Italy and the Africa Range in Central Africa,” Duenas states. “One of the most beautiful natural stone jobs we have done recently is the complete installation of a kitchen counter made of mahogany blue-eyes granite. It was naturally embedded with semi-precious stones. It was sparkling!”

Over the past two years, Stoneworks of Alabama has increased its customer base, and in response, now provides even better service with new and efficient tools. “We are growing,” Juan says. “So we are purchasing new equipment that allows us to expand our services, maintain our high level of quality and increase production.” One piece of equipment that Duenas is purchasing is the Jaguar II Saw. “The Jaguar II is the best bridge saw made for stone cutting,” he adds. “It is the Cadillac of our industry. It will reduce our cutting time and allow us to accurately cut stone countertops for up to four kitchens a day.”

Juan also uses CAD software to design and display their stonework. He meets with all of his clients at their homes to go over the selection of stone and color, and to take measurements. Then, he fabricates the stone piece at the shop and completes the process by installing the countertops at the client’s home. Some of the contractors that Stoneworks of Alabama works with include Agape Builders (homes in the Edenshire development off Winchester Road), Atelier Homes of Huntsville (homes in South Huntsville), Hays Construction (patio homes in Hampton Cover), Harcon Builders (homes in Chapel Hill on Balch Road), Cumberland Construction (homes in Lake Forest on Zeirdt Road), and Dunlap Contracting (homes in Stone Mark in South Huntsville).

“Now that many local builders have used us, we are recognized as a company that does the job right, and on time,” Duenas says. “We receive many job referrals from top-quality contractors in the area and many homeowners see our work or talk to one of our customers and call us. I really enjoy working with stone!”

For more information on Stoneworks of Alabama, contact the company at (256) 325-0048; jgduenas@knology.net; or visit their shop at 116 Celtic Circle, Building C-2 in Madison.

Top of page

Where relationships and activities last a lifetime

Since 1977, owner Jerry Swanson has been actively building relationships with his clients at Alabama Orthotics and Prosthetics (AOP). As an above-knee amputee at the age of 16, Swanson knows the importance of fulfilling patients’ lives with top-quality care and custom-fit prosthetic and orthotic products. "We build relationships with patients, because we plan on serving them the rest of their lives," Swanson says. "I want them to feel comfortable, and know we will do everything to help them live as normal a life as possible."

Alabama Orthotics and Prosthetics’ three locations in Alabama are accredited facilities that combine old-fashioned care and techniques with new technology. The goal is to ensure a perfect fit with prosthetic devices such as c-leg, myo-electric arm, and mastectomy, as well as orthotics such as spinal bracing, compression hose, diabetic shoes, and arch supports. AOP specializes in pediatric and geriatric orthotics and prosthetics, in addition to treating patients with Polio, Cerebal Palsy, Multiple Scorosis, arthritis, diabetes, Muscular Dystrophy, and stroke.

With 10 certified prosthetists, eight certified orthotists, and five team members that are amputees, the AOP staff provide resources and education to help patients live with the life-changing experience of actively wearing a prosthesis or orthosis. "The Alabama Orthotics and Prosthetics staff exhibits a positive attitude with patients," Swanson says. "Our staff, particularly our practitioners who are amputees, lead very active lives, and we encourage patients to do the same."

And Mr. Jerry leads by example! Marketing Director Jonathan Berryhill states, "Mr. Jerry is a a very active person. Nothing prevents him from doing what he wants to do. He plays golf, goes hunting and fishing, and plays with his grandkids. He is always busy!"

Several active Alabama Orthotics and Prosthetics ‘Spotlighted Patients’ are Alex Koslow, a 15-year-old Huntsville High student; Derrick Bowe, a professor at Oakwood College; Donna O’Tinger, who works on her farm and in a manufacturing facility; and Lori Lewis, an active gardener.

Alex Koslow, an above-knee amputee, is a competitive skier and has been recruited by the National Sports Center for the Disabled to be on the Para-Olympic Ski Team. She also participates in regional beauty walks.

Derrick Bowe, an above-knee amputee, says, "I walk all the time and do more than 10,000 steps (about fives miles) every day. I receive very good, caring service from the staff at Alabama Orthotics and Prosthetics. The ‘proof of the pudding’ is in the way the leg works, and the leg works fine."

Donna O’Tinger, also an above-knee amputee states, "I do whatever I want to do. I got two legs from another facility in a year and a half, and I could not wear either leg. I came to Alabama Orthotics and Prosthetics, and Mr. Jerry made me a leg I could wear."

Lori Lewis, an AOP patient since age 20, enjoys the personalized service she receives. "When I came to Mr. Jerry, he took me in with open arms," Lewis says. "He still takes care of difficult problems of adjustment with my prosthesis."

Anyone needing a prosthetic or orthotic has a choice when it comes to where he or she will go for service. For relationships that will last a lifetime, and for support that will lead to an active life, contact Alabama Orthotics and Prosthetics in Huntsville at (256) 536-5625, visit 2100 Franklin Street, or visit the web site at www.alaop.com.

Top of page

Timbers Edge Properties Invites You to "Embark on a New Path"

Imagine a place where time suddenly becomes your ally. A place where there’s a surprising amount of room for you and your schedule. A place where you feel a genuine sense of belonging and growth. Imagine a place where each new day is an opportunity to reach out and take life further than you ever thought. If you believe in the notion that people are a product of their environment, then you are about to become content, enriched and invigorated.

We think of this inspiring place as part of the daily rewards you’ll enjoy by living in the Timbers Edge at Hampton Cove community. Eicher-Kirby Development presents this exciting new community, offering two and three bedroom ranch-style condominium homes, configured to create a strong and active social community. Timbers Edge Properties is scheduled to begin home construction this summer. Features of the community currently under progress include street paving, street lighting, curbing, ponds, a clubhouse, and two model homes. Susann Denson, Director of Sales and Marketing at Eicher-Kirby Development/Timbers Edge Properties states, "We are not selling condos. We are selling a life-style. At Timbers Edge, we will create an environment that encourages people to come together socially and find that genuine sense of belonging. There will be an on-site Activities Director to create and support both individual and community social activities," Denson continues. "And the on-site clubhouse will offer a swimming pool, an exercise room, and a large, inviting community room, all ideal venues for making new friends."

Timbers Edge at Hampton Cove is an EPCON Communities-affiliated development. Beginning in 1986, EPCON Communities began building single-story, ranch-style condominium communities. Now there are currently 200 EPCON communities in 26 states, with over 100 franchisees. The EPCON homes are so unique that U.S. patents and copyrights protect the plans. As Jane Childress, Real Estate Broker at Eicher-Kirby Development says, "Each of our spacious floor plans provides an array of design and construction features that meet the needs, desires, and life-styles of a maturing market. A ‘carefree life-style’ is supported by a site plan with lush landscaping, low density, and a community atmosphere that creates an intimate village."

Timbers Edge at Hampton Cove is built on 32 beautifully landscaped acres. The single-story, ranch-style designs combine four residences in an attractive pinwheel configuration. Each condominium features cathedral ceilings, which provide an openness of living space, an attached two-car garage, finished verandas, gracefully designed stone construction, and patented exterior European Country architecture. The upgraded amenity packages offer all name brand products and include optional cabinetry with a choice of stains or glazes, granite countertops, ceramic tile, hardwood flooring, plush carpeting, appliance options, plumbing fixtures, and closet organizational systems.

"Timbers Edge creates a life-style in a social community that directly addresses the needs and desires of Huntsville," says Kenny Kirby, development principal at Timbers Edge Properties. "We are very excited to bring Timbers Edge at Hampton Cove to this area because of its great location, proven methods of construction, top quality construction materials provided by national accounts/local vendors, and a full array of superior upgrades."

The Timbers Edge at Hampton Cove Sales Center is located next to the Interior Marketplace at 5720 Highway 431 South, Brownsboro, AL 35741. The Sales Center is open seven days a week. Timbers Edge at Hampton Cove is located at 1004 King Drake Road, Brownsboro, AL 35741. For more information please call (256) 532-1999 or (256) 512-0088, or visit the Epcon Communities web site at: www.epconcommunities.com.

Top of page

Who is Choose Life of North Alabama? Many people have never heard of Choose Life even though they have served the Huntsville community for over 24 years and have met the needs of more than 55,000 clients.

Choose Life is a faith-based organization and one of over 3,000 pregnancy care centers in the United States. Choose Life is somewhat unique to most pregnancy care centers because they receive a great deal of volunteer support from Huntsville’s medical community. The Choose Life mission is to strengthen families by educating people to make choices that will have a positive effect on their lives, their families and their communities.

Choose Life places special focus on girls and women facing unplanned pregnancies. However, they also have a men’s program that concentrates on helping young men become responsible husbands and fathers.

Choose Life has many outreach programs:

• The Pregnancy Test Center offers free pregnancy tests, information on pregnancy options, confidential counseling, and infant material assistance.

• Life Choices mentoring program is dedicated to working with and educating young mothers and fathers who are choosing to make lifestyle changes.

• Ultrasound Clinic offers free ultrasound to clients.

• Infant Adoption Awareness Program certified instructor educates clients, parents and social workers on the positive aspects of adoption. Adoption referrals have increased 30%.

• PureConnections abstinence-only education program is tailored for young people. They use a state approved curriculum appropriate for schools, civic organizations and churches. Donna Landers, Executive Director of Choose Life says, "Statistics tell us that every eight seconds a teenager in the United States will contract a sexually transmitted disease. For this reason, there has never been a greater need in our community or in our country for an abstinence only…no mixed message directed at both our teens and their parents."

• A Father’s Hands encourages men to take an active and responsible role as husband, father and mentor in their family.

• Healing Hands is an outreach to women who are suffering from the emotional trauma of a terminated pregnancy. Recognizing that in 2003 alone more than 10,000 women in Alabama terminated a pregnancy, Choose Life offers a compassionate response to women and family members in group and one-to-one counseling sessions.

Donna M. Landers, Executive Director; 220 Rands Avenue, Huntsville, AL 35801; (256) 534-1996, (256) 534-1994; donnalanders@chooselifehuntsville.org, info@chooselifehuntsville.org, www.chooselifehuntsville.org.

Top of page

Our job is to make your life easier!’

D. Mark Holman, CPA is not your ordinary accounting firm. Since its foundation in 1987, owner D. Mark Holman and his staff have been making clients’ lives easier with personalized services and expertise in the areas of tax, accounting, and QuickBooks.

"We are not a ‘stuffed shirt’ kind of firm. We believe that our work in tax planning speaks for itself," Holman says. "We also believe in providing personalized support to clients with our experience in tax and accounting services at an affordable price."

Not only can Holman save clients money, but also precious time in a busy world. "In this day and time, people are real busy," Holman says. "We can save you time and make your life easier by professionally streamlining your accounting system, providing tax planning, and handling any IRS issues."

Some of the services that Holman and his staff provide to simplify your accounting and tax needs include no-charge phone consultations; remote access through a secure Internet connection; pick-up and delivery of financial documents such as payroll, documents for monthly general ledgers, tax returns and other data; on-site help with computerized accounting situations; and assistance in developing computer programs to allow secure transfers of QuickBooks data between the office and the client. In addition to these specialized services, Holman has more than 25 years of expertise in analysis and advisement on tax law issues. This, coupled with his training and insightful personality, enables him to address complicated tax situations. The team at D. Mark Holman, CPA will do everything in its power to help clients be more profitable, pay less income tax, and plan for the future. If aggressive tax preparation or representation before the IRS is needed, Holman is the man for the job.

But more important to Holman than any other service offered is the access his clients have to him. He is available at all times and provides his home, office, and cell phone numbers in case a client is in need. While Holman is very capable to handle your accounting, he is also "No Stuffed Shirt". He is very comfortable to be around and this leads to strong trust and good communication between him and his clients.

Holman is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the Alabama Society of Certified Public Accountants, and the QuickBooks Professional Advisory Program. This involvement keeps himself and his staff up to date on the latest in tax information and enables them to provide top-notch service. Additionally, Holman is a member of the Huntsville/Madison County Builders Association. He has extensive experience dealing with builders and sub-contractors in Madison County. "We are a great asset in helping our clients secure construction financing and lines of credit," Holman says.

Count on D. Mark Holman, CPA for a "No Stuffed Shirt" approach to accounting. The firm is located at 200 West Side Square, Suite 100 in Huntsville. For more information on how D. Mark Holman can make your life easier, call (256) 534-1120 or visit the web site at www.dmarkholmancpa.com.

Top of page

"We’re your Home ‘Suite’ Home"

If you’re looking for "Home ‘Suite’ Home" while staying in Huntsville on business, GuestHouse Suites Plus is the place to stay. With new franchise ownership in 2005 by Highland Hotels, LLC, and a management contract with Crestmont Hospitality Inc., GuestHouse Suites Plus is updating its property and suites, and has added a new professional and customer-oriented management team whose purpose is to create an enjoyable atmosphere for each guest.

"Crestmont Hospitality, Inc. is very excited about the opportunity to operate the GuestHouse Suites Plus in Huntsville," Gary Dorschel, Crestmont Hospitality Vice President and COO, says. "Success at the hotel has been due to the team development efforts led by General Manager, Lori Bouffard." Dorshel adds, "Karen Griffith, our Director of Sales and Marketing, continues to address the challenge of the Huntsville market through a keen awareness of what the clients expect and a very ‘hands-on’ approach to insure satisfaction. The entire staff lives up to the Crestmont promise of delivering excellent service that exceeds the expectations of our guests."

"It is our management team’s philosophy to serve every guest with the highest level of customer service, courtesy, professionalism, and above all, gratitude for their business, "Griffith adds. "We have built a trusting relationship with our clients, and our clients deserve the best. That’s why they choose to stay with us at GuestHouse Suites Plus. With the BRAC plans on the horizon, GuestHouse Suites Plus is looking forward to lodging and assisting our corporate and military clients when they relocate to Huntsville. Whether you’re staying for a night or for a month, make GuestHouse Suites Plus your first choice in hotel accommodations," says Griffith.

GuestHouse Suites Plus is located at 4020 Independence Drive in Huntsville. For more information, contact Karen Griffith by phone at (256) 837-8907, by e-mail at karen.griffith@guesthousesuites.net, or visit their web sites at www.guesthouseintl.com or www.huntsvillesuitehotel.com.

Top of page

Where fresh CHOCOLATE is drizzled, sipped, and sliced

The Chocolate Café recently opened during the 2005 holiday season. This distinctive gourmet store that is located in the Food Court of the Madison Square Mall (5901 University Drive, Huntsville, AL 35806) evolved from the love of good, fresh CHOCOLATE. Lee Ann Pessoney and her mother, Linda Boswell, are the owners of the Chocolate Café, and Lee Ann manages the café.

Lee Ann began working in the candy business ten years ago and eventually worked her way up to management. She enjoyed the work but, never thought that she would make a career out of the retail candy business. Lee Ann stayed at the candy shop for three years, went to college, got married, had children, and then got back into the candy business. This time it has turned into a career. "I love CHOCOLATE, says Lee Ann. "I love serving fresh CHOCOLATE and unique food items. The Chocolate Café is truly a celebration of CHOCOLATE."

The Chocolate Café is a store that appeals to the quality and style-conscious consumer. Menu items include Triangle Truffles made with organic cream and 100% Belgian CHOCOLATE; hand-made, dipped-on-the-premises CHOCOLATE and caramel-covered Granny Smith Apples and CHOCOLATE-covered Strawberries; Sugar-free CHOCOLATE; organic Espresso featuring Ghiradelli CHOCOLATE syrups; organic brewed coffee and French Press tea; homemade-on-the premises cheesecakes, cakes, and muffins. The Chocolate Café staff also creates innovative gift baskets and gift trays for individuals or businesses. And, if you want it delivered, the Chocolate Café will deliver the gift basket or a customized catered breakfast of homemade muffins and gourmet coffee to your home or office.

The Chocolate Café is open Monday through Saturday from 10am to 9pm, and on Sunday from noon to 6pm. Stop by the mall and "take a CHOCOLATE break", or contact Lee Ann Pessoney at (256) 895-4224 or on the web at www.chocolate-cafe.com.

Top of page

David Richardson, owner of Mercedes-Benz of Huntsville and Regal Nissan, and General Manager Tony Reppucci, share a very unusual relationship within the highly competitive automotive marketplace. The fact that Tony Reppucci has remained General Manager for these dealerships for over ten years now speaks volumes in itself.

Mr. Reppucci shares the same values as owner David Richardson in that every customer is treated with the same honesty and integrity. "Whether the customer is buying a luxury Mercedes-Benz, an exciting new Nissan product, or just in the market for a quality certified used vehicle, every customer is important to us, and we’re always looking for the best way to put the customer’s needs first," states Mr. Reppucci. "That’s why we’ve recently changed to an all non-commissioned sales staff. The motivation of our sales staff is not how much can be made off a deal, but rather how to make it work for the customer. Even for those with less than perfect credit, we find a way to get them into a vehicle that works for them," Reppucci continues. "We take the time to evaluate every customer’s individual needs to insure that when they purchase their new or used car, whether it’s a luxury vehicle or their first vehicle, they leave as Regal Nissan or Mercedes-Benz of Huntsville satisfied customers."

If you know Tony Reppucci, you also know that the slogan You get the right vehicle, at the right price, you’ve got my word on it is more than just a play on words. These words are exhibited daily among the entire Regal Nissan and Mercedes-Benz of Huntsville team. From sales, to service, to financing, expect nothing short of their best.

Reppucci says, "People who have been driving our competitors’ vehicles for years are making the switch because of the value of our vehicles. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a luxury vehicle or a work truck, EVERY customer is looking for the BEST value and selection. That’s a smart consumer."

Smiling, Mr. Reppucci adds, "Our focus for 2006 is to out-STOCK, out-SELL, and out-SERVE the competition. That makes for a lot of happy customers and that’s what we’re all about."

Take a look at the exciting new line of vehicles at Mercedes-Benz and Regal Nissan of Huntsville located at 6520 University Drive in Huntsville, Ph: (256) 837-5752, or visit them online at www.mercedesbenzofhuntsville.com and www.regalnissanofhuntsville.com.

Top of page

A new Huntsville-based nonprofit group is working to strike out Lou Gehrig’s disease.

Formed in late 2004, the ALS Association of Alabama is rapidly ramping up its services to help people suffering from the deadly neuromuscular disease formally called amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. In the past few months, the fledgling organization hired Deborah Kohlhase as Executive Director, opened an office near Slaughter Road, and expanded its territory to include metro Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, and Anniston (30 counties in all).

With a mission to give help and hope to ALS patients, families and caregivers, ALSA-Alabama’s free services include:

• A monthly support group meeting at Crestwood Women’s Center on Chateau Drive, held the first Wednesday of every month at 6:30pm.

• A "loan closet" with wheelchairs and other durable medical equipment that may not be covered by insurance.

• Building wheelchair ramps and mechanical lifts for patients who lack the strength to get out of bed on their own.

• Renovating patients’ bathrooms with raised toilets, wider doors, shower wands, and safety bars.

Patient service grants are made on a first-come, first-served basis for people who have been given a definitive ALS diagnosis.

ALSA-Alabama is part of the national ALS Association, the only nonprofit organization dedicated solely to fighting Lou Gehrig’s disease. There are an estimated 186 ALS patients in the northern half of the state, and about 30,000 nationwide. To help raise money to cover the cost of its services, ALSA-Alabama is planning two ‘Walk to D’Feet ALS®’ events in 2006: in Birmingham May 6, and in Huntsville September 30. Several other fund-raisers are also in the works, including a wine tasting dinner and auction, the second annual Jimmy McDonald Memorial Golf Classic at Hampton Cove, and the second Heel & Crank Duathlon.

For more information on ALSA-Alabama’s services, call toll free at (800) 664-1242 or visit the web site www.ALSAlabama.org. Contact ALS Association of North Alabama: Deb Kohlhase, Executive Director, Cell: (256) 509-5955; Fax: (205) 449-9330; E-mail: debk@ALSAlabama.org.

Top of page

Health Establishments at Local Schools, Inc. (HEALS) is celebrating the opening of its fifth clinic, located in Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School. HEALS clinics provide free comprehensive medical and dental care, and social services to students and their siblings. HEALS takes referrals from all schools in Madison County.

HEALS is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit agency incorporated in 1998 when a local pediatrician, a nurse practitioner, and concerned parents noticed poor student health was affecting academic performance. They collaborated with Huntsville City Schools and Huntsville Hospital to open the first clinic in 1999. HEALS has since grown to five medical clinics and one dental clinic, treating more than 5,000 patients, and had over 40,190 patient encounters by the end of 2005. The school-based clinics positively affect attendance and academic performance, and help decrease use of the emergency room for primary care.

Employees and volunteers work together to improve the well-being of economically and socially disadvantaged families. HEALS’ goal is to break the cycle of poverty by keeping kids healthy and in school, providing parents with the tools they need to make better life decisions, and becoming a change agent in the lives of Madison County’s underprivileged poor.

HEALS is recognized nationally for outstanding work in this community. It has become a model to communities all over the country who want to start a school based health care system or improve an existing system. The multi-discipline approach is what makes HEALS so successful.

The annual fundraiser, ‘Kick Up Your HEALS For Kids Health’, is Thursday, May 4 at the Furniture Factory. Tickets are $25 per person and go on sale in March. You’ll get great food, beer, wine, plus an opportunity to win prizes and participate in a silent auction. For more information, contact Jennifer at (256) 428-7488 or visit www.orgsites.com/al/heals.

Top of page

THE THING ABOUT SPRING!

The thing about spring is everyone feels renewed. The air is a little clearer, the world is a little greener, and people seem to smile a little more. Nowhere is this truer than at Burritt on the Mountain – A Living Museum. Spring is the time the sheep are sheared, the Historic Park houses are cleaned, fences are mended, and the mule plows the field. Burritt on the Mountain, chosen as one of the 2006 Rand McNally Best of the Road™ Editor’s Picks, is an eclectic museum, complete with Dr. Burritt’s mansion, a historic park and a network of mountain trails.

Spring Farm Days, in the month of April, is a festival when the staff and volunteers at Burritt demonstrate the activities of a farm waking up from a dormant winter to the freshness of springtime. Visitors marvel at Joel’s dexterity during the shearing of the sheep. Mounds of wool are gathered for the carding, spinning, dyeing and weaving that goes on all year by the interpreters. Susie the mule is harnessed for the task of plowing the earth to prepare for the garden that will grow throughout the summer to provide food. The aroma of freshly turned earth is pungent. Rail splitting, whitewashing, and spring cleaning are opportunities for visitors to get a bird’s eye view of some of the tasks that our ancestors participated in, now that the warmer weather allows, and hands-on activities allows them to feel a part of it all. The barnyard may be the happiest place of all. Babies of all sorts are snuggling with their mothers. Lambs, goats, and bunnies are a few of the cuddly critters that bless our barn. Throughout the coming months, visitors return to see the progress of some of the babies that stay at Burritt. Some of the babies will return to the farms that loaned them to Burritt for this special time.

Spring is indeed a special time, which leads to summer. Summer too, is a special time at Burritt on the Mountain. But that is another story. Every season is a special time at Burritt on the Mountain – A Living Museum where, like nature, art, and history, they are embraced and celebrated. For more information on Burritt on the Mountain visit www.burrittmuseum.com or call 536-2882.

Top of page

Imagine, if you will, this scene from Alabama history… Outside, the trees are still in the heat of an Alabama summer… passersby pause briefly in front of the immense hall to whisper to each other and move on… fists pound the tabletops… the crack of the gavel echoes through the great room as the president calls the convention to order. It’s July, 1819. Forty-four men have gathered inside a furniture maker’s workshop to draft a document of statehood. It is Alabama’s first constitution. The place is Constitution Hall.

Today, the shade trees continue to watch over a proud Constitution Village, the Birthplace of Alabama, with its four main buildings and seven outbuildings filled with a collection of early 19th century southern furnishings. The Village defiantly resists the passage of time as costumed guides recreate life as it was in the early 1800s… spinning wool, dipping candles, crafting furniture, printing on the old press, and tending to the garden. Step inside the picket fence and step back in time to an important part of Alabama history in the heart of downtown Huntsville.

March through October, the Village is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10am-4pm, for field trips and walk-in visitors. Alabama Constitution Village also houses Downtown Grounds Coffee (open Monday-Friday from 7am-3pm; Saturdays 10am-3pm) and The Confectionary Shop, a unique gift shop offering a handsome selection of handcrafted goods, herbs, spices and freshly baked treats and old-fashioned candies.

For more information about visiting Alabama Constitution Village, please call 564-8100.

Top of page

VBC South Hall; Tuesday, April 11, 2006; 6:00 p.m.

This yearly Christian event has been celebrated in Huntsville, Alabama for the past 20 years. Brotherhood and deliverance are key themes. Eating together is the universal gesture of love and acceptance in every culture, and sitting together at the table of the Lord demonstrates this common union and oneness. After all, it was Jesus who prayed: "My prayer for all of them is that they will be one, just as You and I are one, Father – that just as you are in Me and I am in You, so they will be in us, and the world will believe you sent Me." (John 17: 20-21)

Believers from many streams of the Christian faith have celebrated together at this dramatic demonstration of how Christ is revealed in the Hebrew Seder (Passover) meal. Jesus said, "As often as you do it, you do it in remembrance of me." (1 Cor. 11:25). Since He died on Passover, this day has special communion significance.

The emphasis this year will be education. Dr. Marvin Wilson, professor of Biblical and Theological Studies at Gordan College, Wenham, MA, will be the special guest speaker. He has served as an Old Testament translator for the New International Version of the Bible. Dr. Wilson authored the book Our Father Abraham: Jewish Roots of the Christian Faith, which was singled out by Christian Century magazine as ‘an all-time best seller in the field of religion’. He will share the greater significance of this celebration in Huntsville.

The appointed feasts of the Lord were times when no one appeared before Him empty handed (Ex. 23:15, Deut. 16:16). An offering of $10,663 was given to the Huntsville Police Department last year just as God commanded His people to honor and seek the prosperity of the city where they sojourned (Rom. 13: 1-6, Jer. 29:7). This principle will again be demonstrated with a city-wide offering unto the LORD to bless the city.

The banquet is $15, which goes entirely for expenses. The desire is for everyone to attend. Therefore, there is a sponsorship program for those who may need assistance to attend.

Seats are limited, so call for tickets early (256) 882-7651. For more info or to see the descriptions and pictures from previous Passover celebrations, go to http://www.awarenessministry.org.

Top of page

Face-lifts do a lot for old buildings, as people traveling along the Parkway in South Huntsville can vouch for. Grace Lutheran Church at 3321 South Memorial Parkway, has been undergoing dramatic changes for the past couple of years, starting with new sanctuary windows, and progressing to an enlarged narthex, a state-of-the-art Nursery/Mommy’s Time Out Center to a finally-finished new Family Life Center. Things are really happening at Grace Lutheran – on the outside.

Where it really counts, though, is what is offered to the community on the inside. Grace Lutheran offers Huntsville and surrounding communities a Spirit-filled sanctuary for worship, a top-notch parochial school that has classes and curriculum for pre-school through eighth grade, staff that cares for long-term and immediate needs, and a whole body of believers in Christ that responds to natural calamities, such as Hurricane Katrina.

If you’re just coming into Huntsville for the first time, or driving down the Parkway checking out the skyline, you’re welcome to stop in and check out Grace! Bible studies are offered on Sunday for adults and children. Bible studies and prayer opportunities are available during the week. Three styles of worship are offered, from formal to less-formal on Sunday mornings, and there is a special Bible study/praise fellowship held on Saturday evenings. Korean Presbyterian services/fellowship opportunities are also held at Grace. After the current "40 Days of Purpose" is completed in April, programs will begin for children of all ages, starting at toddler age through eighth grade (GIFT/FAITH JOURNEY). Youth groups for junior high through high school are gearing up for mission trips, and many other programs to get you ‘plugged in’ at Grace and to God are available.

Check out the web site at www.gracelutheran-hsv.org for more information. In the mood for devotions to begin your day? Try www.totallyawesomegrace.com.

Top of page

Accent Your Windows with Style

This spring, accent your interior windows with decorative window treatments from Accent Window Blinds. Owner Greg Owen has been providing North Alabama businesses and residents with top-quality window treatments at discounted prices for the past two years.

Owen, who bought and took over the business in 2004 from a former partner, has four years of experience in the industry. Some of the window treatment products he offers include two-inch faux and wood plantation blinds, plantation shutters, honeycomb or cellular shades, vertical blinds, woven wood, Roman shades, arches and aluminum miniblinds.

"One of the best selling products I offer is the plantation shutters," Owen says. Plantation shutters are interior shutters that fit on any standard window, come in bi-folds, double hung, and many custom shapes. They also feature an antistatic coating that reduces color fading, require 75 percent less cleaning, and have the additional benefit of increasing energy efficiency by 30 percent.

Some of the businesses that Accent Window Blinds has worked with include a reconditioning/restoration project of a middle school in Decatur, and an 11-story office building in downtown Huntsville, which is the former Huntsville Times building. "My biggest accomplishment was completing the renovation project at the school in Morgan County, which consists of 30 classrooms and a large library before the deadline," Owen says.

Accent Window Blinds also provides discounted rates to local organizations, such as a small church in Madison County where Owen is installing plantation shutters. One upcoming charity project includes working with a Parrish in Louisiana to rebuild its neighborhood after Hurricane Katrina.

For accent window treatments that bring versatility and style to your windows, contact Accent Window Blinds at 468-7811, owen@accentwindowblinds.com, or visit the web site at www.accentwindowblinds.com.

Top of page

Complete Real Estate Services from Rob Abercrombie of Coldwell Banker Premier

Realtor Rob Abercrombie of Coldwell Banker Premier, provides clients with a complete package of real estate services when buying or selling a home. Abercrombie joined Coldwell Banker Premier in May 2005 to grow as a real estate professional and to sharpen his industry skills after selling new construction homes in the area.

As a part of the Coldwell Banker Premier team, Abercrombie offers his clients many services, from buying and selling a home to finding lenders, handymen, and contractors. "We specialize in helping clients sell their current homes and buy another one in the Huntsville area, as well as assisting with relocating to another city," he says. "We take great pride in knowing our market and staying abreast of the economy and its impact upon the housing market, such as the BRAC movement. It’s important for us to convey our knowledge in order for clients to feel confident in their decision to buy or sell with us."

Abercrombie and the Coldwell Banker Premier staff listen to each client, focus on finding the right home for their needs, and are helpful through every step of the transaction process. "We all work together to help each transaction flow smoothly from the moment an agreement has been reached until the papers are signed at closing," Abercrombie says.

One of Abercrombie’s premier listings is a 420-acre farm with a 4,000 square-foot home, a log cabin for guests, and a 60-foot by 260-foot barn located in Arab. To view this property online, go to www.coldwellbanker.com.

For a Realtor that offers the complete package of real estate services, contact Rob Abercrombie of Coldwell Banker Premier at (256) 652-9500, rabercrombie@knology.net or visit www.robabercrombie.com.

Top of page

Alabama Landscape Curbin’ Offers Clients ‘Curb Appeal’

Owner James Askew of Alabama Landscape Curbin’ (ALC), provides clients with stylish concrete curbing that adds appeal to any yard, lawn area or commercial property.

After seeing the concrete curbing at a friend’s new home in Atlanta, James became interested with the industry and decided to open his own business here in North Alabama. ALC concentrates on the extruded concrete edging aspect of the landscaping industry. Concrete curbing can be used around trees, ponds and waterfalls, mailboxes, driveways, and especially between grass and flowerbeds providing an excellent and attractive grass barrier. "Since concrete curbing is seamless, there are no gaps for weeds or grass to grow between," James says. "The curb is six inches wide by up to eight inches high on the backside that slopes down to two inches on the front."

The design flexibility allows curves, turns and contours for any layout of any landscape. James provides eight different patterns that come in 30 different colors to enhance any brick or siding. He adds a fiberglass mesh in all concrete and expansion joints every three feet, which adds stability and prevents cracking.

ALC is fully licensed, insured, and offers a guarantee on his products. "Some of my staff have been with me since day one," James says. "I am completely confident with leaving them on site knowing they will take care of the client just as I would."

"When I first started the business people were not familiar with my product," he says. "After five years, we have our product scattered all over North Alabama and Tennessee. The more curbing we put down, the more it is seen and being asked for. Now we are having builders and developers calling us. This is opening up exciting new doors."

To enhance your curb appeal with colored, decorative concrete curbing, contact Alabama Landscape Curbin’ at (256) 729-9454, info@alcurbin.com or visit www.alcurbin.com.

Top of page

We’ll meet you at The Wharf

"We’ll Meet You at The Wharf!" will soon be heard across Alabama. Located along the shores of the Intracoastal Waterway in Orange Beach, Alabama (less than two miles from the white sand beaches of the gulf coast), The Wharf has something to offer everyone. The first phase of this 220-acre resort development at the foot of the Foley Beach Expressway, is scheduled to open in 2006, welcoming high-class entertainment, dining, and shopping to the Orange Beach/Gulf Shores area.

Along Main Street, national retailers, locally-owned stores, and restaurants will thrive in an upscale village atmosphere under the South’s largest Ferris wheel, offering visitors a splendid view of The Wharf and its surroundings. Colorful shops, restaurants, and cafés will also line the lively boardwalk, running the length of the half-mile-long Marina. With 210 long-term slips, some accommodating yachts up to 100 feet in length, 35 transient slips, three fuel docks, round-the-clock security, and a professional, enthusiastic staff, the Marina will be one of the largest and most modern facilities in the region (and is accepting slip applications now).

Luxury vacation rentals will be available in all four condominium towers overlooking the Marina, the Intracoastal Waterway, or the lushly landscaped members’ only exclusive amenities area that will boast several beautifully designed pools, oversized hot tubs, and an open-air bar and grill, accessible only to members of the Armada Club. Benefits include access to the amenities area and the Outfitter’s Center, a gathering place for outdoors enthusiasts looking to fish, kayak, canoe, or just relax at the Bespeckled Trout, a casual bar and grill. An on-site naturalist will conduct guided tours of the 60-acres of natural area throughout the property, or guests are free to explore by bicycle. In addition, an Aveda life-style resort spa will be located in the Boggy Point condominium, offering the latest in restorative treatments, products and services. For entertainment, a 10,000-seat outdoor amphitheater at The Wharf will attract national acts, and adjacent to it, a smaller, covered pavilion will host more intimate events.

The Wharf is being developed by AIG Baker Shopping Center Properties, L.L.C., headquartered in Birmingham, AL. AIG Baker specializes in ground-up development, acquisition, leasing, and management of retail centers nationwide. Backed by American International Group (AIG), they have developed more than 20 million square feet in 17 states since 1993.

The Wharf has experienced rapid progress with the near-completion of the 15-screen Rave Motion Picture Theater, the first building of the Levin’s Bend Condominium (two floors of shops and restaurants and ten floors of condo space), and the Main Street and Wharf Parkway retail area. Most exciting is that the Ferris wheel has arrived from Italy and will be operational for the Memorial Day festivities. Look for the release of real estate sales throughout 2006. Many properties are available now (Boggy Point Special Reserve and Condominium hotel units at The Inn at The Wharf), and some will be available soon (Marsh Bridge, Long’s Bayou).

Upcoming events at The Wharf include the Memorial Day Grand Opening of the Entertainment Complex; a Hank Williams, Jr. concert (May 27; the 'Fourth at The Wharf', a spectacular fireworks display synchronized with the Mobile Symphony’s patriotic performance (July 4).

To learn more about The Wharf, call 1-877-WHARFAL (942-7325), or visit www.thewharfal.com and sign up for the e-mail club to receive the latest news from this continually growing resort destination.

Top of page

The Huntsville Stars - Fun Times For All

Looking for a night the whole family can enjoy? This spring and summer season, head over to Joe Davis Stadium for fun with the Huntsville Stars minor-league baseball team.

General Manager Tom Van Schaack has been with the Stars, an affiliate team for the Milwaukee Brewers, for more than a year, and focuses on providing an event that fans and family can enjoy. "The number one goal is for us to provide an affordable family atmosphere where everyone can have fun whether we win or lose the game," Van Schaack says. "It’s a great night out for families and fans, and we want them to come back, time after time."

Van Schaack, a Central New York native, comes to the Stars with 22 years of experience in the sports management industry. He first started in the business in 1986 and has worked for several baseball organizations, such as the Richmond Braves, Watertown Indians, Sarasota White Sox, Duluth Superior Dukes, Syracuse Chiefs, and Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Red Barons.

As General Manager, he oversees the day-to-day operations of the team and of the baseball facility. Through the years, Van Schaack has been involved in many sports-related projects. "Some of my great accomplishments have been in creating three successful start-up organizations from the ground up," he says.

The Stars regular season starts April 6 and runs through September 4. Some of the events happening at the Stars games include fireworks after every home Friday game, different Saturday specials with giveaways such as bat night, and weekly specials such as the Two for Tuesdays and the businessman’s special.

For a fun-filled night of baseball with the Stars, contact the office between 9am and 5pm at (256) 882-2562, go online at www.huntsvillestars.com, or e-mail at info@huntsvillestars.com.

Top of page

Anything But Ordinary

One thing that you will quickly discover about The Clowers/Wilburn Group at Smith Barney, is that this group of investment professionals is anything but ordinary. Originally formed by Jason E. Clowers and John C. Wilburn, and recently expanded to include Hope M. Wisner and David L. Little, this wealth management team is determined to help solve many of the inherent problems of the traditional brokerage relationship and corresponding business model for their valued clients. As Jason Clowers explains, "I was a customer of this industry for many years before working in it, and was always uncomfortable with the inherent conflicts of interest and lack of sophistication involved in the process of investing such important assets. To be specific, it seems odd for an investment professional to be positioned as a salesman. Imagine your family physician being compensated based on how many drugs he/she can prescribe, and some drugs paying more commission than others," Mr. Clowers says.

It was this discomfort that drove Mr. Clowers to join the investment industry following MBA School. Jason states, "I knew there had to be a better way, and I was determined to find it." Smith Barney’s open architecture and industry-leading Consulting Group division allow his team the platform capability necessary to deliver what Jason describes as a one-of-a-kind client experience based on a cost-effective institutional approach to financial planning and asset management.

Working with The Clowers/Wilburn Group, a client follows a disciplined process that begins with a genuine effort to get to the heart of what really matters. As Jason explains, "Initially, we are in a period of discovery, whereby we are trying to learn as much as possible about our clients and what makes them who they are...their value system, priorities, and ambitions." This discovery step is the most important of all, as it allows for the proper establishment of acceptable risk parameters, performance targets, and cash flow/liquidity requirements. Armed with this critical information, the team then develops an investment policy statement (IPS), much like institutions do, that outlines, among other things, an asset allocation strategy most appropriate for helping achieve the client’s financial objectives within a comfortable level of risk. The financial plan and corresponding investment strategy are then carefully implemented and rigorously monitored. The monitoring step is the final step in the process, but one that is ongoing, whereby selected investment managers are constantly scrutinized, the asset allocation is regularly rebalanced, and the client is apprised of progress via a quarterly review meeting.

As John Wilburn puts it, "There is a reason why pension funds, endowments and foundation assets are managed the way that they are, and there is no reason why an individual investor can’t benefit from the same disciplined process, strategies, and techniques, especially when you consider the cost effectiveness of doing so." John further states, "Our clients deserve better, and that is exactly what we strive to deliver for them."

The Clowers/Wilburn Group operates out of the Smith Barney branch office at 501 Madison Street in downtown Huntsville, and consists of Jason E. Clowers, Second Vice President-Wealth Management and Senior Investment Management Consultant; John C. Wilburn, Financial Advisor and Second Vice President – Wealth Management; David L. Little, Financial Advisor and Financial Planning Associate; and Hope M. Wisner, Client Service Associate.

For a no-obligation comparison to your current investment approach, please don’t hesitate to call 535-2868 or 1-800-633-2947. The Clowers/Wilburn Group at Smith Barney also maintains a web site at www.fa.smithbarney.com/clowerswilburngroupsb.

Smith Barney and Consulting Group are divisions of Citigroup Global Markets, Inc., Member SIPC.

Top of page

Customer satisfaction is the Number One Priority at United Van Lines

Armstrong Relocation in Huntsville, an award-winning agent for United Van Lines, specializes in corporate moving. They also provide residential and office and industrial relocation services. This family-owned business has provided professional service with a quality name since 1957. Armstrong Relocation’s number one priority is customer satisfaction, and this philosophy has won national contracts with NASA, Boeing, and Ruby Tuesday. In recognition of their superior work, United Van Lines issued the accolade, "Armstrong Relocation has been named United Van Lines’ Agent of the Month for July 2005: a definite reflection of exceptional achievement in serving our customers. This accolade is especially significant at United Van Lines because of the overall high quality of our agency family." Charlotte Dawson, President of Armstrong Relocation in Huntsville, stated, "I am thrilled to receive this award for Armstrong Relocation in Huntsville and our staff, who have worked very hard to achieve this honor. Armstrong Relocation will continue to provide award-winning service to everyone ‘on the move’." Armstrong Relocation was also selected in 2005 as ‘Agent of the Month Runner-Up’ for January, March, May, and June.

When choosing a company for your moving needs, you deserve the best, and Armstrong Relocation is the best for the following reasons: (1) It is the # 1 broker of household goods for United Van Lines, (2) It is # 1 in quality out of more than 500 other United Agents, (3) It provides a single point of contact by having dedicated coordinators who handle the details of each move from start to finish...locally, nationally, and internationally

To request a copy of the Pre-Planned Moving Guide, or for more information on services, contact Armstrong Relocation at 2775 Wall Triana Highway, Suite E. Contact a representative by phone at (256) 772-6664, toll free: (800) 239-5257, fax: (256) 772-8399, or visit the web site at www.armstrongrelocation.com.

Top of page

The McDonald Family – Preparing and Supporting Madison County’s Growth since 1961!

For more than four decades, the Mc Donald family has been a part of Huntsville and Madison County’s growth, with expertise in construction site preparation. S.O. McDonald and his brother, Charles, founded McDonald Bros. Construction in 1961 as a general contractor business specializing in heavy and utility construction.

In 1984, S.O. and his wife, Frances, bought out his brother and changed the company’s focus. "We had a vision of assisting Huntsville to grow, and we moved the company’s focus into commercial site preparation," McDonald says. "I contribute a great deal of our growth to my wife’s ‘vision’ and help. I just contributed the sweat and blood," McDonald adds.

The family tradition is strong at McDonald Bros. Mike Propst, S.O.’s nephew, joined the business in 1989 after receiving a degree in Building Construction from Auburn University, and working in construction. Mike is a company officer, a Project Manager, and is responsible for job estimating. Dell McDonald, S.O.’s son, has been with the company since 1987. He is a Vice President and the General Superintendent of McDonald Bros. Construction.

Dell McDonald says, "We are general contractors that handle site preparation, underground utilities, concrete installation, demolition, blasting, clearing land, and truck hauling of dirt and stone. We pride ourselves on our expertise and manpower to complete our clients’ projects in the required time frame."

Some of the projects the company has done in Madison County are Sam’s Club, Valley Bend in Jones Valley Shopping Complex, Regal-Mercedes Benz, Dynetics Corporation Headquarters, J.F. Drake Library, Hilton Gardens Hotel, Huntsville Hospital Urgent Care Facility, and Huntsville High School.

Dell McDonald began to work in the family business during his summer breaks from school. "Since I was old enough to walk, Dad (S.O.) would take me to work," Dell says. "He would operate a 175 International front-end loader, and I would sit next to him on the toolbox. I have always enjoyed this type of work, and I learn and do something different every day. I love to put on my boots and jeans, play in the dirt, and drive big toys."

McDonald Bros. is involved in the local business community, and is a member of the national organization, Associated General Contractors. Dell is Past President of the North Alabama Chapter and a current member of the State Board of Directors. McDonald Bros. Construction is also part of the Huntsville/Madison County Builders Association and Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce.

The McDonald family has broadened its involvement in real estate development with expansion into the residential real estate market by Dell’s wife, Holly McDonald. After a decade of success in the communications business, Holly has ‘followed her dream’ and brought that success with her to the field of real estate. Now a REALTOR with Keller Williams, she recently passed the Accredited Buyers Representative (ABR) exam, and has joined this elite group (only 5% of all REALTORS in the country) of distinguished Realtors. Holly was also honored by Keller Williams as a ‘Shooting Star’ with a first place award for her total real estate sales in 2005. She says, "I anticipated that a career in real estate was going to be rewarding, but I never imagined it would be quite like this. I love what I do, and I think my clients see that! It is a true blessing to work with and assist people in this capacity."

McDonald Bros. Construction is located at 2906 McJohn Street in Huntsville, AL 35805, and can be reached by phone at (256) 881-2930. To buy or sell your next home or if you are interested in a career in real estate, call Holly McDonald at (256) 990-1004, contact her by e-mail at holly.mcdonald@knology.net, or visit her web site at www.hollymcdonald.com.

Top of page

One of Huntsville’s Premier General Contractors specializing in Commercial and Light Industrial Buildings and Up-Scale Custom Homes and Remodeling

For more than 20 years, Lee Builders has exceeded clients’ expectations with highest-quality general contracting services for commercial and light industrial buildings, and custom homes.

Lee Builders (LBI) was incorporated in 1984 when C.C. ‘Jack’ Lee joined forces with two of his sons, Jeff and Bruce Lee, in the construction business. Jeff and Bruce owned their own individual construction companies, while Jack was a Vice President of Thiokol Corporation, and General Manager of the Huntsville Division. In 1987, Bobby Lee graduated in Mechanical Engineering from UAH, and became the forth partner at Lee Builders. In the 1990s, LBI expanded to include larger, multi-million dollar projects for schools, churches, offices, banks, government facilities, laboratories and custom homes.

Recently, Joe Lee, General Manager of Lee Builders, returned to Huntsville to participate in the business. Joe worked for more than 30 years at Scimetrics, Inc. a Houston, TX based company, as General Manager and Vice President. Joe stated that, "Lee Builders is a good-sized, local corporation that the Huntsville community identifies as a builder with integrity and a commitment to quality. I am excited to have come home to this growing and progressive business and community."

LBI offers clients a variety of contracting options, from a fixed price contract arrived at by open bid or negotiation, design-build, cost-plus, and build-to-lease. This flexibility has lead to the company working on many interesting community projects and landmarks. Some recent projects that Lee Builders has completed include:

• The Century BMW Dealership
• Parkway Place Mall tenant build-outs
• Hampton Cove Middle School
• Hazel Green Baptist Church
• Good Shepherd Catholic Church
• SouthTrust/Wachovia Banks throughout Madison County
• New homes in Stone Mark, Madison and Hampton Cove
• Renovations in the historical district
• Many other projects throughout Huntsville, North Alabama and South Tennessee

LBI has also been busy on Redstone Arsenal. Over the years, they have built or remodeled over 25 facilities on Redstone Arsenal, such as offices, light industrial buildings, and test labs. Much of their Arsenal work has been done for NASA, but their client list also includes the Corps of Engineers, the Army, and other agencies.

In recognition of their work, Lee Builders was awarded the Associated Builders and Contractors ‘Award of Excellence in 2004’ in the $2 -$5 million category for the Huntsville Office and Transfer Station. LBI has also won several first place awards in the Huntsville Parade of Homes.

Lee Builders is a conservative, well-managed company that is highly respected as a value-added partner. LBI places great emphasis on assisting and supporting their clients early in the planning process. With the client and architect, LBI is actively involved at the beginning of the project as design-build/value engineering consultants. The insight they bring into this process enhances the design, promotes cost containment and provides a more accurate completion date.

Contact Lee Builders at (256) 881-1778, info@leebuildersinc.com, or visit www.leebuildersinc.com.

PHOTO: The Lee family: Joe, Bruce, Bobby, Jack, Jeff

Top of page

We Promote Huntsville!

Resource Service Professionals (RSP) President, Jack Ferguson says, "Resource Service Professionals is Huntsville’s own Executive Event Planning Service, offering collectively, more than 50 years of planning and operations experience. We take great pride in assuring that clients are provided with professional Event Planning Services that exceed their needs."

The primary focus for RSP is their Student and Training Support Department that assists and compliments government and industry advanced education seminars. Executive Manager Mil White says, "What sets us apart are the services we provide for groups traveling here for more than one week. We will find a prime property for your group residence, provide online registration, and handle all local questions during your stay." In essence, RSP will support all non-educational aspects of the conference (ie. rental car reservations, pick-up and return to Huntsville International Airport, etc.), all at no cost to the trainee/student or the company.

Resource Service Professionals will also assist any national or local organization in planning a conference, meeting, convention, or corporate relocation fact-finding trip here in Madison County. And RSP will provide these services for the conference and/or individual attendees at a very reasonable cost. Authorized active duty or DOD civilian group members are encouraged to stay on Redstone Arsenal, but RSP can also act as the liaison for the group if such accommodations are not available. As Mil White says, "RSP is working hard to bring conferences, meetings, and training events to the Rocket City. We are providing services to schools, organizations, and businesses outside Huntsville wanting to come to Huntsville. We also provide services to local schools, organizations, and businesses scheduling events in Madison County."

You can contact Resource Service Professionals at P.O. Box 1404, Huntsville, AL, 35807, by telephone at (256) 489-7797, Fax: (256) 489-3236, e-mail: resourceservices@knology.net, or visit the web site at www.rspllc.com.

Top of page

Providing Professional Cleaning Services

Owner Stacy Rollins of A-1 Final Cleaning, offers professional inside cleaning services to builders, general contractors, REALTORS, and residential and commercial clients. A-1 Final Cleaning focuses on the ‘final’ cleaning for new construction and remodeled homes. After a home’s construction is finished, Rollins offers a top-to-bottom, thorough cleaning service before a client moves in.

Rollins believes in providing top-notch services. When A-1 Final Cleaning is on the job, they get the work completed in an efficient and timely manner. "We take care of cleaning cabinets, fixtures, windows, dusting walls, baseboards, kitchens, bathrooms…everything inside," Rollins says. With more than six years in the professional cleaning business, Rollins is a perfectionist, is hands-on, and dedicates her hard work to her children. She runs the family-owned business, and two of her children also work with her on jobs. "I work for my children, and want to give them something that can be passed down," she says.

Rollins can also provide clients with quality and affordable lawn care services, as she is the owner of Affordable Lawncare. "If a client needs lawn care assistance, we can also take care of providing lawn maintenance and landscaping services," Rollins says. Upon request, pressure-washing services are also available.

She is also involved in giving back to the community, and is an avid motorcyclist. Rollins owns a Harley-Davidson Softail Custom Springer, and participates in local fundraisers for organizations such as the American Cancer Society, St. Jude’s, Hospice, Toys for Tots, and Christmas Charities.

A-1 Final Cleaning is licensed and insured and provides service to Huntsville, Madison, Madison County, and Limestone County areas. For professional cleaning services for new construction and remodeled homes, apartments, condominiums, hotels, and offices, contact A-1 Final Cleaning at (256) 468-1472.

Top of page

Stan Bice Construction and Creekside Construction Merge to Form Cedar Creek Contracting, Inc.

Owners Stan Bice of Stan Bice Construction, and Grover Price of Creekside Construction, are proud to announce they have joined together to form Cedar Creek Contracting, Inc. This new company provides professional excavation, building site preparation, and many other related services to the Madison, Limestone, and Jackson County areas.

In late 2005, and in acknowledgement of business similarities, Stan and Grover decided to pool their skills and resources. "This was a perfect opportunity for us to grow," Stan says. "We work well together, so with our individual and unique professional skills and each company’s complimenting equipment inventory, we decided to merge into one company – Cedar Creek Contracting, Inc. As Cedar Creek Contracting, we are doing more of the work we did before, but easier and more efficiently!"

Stan and Grover share all business responsibilities, and have an experienced and dedicated crew specializing in excavation, commercial and residential building site preparation, slope development, construction of large stacked boulder retaining wall systems, demolition, logging, and pond and lake development. Stan comments, "We are large enough to simultaneously do multiple or large-scale jobs (such as developing subdivisions) using our extensive and varied inventory of equipment, but small enough to provide constant attention to the immediate job site and the growth needs of the area." He adds, "If it has to do with dirt, trees, or rocks, we will do it!"

Grover and Stan agree, "There is no such thing as ‘self-made’ men. We are made up of thousands of others. Everyone who has ever done a kind deed for us, or spoken one word of encouragement to us, has entered into the make-up of our character and of our thoughts, as well as our success. We owe much gratitude to our family, friends, and customers, and we look forward to many years of dedicated service to North Alabama."

Currently under construction, Cedar Creek Contracting is building a 7,500 square foot facility on 38-acres located on Winchester Road, one mile north of Buckhorn High School. This building will contain company offices, work and break rooms for staff, and equipment repair areas where their full-time mechanic will repair Cedar Creek Contracting’s equipment, as well as the equipment of other local companies. Future plans call for the development of a restaurant, Cedar Creek Café, and a shopping center on the property.

Cedar Creek Contracting is a member of the Huntsville/Madison County Home Builders Association and the Better Business Bureau. For more information, contact the company at (256) 603-4368 or (256) 337-6058.

Top of page

Exceeding your needs with quality systems, installation, service, and repairs

With new federally-mandated changes to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment, count on White’s Refrigeration to exceed your needs with quality systems, installation, service, and repairs. Founder, John White, started the business in 1956 and based the family business on the key principles of excellence, honesty, and reliability. In 1982, John passed the business to his son, Brian. Brian believes his father’s business principles reflect their success. He says, "We perform our service on time, and as scheduled. We are well-trained professionals who do the work correctly."

The management staff of Brian White, Kenneth Hooper, David Booker, and Will Phillips is set to handle the new EPA mandated changes to HVAC units. "Starting in January 2006, the HVAC industry has changed," Brian states. "The EPA has mandated that all equipment being manufactured must be a minimum of 13 SEER, and most currently operating equipment is 10 SEER or below," he continues. "By 2010, HVAC manufacturers will no longer be allowed to produce equipment with R22 Refrigerant. The new Refrigerant, 410-A (also called Puron®), will be the industry standard. Carrier has been using Puron® in all their 12 SEER and above units since 1997," he continues. "Carrier, and therefore White’s Refrigeration, is very experienced and well positioned for all of these current and future changes," Brian states.

The Carrier HVAC systems are reliable, durable, strong, and energy efficient. All Carrier units feature the Puron® Refrigerant that is environmentally sound and won’t deplete the ozone layer. Carrier’s exclusive Silencer System II™ ensures extra-quiet operation by maximizing air-flow and minimizing vibrations. WeatherArmor Ultra™ protection and a galvanized steel cabinet prevent corrosion. And the Infinity™19 heat pump has an efficiency rating of 19.0 SEER. This energy efficiency in the Infinity™ 19 heat pump means that for every $100 spent to cool a home using a 10.0 SEER heat pump, a 19.0 SEER heat pump should cost the homeowner approximately $53.

In order to assist clients in efficiently maintaining HVAC systems and identifying problems before they become major expenses, the professional and well-trained staff at White’s Refrigeration offers a Planned Maintenance Agreement. This program provides:

• Prolonged HVAC system life – and ‘peace of mind’ – through a complete year-round maintenance program

• A properly running HVAC system functioning at its highest efficiency – thereby saving money

• A 10% parts discount on any repairs made during the year

• Scheduled service twice a year – spring and fall

• Preferred status on all service and/or emergency calls with no overtime charges on labor

"If your HVAC system is operating properly and functioning at its highest efficiency, it will save you on your monthly utility bills and prolong the life of your HVAC system," Brian declares.

White’s Refrigeration is located at 1797 Sportsman Lane NW in Huntsville, and can be reached at (256) 837-6510, or visit the web site at www.whitesrefrigeration.com, or at Carrier’s web site at www.carrier.com.

Top of page

2006 Parade of Homes Dates Finalized; Spotlights the 2006 Showcase Home

The Huntsville/Madison County Builders Association (H/MCBA) has set its dates for this year’s Parade of Homes and its premier of the 2006 Showcase Home. It’s shaping up to be the best the Builders Association has to offer! The 2006 Parade of Homes dates are Saturday and Sunday, September 30 and October 1, and Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, October 7 – 9. All the homes will be open from 1:00pm – 6:00pm each day for viewing.

This year’s Parade of Homes will feature the 2006 Showcase Home, built in the Lake Forest Subdivision in Huntsville. Located at 71 Lake Forest Boulevard, the Showcase Home is being built by Byrne Turner of Vintage Construction Company. Featuring the craftsmanship of H/MCBA members, this home will be a true "showcase" of the latest trends and products in the building industry. Constructed with a brick and stone exterior, the home will feature a two-story foyer and grand room, formal dining room, downstairs master suite, library, keeping room, and an office. The upstairs floor has three bedrooms, three baths, and a rec room. A deck, covered patio, and three car garage complete this spacious floor plan.

Whether you are looking for a starter home, moving up to a larger home to meet the needs of a growing family, looking for a home that is less expensive for a tighter budget, or searching for a glamour home with all the bells and whistles, the 2006 Parade of Homes will have all that you are looking for. Mark your calendar and plan on spending a weekend or two with our builder members. They will be glad to assist you in building YOUR Dream Home. See You "On Parade!".

Top of page

Professionally Cleaning Things You Can’t See

For the past 10 years, Owner Terrell Nixon of EnviroSafe has made a living out of cleaning things that most people can’t see, such as mold, mildew, bacteria and allergens.

Terrell first started his business cleaning restaurant kitchens and kitchen exhaust systems at night because he wanted to spend more time with his family. Over the years, he began to see that mold was becoming a bigger issue and needed a better way to remove it … not just clean it. When it was discovered that bleach was ineffective at removing the mold entirely, he began researching products to help eliminate the mold, and found the patented system by Caltex International.

After using these products and seeing how it really removed the mold, Terrell realized this was a service needed in the community, and transitioned his business to focus on mold removal. Terrell enjoys the results he sees after a job is completed, and believes his service can benefit everyone. "I really believe this is a service that people need," he says. "As a family man myself, I love my family, and I enjoy helping other people take care of their families."

EnviroSafe offers a complete mold solution from start to finish. Terrell will find the cause of the mold and determine the best way to remove that cause, then he and his staff will remove it and treat your property to keep it from coming back.