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| Magazine Stories • Issue 15, Fall/Winter 2007/08 |
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COVER STORY: Woodland Homes of Huntsville, Inc.*
Posted 9/10/07 Look How We’ve Grown!
Woodland Homes is not the same company it was 12 years ago. The company has been awarded the National "Fast Track" status the last five consecutive years from Builders Magazine. The company has been recognized as the 56th fastest growing homebuilder in the nation from Builders Magazine and named as the 2-10 Elite Builder in Alabama. Locally, the company has won four years in a row in the annual Parade of Homes sponsored by the Huntsville-Madison County Home Builders Association. Three years in a row Woodland Homes was recognized as a finalist in the Small Business Awards from the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce. Most recently, this August, in the fourth year of being nominated, Woodland Homes won the title of the 2007 Small Business of the Year. The company also won the "Excellence is Not an Option" award, which was awarded by Alabama A&M University. Woodland Homes was chosen over all four of the other Small Business Award winners to receive this award. These recognitions do not come unearned. Even throughout its extensive growth, Woodland Homes has maintained integrity and quality. Providing the best service and product to their customers remains owners Mike and Melissa Friday’s top priority. Woodland Homes was born in 1995. The Fridays and a bookkeeper began the business in a 450-square foot construction trailer. They had 12 homes to build, and high hopes. Today, Woodland Homes has nearly 50 employees. The business is based out of a technology-rich, 20,000-square foot corporate office, and has built more than 200 homes in 2007 alone. The company’s innovative and forward-thinking approach to building communities has enabled Woodland Homes to thrive with top-notch products and customer service. "Most builders try to gain customers through cheap price per square foot," Friday says. "We understand customers want more than just square footage. They want a quality product and unparalleled customer service with attention to details." Woodland Homes provides a vast selection of locations, floor plans, and amenities within its unique communities, which include single-family homes, townhomes, garden homes, and lakefront homes. These options allow every buyer to take advantage of the quality and craftsmanship the company offers. One of its distinct communities is Lake Pointe at Goose Pond, located in Scottsboro just 45 minutes from Huntsville. This lakeside community has 30 waterfront homes designed with stacked stone foundations and fireplaces, oversized and covered porches, and two-story observation decks. Each home offers clients comfort and elegance with the standard minimum 10-foot ceilings, fireplaces, and soft exterior colors. Aside from Lake Pointe’s unique home designs, additional options include boathouses, guesthouses, and detached garages. "This community has been designed to be a unique retreat," Friday explains. "There is no other place that compares to it on the lake. The homes in Lake Pointe would be amazing no matter where they were built because of their design features, but we’ve built them on Lake Guntersville specifically to take advantage of breathtaking views of the water." One of the community’s most luxurious homes, its 2007 Rocket City Dream Home, can be found nestled amongst nature and wildlife at 197 Lake Pointe Circle in Lake Pointe. "This home is truly a dream home," Friday comments. "There is no other home that people can tour that will compare to it…from its professionally designed interior to its landscaping and waterfront view." The Rocket City Dream Home, valued at more than $2 million, is the Woodland Camp floor plan and is truly a dream home. A lagoon-style, infinity pool with seven waterfalls and a meandering stream, and a cabana house with a hanging bed offer places to lounge on summer days. Two outdoor kitchens with a pizza oven, grill, barbeque pit, and smoker create the perfect atmosphere for entertaining. The home’s wrap-around porch, observation decks and a screened-in porch are other areas to enjoy the view of the sparkling water. The pier and boathouse also provide places for outdoor play. Step inside the home, and its 20-foot ceilings, hardwood floors, commercial-grade kitchen with Viking appliances, fireplaces, and exquisite interior design throughout are simply breathtaking. Plus, above its detached garage is a guesthouse with a full bathroom, kitchen, and another view of the lake. To share this magnificent home with the community, Woodland Homes is hosting its third annual Rocket City Dream Home event, scheduled to begin Saturday, October 6 and continue through October 14. Woodland Homes communities in the Huntsville, Madison, and Monrovia areas allow buyers to find the perfect place to call home. Village at Walden Preserve, Walden Preserve, Whitworth Farms, Whitworth Gardens, Shadow Brook, Bishop Farms, and Woodmill Trace are some of the communities that homebuyers are already enjoying. Woodland Homes continues to build toward the future with Indian Creek Townhomes, Kelly Cove, Overland Cove, Spencer Green, and Foxfield. The company is unique because of its commitment to excellence. Mike Friday and his team are committed to building communities, not just subdivisions. Woodland Homes does not sell lots to other builders. "If you look back at the communities we have built, they remain the elite communities in Madison," says Friday. "The landscaping, home designs, and the return of our home buyers’ investments make Woodland Homes stand apart from the rest." While Woodland Homes continues to build simply the best communities, it also gives back to the area. With every home sold in Whitworth Farms, the company makes a donation to Volunteers of America. In addition, Woodland Homes also supports numerous charities, such as Lincoln Village Ministries, American Red Cross, and the Madison City YMCA. At this year’s Dream Home event, donations for Lincoln Village will be taken at the door. This year’s Rocket City Dream home in the Lake Pointe community promises to be the most extravagant home ever built by the award-winning company. Lake Pointe is unlike any other community ever developed by Woodland Homes. So far, every home in Lake Pointe has been bought before completion. "We’ve been looking for a second home for two years, and when we drove into Lake Pointe, we knew this was the place for us," commented one new homeowner. This amazing home can be toured during the Dream Home event October 6 through October 14. For details about this year’s event please visit the Woodland Homes web site listed below. Contact Info: Rosenblum Realty* Posted 9/12/07
Growing into the Future Rosenblum Realty is growing into the future as a fourth-generation, family-owned business anchored in residential real estate, property management, commercial real estate, and raw land investments. Owner Carey Rosenblum is proud to carry on the company’s tradition in its 50th year of business. "We are pleased that our 50-year anniversary has increased our visibility, awareness, and credibility among past, present and future clients, and friends," Carey states. "This historic event has had a very favorable and healthy impact on our business." In August of 2007, Rosenblum Realty was honored by the Huntsville-Madison County Chamber of Commerce, receiving the 2007 Small Business Award in the personal service/retail category. "We were surprised, humbled, and inspired all at the same time," says Carey. "We appreciated the recognition and realize it comes from the hard work of our whole team at Rosenblum Realty. We thank our clients and customers for their patronage and we will now work even harder to deliver the best professional real estate service possible." Carey’s grandfather, Tom Rosenblum, entered the real estate business in 1957. In 1971 Carey’s father, Tommy, separated from the real estate partnership started by his father with Jess Brooks, and formed Rosenblum Realty, Inc. In 1976, Carey began his real estate career in the family business after graduating from David Lipscomb University with a degree in Business Administration and took over the company in 1989. Carey holds the GRI, CRS, and ABR certifications and has received many accolades (State Top 40 REALTORS under 40 years of age in 1993 and Huntsville REALTOR of the Year in 2004). The family’s involvement in the real estate business has now expanded to include his son Michael, who has recently joined the staff. Michael is about to receive his Business Administration degree from Freed Hardeman University. With Michael joining the company’s Property Management Division (PMD) as the assistant manager, the company is continuing its course for success as a 4th generation business. Incidentally, Carey’s other son David, and Carey’s brother, Keith, are also REALTORS in the Nashville, TN market. They both work for Alliant Commercial Services, where Keith serves as the broker. "I really hadn’t thought about going into the family business," Michael says. "I was interested in pursuing a career in the healthcare industry. But when I began thinking about switching career paths, I talked to my dad. He told me that I could still serve people, just in a different manner. I see this job as a way to serve people by helping them find a home, whether buying or renting." And Michael’s efforts have had an impact. "Michael has been a huge asset to our team," says Carey. "I’m pleased with how he’s jumped in and taken responsibility and done even more than he should. Michael brings youthful enthusiasm to the team and he’s someone from the family that will maintain our values." PMD Manager Philip Winburn is also excited to have Michael join the team. "Michael has had a definite and positive effect on the PMD," Philip states. One of Michael’s clients, Michael Misfeldt, President of R. A. Construction of Huntsville, recently said, "I found Michael to be very professional and knowledgeable. I would definitely recommend Michael and Rosenblum Realty to my friends." The company’s successful growth can been seen in all areas, specifically in its PMD. "Philip Winburn has been very important to the growth of our PMD," Carey comments. "Philip has a personal commitment to service and he has supported our growth through his technological creativity with our PMD web site." To support growth in the PMD, Carey has added new software and staff. "Rosenblum Realty’s PMD is one of the largest property managers of single-family dwellings in North Alabama," Carey states. "Through growth of our own properties and the acquisition of another company’s portfolio, we now control about 300 units." In addition to Phillip and Michael, the Rosenblum PMD team consists of Paula Lindsey, Trisha Brewer, Linda Bole, and Christina Winburn. The team handles a variety of tasks from showing properties, reviewing applications, executing leases, accounting & reporting, and general communication, which keep the operation running smoothly. "They do a great job in covering these duties," says Carey. "As we market property for our sellers, quite often, instead of an outright sale, the opportunity arises for the seller to be benefited by offering a lease on their property or a lease/purchase alternative," Carey continues. "These service options offer a better way to meet the market’s needs and to manage the investment of our clients’ homes." Rosenblum Realty now has 32 agents on staff. "We are now stronger than ever in our sales and leasing presence," Carey emphasizes. "We can provide more solutions for every homeowner and would-be homeowner. We’re not just interested in numbers. We are interested in the quality of service we provide." And keeping the Rosenblum Realty staff organized is the office coordinator, Suzy Cagle. Suzy has been with Rosenblum Realty for nine years and she does a great job of juggling duties. Her responsibilities include answering the phone, writing checks, coordinating advertising, and keeping communication flowing among the agents and their clients. "Suzy has been a wonderful asset to our company’s operation and growth", says Carey. "Knowing that you accomplished what folks wanted when you started out, and that you did your work in an honest and straightforward manner is what we are most proud of in our business," Carey states. "Moving into our fourth generation—and into the future—the Rosenblum family has set its course for success!"
For more information about these or other properties, contact Rosenblum Realty for assistance at (256) 539-9501.
Contact Info:
A Commitment to Making Customer Satisfaction a Number One Priority Office Furniture Outlet recently introduced Parker House Furniture as its newest furniture line. Like Office Furniture Outlet, Parker House Furniture is a family owned and operated business. The Parker family started in the furniture industry in 1946 with a commitment to making customer satisfaction a number one priority and that mission statement is echoed at Office Furniture Outlet where Niles Prestage started his office furniture business in 1994. What began as a warehouse full of furniture factory returns, seconds, and scratch and dent pieces, has grown into North Alabama’s largest provider of in-stock new and used office furniture. Call the Huntsville store for Niles Prestage and you’ll often discover that he’s on the road searching for the best quality furniture at the lowest price possible. That’s why customers save as much as 75% at Office Furniture Outlet every day. You’ll find a competent staff waiting to assist you whether you’re outfitting a home office or an entire office building. Parker House Furniture joins an impressive list of famous name brand manufacturers at Office Furniture Outlet: Paoli, Hooker, DMI, Boss, Berkline, Riverside, Logiflex, IFI, Jasper Desk, Globe, HON and Steelcase—just to name a few. Plus, you’ll discover Jacob, a high-quality, affordable line of laminate furniture built especially for Office Furniture Outlet. DX and Aspenhome are two other recent additions that provide affordable wood and laminate selections. Shop the warehouse and discover both contemporary and traditional styles of office furniture, home furniture, chairs, sofas, conference tables, bookcases, filing cabinets, conference tables, credenzas, modular and movable panel systems, computer workstations, accessories, and much more. Everything is in stock and ready to move. Select from hundreds of chairs in several styles and finishes. Especially popular this time of the year are Berkline recliners. Take a moment to sit in a Berkline recliner and you’ll be adding it to your wish list. Accessorize your office or home with beautifully framed artwork, silk plants, lamps, desk picture frames, and much more. No matter how large or small the budget, the professional staff at Office Furniture Outlet provides each customer with solutions for his or her needs. Arrangements can be made for the safe and secure delivery of each purchase. Contact info:
Through nine years of dedicated service, David King of Creative Catering has developed many lasting relationships with his clients. "I’m always involved in every catering event because it ensures the quality of food and service that keep customers happy and coming back," David says. "Business to me is all about developing relationships. And, since most of our business comes to us through these relationships, whether through repeat clients or referrals, I always want to serve my clients with the goal of building a positive relationship!" David lays his relationship foundation by meeting with prospective clients, getting to know them personally, and going over their dreams and ideas. He then provides a quote and, once the contract is signed, caters the event with top-quality service and food. David confides, "At each event we give clients more than what they’ve expected, leaving them a satisfied customer. This then starts the process all over again with another catered event or a personal referral to a friend, family member, or co-worker." Creative Catering’s client base continues to grow through these catered connections. Client Crystal Wright has hired David for several catered events. She states, "In 2004, I planned and hosted a family reunion. Through David’s in-depth and detailed consultation, we were able to create a great meal." Crystal continues, "When my boyfriend proposed marriage and I accepted, I knew whom I would call…David. This time I felt like I was talking to my ‘favorite uncle’. The menu was tailored to suit my exact plans and David took the time to help me figure out how to make everything affordable and elegant. I was thoroughly satisfied with everything he did for our special day." "Then in June 2007, I hosted a surprise birthday party for my mother," Crystal adds. "Since David had a wedding that day, he told me that one of his staff members would drop-off the food. At the event, my guests told me there was a large Creative Catering vehicle outside. I ran out to greet the server and it was none other than David! He said to me, ‘Crystal, you know I would never miss seeing you.’ He came in and helped me set up everything. Service at its best is what I got with David. Oh, and I should mention, the food is wonderful! I think I have put on enough events for a while, so I might have to remove the Creative Catering telephone number from my speed dial. But, this ‘favorite uncle’ of mine will not be forgotten. I might just see him sooner than I think to celebrate my graduation with my master’s degree. I am sure my husband will know who to call." Creative Catering can cater a variety of events, such as wedding receptions, family reunions, backyard barbeques, luncheons, or an intimate gathering. The company is also the exclusive caterer for The Wedding Group in Huntsville. "Regardless of the size of the wedding or function, our commitment is to bring professionalism, culinary skill, and hard work to the event," David explains. "As a result of that commitment, we have been privileged to touch the lives of our clients in a positive way." Through Creative Catering’s dedicated service, David and his staff have built lasting relationships…ones that will last throughout many events in clients’ lives. Contact Info:
America is changing–the structure of families, our work habits and our recreational lifestyle. "Family" may mean empty nesters whose children live in other cities, a single Mom with her son or a Mom and Dad with two kids and a dog. Whatever the family makeup, people are busier than ever today. There is work, going to the gym, taking the kids to school, baseball, basketball and dance...mowing the lawn, trimming the shrubs and more. There seems to be "No Time". Creating the very best communities requires changing the way neighborhoods are designed-meeting the needs of the customers you serve. MidTowne on the Park and Grove Park, the newest communities created by partners Sandra Steele and Jeff Enfinger do just that. "Our business is constantly changing, however our philosophy is always the same–to serve our customer–and that means creating the very best communities," says Steele. Consistent with their development philosophy, the developers, Street Side Communities, Inc., has reserved more than one–third of the land in each community for green space. "Our master plan respects the environment by balancing both land use with preservation and by requiring that the plan conform to the existing landscape. With this approach people and nature can be successfully woven together," says Enfinger. MidTowne on the Park is an urban community adjacent to Research Park designed to offer a comfortable and convenient lifestyle while bringing back the traditional value of being good neighbors. MidTowne is a pedestrian friendly community, rich with amenities, and offers today’s family the convenience of walking or biking to work, to shop or dine out. MidTowne is just minutes from some of Huntsville’s most popular area attractions, fine restaurants and Bridge Street, a new shopping experience. MidTowne will enjoy two main entrances–one from Mainline Drive and an entrance directly into Research Park West from Explorer Boulevard. Construction of the Explorer Boulevard extension is set to begin late this year. In MidTowne everything happens at "Central Park". Towne Creek flows continuously through the park encouraging early morning jogs or quiet afternoon walks. You can fish in the four lakes or picnic along Indian Creek, soon to be part of the Indian Creek Greenway. Coming soon to Central Park—an Olympic Lane Pool, Putting Green and Clubhouse complete with fitness room and coffee bar. Homebuyers can enjoy historic architecture in both the Old Towne Collection and the Townhome Collection. Porches and sidewalks along a winding streetscape encourage neighbors to get to know one another. Homesites, sized to meet the needs of today’s homebuyers, will be maintained by the community...in other words, the lawn will be mowed for you. The builder of the Old Towne Collection is Mark Harris Homes, LLC. Specializing in custom homes, Mark understands the importance of authentic architecture, quality materials and excellent customer service. The Townhome Collection includes The Brownstone and Alexandria Collection. Built by Street Side Builders, an innovative team comprised of two builders, Wayne Blaxton and John Higginbotham. With 52 years combined experience, you can be confident your home is being built to provide ultimate customer satisfaction. For more information about this urban community, visit the web – www.midtowneonthepark.com or the onsite sales office, or you may call (256) 922-8484. Grove Park Townhomes offers the possibility of living in a place that makes life a little easier. Grove Park has small town charm and historic architecture, designed to provide a dramatic use of space and low maintenance—perfect for today’s empty nesters, working professionals and single parents. Located in Madison, Grove Park is off County Line Road. Easy access to I-565 and Highway 72 saves time while traveling to work, the airport and area shopping. The new Publix shopping center is less than one mile and offers several choices of shops and eateries. Living at Grove Park saves you travel time to schools. Walk to Heritage Elementary and Liberty Middle School, which is adjacent to the community. Bob Jones High School is a national Blue Ribbon School and offers high school students outstanding opportunities for learning. Grove Park is in a private setting surrounded by a 25 acre nature park and is designed to preserve open spaces and trees. The natural surrounding serves as a backdrop for the historic architecture of the homes. Built by Street Side Builders, Grove Park has brick and hardi- plank exteriors, designed to reduce the cost and time of exterior maintenance. Balconies, porches and terraces enhance the connection to the outdoors. Courtyards, trellises and overlooks take advantage of the private setting of the community. Grove Park Townhomes offer new and innovative floor plans that orient the living spaces to maximize views to the nature park. Professionally landscaped lawns further enhance the value of the community. Lawn maintenance is included, leaving more time for families to do the things they enjoy most. Afternoon swims or gathering with neighbors are all made possible at the Village House, Grove Park’s club house. Walks in the nature park, a convenient pooch park and easy access to the future Bradford Creek Greenway further promote an outdoor lifestyle. Find out how Grove Park Townhomes can reshape the possibilities of how you live, visit their onsite office or call (256) 325-9877. You can also visit them on the web at www.groveparktownhomes.com. The Heritage Club* Posted 9/6/07
Experience Exquisite and Elegant Cuisine at The Heritage Club The Heritage Club in downtown Huntsville offers exquisite and elegant cuisine for a tasteful fine dining experience. The tenured staff focuses their talents on offering members and their guests flavorful gourmet soups, salads, entrees, and desserts. Combined, the chefs have more than 50 years of cuisine experience. Each chef has a specialty that compliments each other as they work together to provide members with the best in food and service. "We offer a variety of different cuisines and work diligently to find out how members want their dishes prepared and to make it better than anything they’ve ever had," General Manager Richard Salazar says. The Heritage Club prepares all of its exquisite meals with the freshest fruits and vegetables, finest cuts of meat, and freshest seafood. An exceptional menu is offered, featuring daily breakfast and lunch buffets. The breakfast buffet features homemade waffles, eggs, bacon, biscuits, sausage, gravy, and fresh fruit. During the lunch buffet members can devour a variety of foods from a loaded salad bar of fresh garden vegetables, different dressings, pasta salads, and mixed greens; three different entrees; two vegetables; and a dessert station. On Fridays, the lunch buffet features the Club’s famous seafood gumbo, peel and eat shrimp, fried shrimp, and mouth-watering prime rib carving station. For a more relaxed pace for the evening meals, The Heritage Club offers tableside preparation of such member favorites as Steak Diane, Caesar salad, Bananas Fosters, Flaming Irish coffee, and Coffee Diablo. In addition, the chefs create delectable masterpieces with their appetizers, such as smoked salmon, crab cakes, and escargot, as well as seasonal soups that are made from scratch. At The Heritage Club, the motto is "The Member Is King"! The Heritage Club members and guests from the Huntsville community enjoy superb cuisine in a comfortable environment ideal for business activities and social entertaining. The facility’s amenities include formal dining room, seven private event rooms, members bar, and hospitality lounge featuring complimentary beverages. Business and concierge services are also available, including videoconferencing and wireless service. For private events, The Heritage Club provides a dedicated private event planner, Teresa White, for either business or social activities. One of the latest events The Heritage Club hosted was a visit by Democratic Presidential Candidate Barack Obama. The Club is also offering members a monthly cooking class. As always, the Heritage Club is planning a variety of special events, such as the annual Lily Flagg Ball, grand Thanksgiving buffet, and a New Year’s Eve party. Salazar instills in each staff member the value of superior service toward the Tennessee Valley’s business, professional, cultural, and civic community…making The Heritage Club the premier private dining club in North Alabama. "It’s a lifestyle, a place to meet other prominent members of the community that share similar interests, goals, and values," Salazar states. Contact Info:
Custom Cuts Professional Outdoor Services makes it its mission to provide residential and commercial clients with a total package of customized lawn care services. Owner Jimmy Stubbs focuses the company on offering a variety of services that are tailored to meet each client’s needs for each season of the year. For the upcoming fall and winter months, Custom Cuts provides lawn renovation services, such as planting and hydroseeding Fescue grass or sod. "With our hydroseeding, we use a big tank, drop in the seed, fertilizer, compressed paper mulch, water, and tactifier, which is all mixed together and then sprayed onto the lawn," Stubbs explains. "This solution with the tactifier helps it stick to the ground especially in areas that have slopes so the grass will grow evenly." After the procedure is complete, Custom Cuts checks on the lawn’s progress. "It is very important that our clients make sure to water the area on a regular basis to keep the grass from dying," he says. "If a client is too busy to take care of the lawn, we recommend installing one of our irrigation systems to prevent voiding the warranty we provide. In addition, an irrigation system improves the value of the property." The landscaping services that Custom Cuts provides includes installing a variety of landscaping items and performing maintenance needs per the client’s drawings and contracts. The company will also set any live plants, such as sod, flowers, and shrubs. "If it has to do with anything in your yard, we can handle it," he says. Custom Cuts’ most popular service is its lawn maintenance program for both residential and commercial clients. These contracts are set up on a 12-month basis and are itemized with what services Custom Cuts will provide. Typically, the contracts include services such as mowing, trimming shrubs, pulling weeds, and replacing annual flowers with seasonal colors. "We provide these contracts so customers know what they are paying for," Stubbs states. "Everyone from the staff to our clients knows what to do on what days. There is no guess work involved to what services we are providing." Since the company’s inception in 2003, it has steadily grown and now services 70 to 75 clients. "I take care of my clients’ lawns, just as if it’s my own yard," Stubbs comments. Customer service is a top priority for Stubbs. He makes it a rule to return customer calls, alert clients if he or a staff member is running late, and goes above and beyond by even dropping off a monthly bill if needed. "I want our clients to know that we appreciate their business and that we strive to meet and exceed their expectations," Stubbs says. Custom Cuts Professional Outdoor Services is licensed, insured, and carries worker’s compensation. Contact Info:
Come SEE our Luxury Ranch Condominium Community Timbers Edge, Hampton Cove’s ONLY established luxury ranch community, is designed to nurture closeness among its neighbors. "Timbers Edge is creating an environment that encourages people to come together socially and find that genuine sense of belonging," says Susann Denson, Director of Sales and Marketing. "It is a close-knit neighborhood with many activities and events involving all of our home owners. At Timbers Edge, everything evolves around the community." The ranch-style condominium community has 98 homes spread across 32 acres. It offers two and three bedroom floor plans with hardwood flooring, ceramic tile, granite countertops, finished sunrooms, stamped concrete patios, and cedar fencing. The home exteriors are a patented European-style country architecture and feature 90-percent stacked stone with Hardie plank siding. Builder Kenny Kirby says, "We offer homes with great amenities and superior upgrades. Timbers Edge creates a lifestyle in a social community that directly addresses the needs and desires of people living and moving to Huntsville." David Evans, Sales Associate, adds, "Our homes can be easily customized. Be sure to buy now to reserve your special location in the community and to enhance your home your way." Timbers Edge provides this communal haven while being just minutes away from the Robert Trent Jones golf trail, Monte Sano State Park, and many fine shopping centers. In addition to the lake, ponds, and on-site clubhouse with swimming pool and exercise room, Timbers Edge has a large, inviting community room ideal for making new friends. "Timbers Edge makes a carefree lifestyle available, supported by a sight plan with lush landscaping, low density, and a community atmosphere that creates an intimate village," says Jane Childress, Real Estate Broker. Timbers Edge is very pleased that Phase One of the community is close to being sold out and Phase Two has just begun. "Work is underway on establishing our community walking trails, which will eventually connect with the adjacent Hays Reserve/Hampton Cove Greenway," Susann states. "Landscaping is in full bloom and our fountains are running beautifully. At Timbers Edge, we are seeking quality people interested in living in a quality home within a strong community. We want to build a little family niche that is different from everybody else. We have our own little family out here where everybody knows everybody, and everybody looks out for each other." Timbers Edge’s fully functioning Community Club House is active with monthly homeowner events. "Residents meet for tai chi classes, mahjong tournaments, and regular poker nights," Susann explains. "In the past months, we have scheduled a cook-out, an ice cream social, a swimming party, and a magic show. And, the Community Club House is available, schedule permitting, to Timbers Edge home owners for any type of social gathering or event such as a wedding reception, an engagement party, or an anniversary celebration." Timbers Edge will feature two fully appointed homes with unique and patented floor plans in the Huntsville-Madison County Builders Association’s Fall Parade of Homes. Timbers Edge is creating a community for YOU! Contact Info:
The company name may not be Lewis and Clark, but Average to Art is a pioneer in every sense of the word. Owner Alissa Murnane is taking her company to uncharted territories in the art industry through innovative ideas and capabilities. "We are perfecting our business systems so we can provide other artists with a business model so they too can become professionals, says Murnane. Average to Art is at the forefront of innovative wall and surface finishes. For its commercial clients, Average to Art offers comprehensive packages targeted toward increasing employee retention and productivity. These packages can be used to improve employee offices and community spaces, such as conference rooms and break rooms. "You can give your employees a bonus they will use and forget over the weekend," Murnane comments. "Or you can invest in their office environment. By allowing your employees to choose a finish from your approved package, they will feel connected to their space and increase productivity." Recently, Average to Art applied a two-layer shimmer plaster on the walls and custom designed a faux tile backsplash for First Commercial Bank’s conference room. Lisa Sparks, Group Sales Manager and Vice President at First Commercial Bank, states: "The change has had a positive effect on our team members with its inviting feel." And Cindy Hall, Human Resource Manager, adds, "We had our first interview since the makeover and the feeling was very professional, yet warm and comfortable." One of Average to Art’s innovative services is a computer generated, 360-degree view of the client’s completed project before the work begins. "We can build a computer simulation of our client’s room or office and electronically ‘paste’ their approved finish sample or mural sketch on the appropriate wall(s), cabinets, and furniture," Murnane comments. "As always, Average to Art guarantees the finish samples or mural sketches will match the finished product, and this service allows the client to visualize the creative process."
Among her many achievements, Murnane was named the Artisan of the Month for the Chicago Institute of Fine Finishes, nominated for several small business awards, and honored as a young professional of the year finalist. Murnane also enjoys giving back to the community. She
volunteers with the Junior Achievement of Northern Alabama, co-founded the
Decorative Artist Exchange and Huntsville Art Blog, was appointed to the
Women’s Business Council at the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of
Commerce, and speaks to youth and business groups about pioneering ways to
live your creative dreams. Contact Info:
At Ruth’s Chris Steak House, patrons can experience a restaurant dining experience with its offered banquet and on-site catering services. The team at Ruth’s Chris Steak House continues to uphold Founder Ruth Fertel’s vision of caring for guests by delivering the highest quality food, beverages, and service in a warm and inviting atmosphere. The original Chris Steak House was located in New Orleans and purchased by Ruth Fertel in 1965. Shortly thereafter, a fire forced Ruth to change the original location and she renamed the restaurant Ruth’s Chris Steak House. Today, Ruth’s Chris Steak House is the largest upscale steak house restaurant group in the world, with more than 100 restaurants worldwide. "Ruth’s Chris Steak House is founded on three ideas: superior PRODUCT, precision/exacting PREPARATION, and attentive PRESENTATION," says Huntsville franchisee Nancy Oswald, who operates the business with Phil Brooks, Jim Brooks, and her husband, Mark Oswald. Ruth’s Chris Steak House specializes in broiling custom-aged, corn-fed USDA Prime beef in its trademark 1,800-degree ovens, personally designed by Ruth years ago to lock in natural flavor and tenderness. Each signature steak is served sizzling to ensure flavor and create excitement. In addition, the menu features veal, lamb, poultry, and fresh seafood such as Maine lobsters. A broad selection of appetizers, fresh-cooked vegetables and potatoes, specialty salads, and homemade desserts complete the dining experience. Ruth’s Chris Steak House is the place to gather for dining events, such as corporate meetings and parties, weddings, social receptions, and special celebrations. The restaurant provides various menus in impeccable Ruth’s Chris style, each tailored to the individual party planner’s taste. "All of our events provide variety with a Ruth’s Chris flair," says Director of Catering Sales David Petrak. What’s unique about Ruth’s Chris Steak House’s banquet and catering service is that it offers guests several types of service, including traditional buffet, and served "center-of-the plate" meals, such as Ruth’s Dinner Lagniappe. This last service opportunity is designed to provide something extra and allows guests to select their entrée and specify its preparation at the time of the event. General Manager Stephen Ryberg states, "Because of the training of our staff and the design of our kitchens, we excel at offering this type of unique culinary service. It’s fresh…it’s quality…it’s Ruth’s Chris!" The banquet and catering selections include themed dinner buffets, breakfast and brunch buffets, seated luncheons and dinners, or the ability to create an individual reception package. For corporate meetings, Ruth Chris Steak House also offers all-day meeting packages. In Huntsville, Ruth’s Chris Steak House and The Embassy Suites Hotel offer guests an environment that’s always warm and inviting. Available facilities range from hotel meeting/banquet rooms for up to 300 people to outdoor patio space for 200 partygoers to an intimate in-restaurant dining room for 32 guests. "The partnership of the Embassy Suites Hotel and Ruth’s Chris Steak House combines two internationally recognized flag ships," Ryberg says. "This acclaimed combination works together seamlessly to provide our guests with superior services in a tastefully appointed environment." For a celebration—and cuisine that sizzles, come and enjoy Huntsville’s culinary landmark, Ruth’s Chris Steak House. As Ruth Fertel said years ago, "Life’s too short to eat anywhere else." Contact Info:
Lewis and Son Roofing & Construction has been serving customers in Madison County since 1956 and is now proud to offer its services throughout Central and Northern Alabama and Southern and Middle Tennessee. To support its growth, the company that its customers can depend on for residential/commercial roofing needs and remodeling projects, now has 50 employees to cover the 150-mile service radius from Huntsville. Shane Lewis, President of Lewis and Son, says, "Our growth can be directly attributed to our integrity and good work. We are a one-stop-shop that can roof and remodel your home." Customer satisfaction is vital to Lewis and Son’s business, and among its many satisfied customers are Jim and Beverly Thompson of Decatur. Beverly says, "My husband, James, and I have been very satisfied with the work performed on our home by Lewis and Son Roofing & Construction. Their staff has been courteous to everyone and, as our project has expanded, there has been no problem any time we have had to ‘tweak’ the plans. We both work but we have been very comfortable leaving and knowing that everything would be well taken care of. We could have selected several companies to do all the work we needed to have done on our home, but it has been nice dealing with just one company for all our needs. We have no hesitation in recommending Lewis and Son." For the Thompson project, Lewis and Son used many top-quality products, such as the GAF Ultra Lifetime Roof System (featuring Timberline Ultra roofing shingles, Cobra Rigid Vent II exhaust vent for the roof ridge, Vinyl Soffit, Fascia and Freeze Board), Ellison replacement windows, 6" seamless gutters and downspouts, and Trex Decking and porch columns. The Trex products provide the Thompsons with an eye-catching, distinctive rail profile and a lasting beauty with far less maintenance than wood railings and columns. Another satisfied customer, Margaret Nell Fowler of Madison (owner of Auntie M’s Southern Antiques and Interior Decorating) states, "Lewis and Son Roofing and Construction Co. set up an appointment within 24 hours after I called them. They were extremely professional, fast and efficient. I was most impressed that they not only did an excellent job, they left no mess. I have recommended Lewis and Son to my friends, neighbors and clients. Their job performance has been exemplary with both residential and commercial clients." Lewis and Son is a GAF Master Elite Residential Roofing Contractor. This designation is significant, as only 2 percent of all roofing contractors achieve Master Elite status. Lewis and Son is also a member of the Huntsville-Madison County Builders Association. In line with their mission of providing the best service, Lewis and Son never uses a subcontractor and all employees are covered by Worker’s Compensation Insurance. "Lewis and Son is the largest residential roofing company in northern Alabama and Southern Tennessee," Shane says. "We did over 1,100 roofs in 2006. People want professional service and they have recognized that Lewis and Son does a professional job…every time!" Shane says. Contact Info:
Owner Barry Bowerman of Signs by Tomorrow focuses the company on providing top-notch services by valuing the customers it serves. For seven years, Signs by Tomorrow has built its business on offering high-quality vehicle wraps, tradeshow graphics, point-of-purchase graphics, banners, indoor and outdoor signage, and more. "Whether you’re looking for banners, real estate signs, tradeshow displays, or vehicle wraps, Signs by Tomorrow has the resources and the reputation needed to earn your business," Bowerman states. Signs by Tomorrow has a talented team with a wealth of experience. From graphic designers to skilled sign specialists, the staff works hard to deliver the best signs available. "We like to get to know our customers so we can have a total appreciation of their needs," Bowerman says. "This allows us to help them to find the best solution for each need." Many of Signs by Tomorrow’s customers attest to the company’s outstanding service and products. Daniel Stephens, Publisher of Who’s Who in Huntsville Magazine, states, "My experience with Signs by Tomorrow has been nothing less than exemplary! I’ve worked with Barry’s graphics department since 2003 and they can create a marketing campaign ranging from signs and banners to wrapping an entire vehicle in a matter of days—it’s amazing! My Who’s Who PT Cruiser is probably the most highly recognized car in town. I look forward to many more years of service with Signs by Tomorrow." Daniel Klibanoff, Co-founder of Angels Among Us, comments, "Signs by Tomorrow provided our nonprofit organization with signs and banners for the movie premiere of Constellation. This fundraiser event was for the Lee High School bus accident victims and Signs by Tomorrow gave us pricing accordingly. Barry and his staff helped us hang the signs and even helped us on a weekend. Everything looked fantastic, extremely professional, and eye catching." Customer Art Azlin adds, "Signs by Tomorrow provided me with graphics to go on my large-scale, radio-controlled model aircrafts. I can’t say enough about the graphics team. They are creative geniuses. I gave them an idea and they provided me with suggestions on colors, fonts, and graphics. The staff at Signs by Tomorrow is great to work with." Signs by Tomorrow continues to value its customers by using cutting-edge technology and equipment. The company’s Hewlett Packard 9000s wide-format, solvent printer is faster, prints on more materials, and is less expensive to operate. In addition, Signs by Tomorrow also has a high-speed wide format vinyl plotter for one-color signs and banners, window lettering, and die cutting around printed graphics. "The new equipment in our shop allows us to produce high-quality signs and graphics faster, and more efficiently, thus allowing Signs by Tomorrow to restructure our pricing on 75-80 percent of items," Bowerman says. With its cutting-edge equipment and customer service value, Signs by Tomorrow looks forward to providing the Huntsville community with all of its signage needs. "We are the experts on full-color signage," he says. "We want to be the place that everyone comes to." Contact Info:
Keith Pinkerton, franchisee owner and licensed electrical contractor of Mr. Electric of Huntsville provides expert electric service with a national name and award-winning service. Pinkerton, owner of Pinkerton Electric Services, Inc., began his Mr. Electric franchise in November 2003 and has continued to flourish each year because of his dedication to customer service and his company’s value system. "Mr. Electric of Huntsville is a group of trained professionals who strive to perform quality service that provides 100-percent satisfaction to our customers," Pinkerton says. Mr. Electric of Huntsville offers residential and commercial full-service repair, replacement, and upgrades, as well as security, landscape and holiday lighting, high-tech troubleshooting, emergency generators, surge protection, home safety check-ups and a members-only Advantage Plan™ featuring priority scheduling, preferential pricing and a variety of other consumer-friendly perks. Mr. Electric of Huntsville also has a strong and growing Electrical Remodeling Division to assist customers in improving and upgrading their electrical system as they remodel their home. Mr. Electric of Huntsville is an active member of the greater Huntsville community and is also a member of the Huntsville-Madison County Home Builders Association. The Mr. Electric franchisee family now tops 200 worldwide. As part of the franchisee family, Mr. Electric of Huntsville is third in the United States in dollar volume and ninth in sales per capita. "I chose to be a part of the Mr. Electric franchisee family because of their integrity, business systems and focus on customer service," Pinkerton explains. At its annual franchise meeting this year, Pinkerton received the 2006 Mr. Electric Franchisee Excellence in Leadership Award. "This excellence award is a reflection of my entire team’s care, commitment, and dedication," Pinkerton says. "To us, it’s about more than just doing a job well. With us, customers know they can count on courteous, professional, and fast service." Pinkerton has 13 service professionals and 11 trucks on the road daily. Each service professional has extensive electrical knowledge, wears a Mr. Electric franchise uniform, displays a Mr. Electric of Huntsville picture ID, and goes through regular training. Dedicated remodeling crews that can perform electrical remodeling for an entire house are also on staff. Mr. Electric of Huntsville provides 24/7 emergency service through an on-call service professional, as well as a back-up service professional. "We want the cream of the crop of employees in our industry" Pinkerton states. "I fully trust and believe in the professionalism and the ethical behavior of all my service professionals." Mr. Electric of Huntsville has experienced significant growth in 2007. Services have expanded throughout Madison, Limestone, Morgan, Marshall, and Jackson Counties. Strong emphasis has been placed in several service areas and on a newly-created internal department focused entirely on electrical remodeling projects. A seasonal service offered is Holiday Lighting by Mr. Electric of Huntsville consisting of holiday decorations and Christmas illuminations for homes or businesses. Pinkerton explains, "With our holiday lighting packages, we combine all our standard Mr. Electric of Huntsville service and professionalism with custom design, unique products, installation, maintenance and removal/storage of holiday lighting. We begin by taking a digital picture of the client’s home/business and then place lighting effects in the picture. This way the customer can see the complete decoration package before signing the contract. After designing this custom illumination, we install and monitor the display throughout the holiday season. When the season is over, we return to take down the display and store the decorations until next year." Pinkerton continues, "Another area of emphasis is Outdoor and Landscape Lighting by Mr. Electric of Huntsville. Outdoor lighting is the perfect way to create a pleasing outdoor atmosphere and a practical and effective way to prevent crime in or around your home or office. Mr. Electric of Huntsville trained professionals use quality products and perform timely installations and upkeep. As with Holiday Lighting by Mr. Electric, we will take a digital picture of your home and provide you with a picture of what your home and business will look like with a customized lighting package. And, if you wish, Mr. Electric of Huntsville will even provide a FREE landscape lighting demo on your residential property. If you are considering the installation of outdoor or landscape lighting, contact Earl Payne for a free consultation." Pinkerton concludes, "Mr. Electric of Huntsville has always done electrical remodeling for our customers. As our service team has reached across the region, we have been asked to become involved in home remodeling projects. In response, we created a separate division of five electricians and three apprentices to focus solely on remodeling customers and their projects. With Dan Brown managing the Electrical Remodeling Division, we strive to meet the needs of current and future customers. We want to be YOUR electrician – someone you know and depend upon for all of your electrical needs!" Contact Info:
"Experience" - the accumulation of knowledge or skill that results from direct participation in events or activities... Barry Phillips, a second generation builder, brings knowledge, skill and more than 22 years of hands on experience to each home that he builds. Recognized as one of Huntsville Madison County’s most respected residential builders, Barry Phillips Builder, Inc., offers the homebuyer the ultimate experience in building distinctive custom homes. Over the years, Barry Phillips Builder, Inc., has earned its reputation by building homes that offer incomparable designs and craftsmanship for discriminating tastes. Refined floor plans, intricate detailing, and abundant amenities promise elegant and comfortable living. Barry Phillips Builder, Inc., is a member of the Huntsville Madison County Builders Association. Barry has served on the Board of Directors since 1995. Barry Phillips Builder, Inc., is the builder of the HMCBA Showcase Home for the 2007 Fall Parade of Homes. Located in McMullen Cove, Huntsville’s ultimate community, this year’s home promises to be one of the finest offered by the Builder’s Association. Barry’s experience in building is evident when touring this truly extraordinary home. Barry utilizes his years of experience to oversee every aspect of the building process. He takes full responsibility from start to completion of each new home he builds. The result is a product in which he and the new homeowners can take pride. "I strongly believe that we offer one of the best built homes in this market." states Phillips. With a "no nonsense" approach to customer service, Barry Phillips Builders, Inc., has built a strong reputation for straight talk, fair and honest dealings and a commitment to professional customer care throughout the warranty period. Barry believes that the difference is in the details. To view one of Barry’s fine homes you may visit The Town of Cambridge, Heritage Plantation in Madison and Braewick at McMullen Cove. Tour the 2007 HMCBA Showcase Home beginning October 6, 2007. For more information about Barry Phillips builder, Inc., visit our web site at www.Barryphillipsbuilder.com. AllSouth Appliance Group, Inc.* Posted 9/12/07
Since 1997, AllSouth Appliance Group, Inc. has been providing customers with a one-stop, conveniently located store to compare all the best brands of home appliances. Tyler Hillman and his brother, Josh Hillman, (co-owners) wanted their showrooms in Birmingham and Madison to be an inviting and friendly, offering easy product comparisons on top-quality kitchen appliances and outdoor bar-b-que equipment. "Time is valuable to us all," Tyler comments. "We understand the pressures of building a home and all the decisions involved. Our goal is to save customers money, time, and provide great selection so they don’t waste their day shopping all around town." AllSouth’s convenient location on Highway 72 in Madison offers North Alabama’s best opportunity to comparison shop under one roof. Its no-pressure sales staff will assist customers with over 30 high-quality name brand appliances that are displayed in a kitchen setting to show customers how the products will look once they are in their homes. AllSouth is the only dealer in North Alabama with such fine brands as Sub-Zero, Wolf, Viking, Miele, and Dacor, as well as the GE Monogram line, all under one roof. The sales people are well-trained in all brands and provide honest product benefits and features, because they sell them all. AllSouth even provides unique on-site, home consultations at no additional charge. "We’re more than happy to go on-site, whether you are building a new home or remodeling a kitchen," Tyler says. "We don’t design, but we do give direction and offer expertise on products that will fit the space, budget and the customer’s desires. This service has been very well received in the Huntsville area. Plus, with our own staff, AllSouth also installs and services all brands we sell." As a builder supply company, AllSouth’s Birmingham location was chosen by the Sub-Zero Freezer Corporation to build Alabama’s first "Living Kitchen". When built, it was the second largest in the country. "It is a store within a store with over 90 pieces of Sub-Zero and Wolf products on display," John Hillman, Josh and Tyler’s father and manager of the Madison store, comments. "When I first visited the Birmingham showroom I was fascinated by its family feel. The showroom is enormous and packed with fantastic appliances of every description, and yet, very comfortable. When our customers enter the Madison showroom, I want them to feel they are in a comfortable place where they can make very important decisions about their kitchens." Since opening in Madison, AllSouth has become very involved locally. AllSouth is a member of the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce, the Madison Chamber of Commerce, and the Huntsville-Madison County Builders Association where it exhibited in the Spring 2007 Home Show. Also, the company provides a "Builder’s Cook-out" for builders that place AllSouth products in their project homes. "This is a win-win-win situation for the builder, the homeowner, and AllSouth," John states. "We are excited about the reception we have received as a presenting sponsor for the Fall Parade of Homes and look forward to developing these relationships further." Tyler adds, "We take our business seriously. The builders must sell homes to make a living, and we’re here to support them and make it happen. That’s how we’ve grown the business over the years. We do what we say, and the end result is a satisfied customer." Contact info:
Danny Hallum and Joel Robertson founded Southern Stone Design (SSD) with the intention of becoming a small, well-established granite installation company. Their expectations were greatly surpassed as the company developed into a full-service fabrication business, including the templating and installation of granite. This growth makes SSD one of the largest granite fabricators in North Alabama. SSD’s exceptional growth is due to its excellence in service and product. "I’ve been hugely surprised by the success of the simple concept upon which SSD was founded," Danny says. "Serving customers an excellent product and providing superb service pays off in every way." The natural stone used by SSD is high-end, quality material from Italy, Brazil, and Africa. Available quartz products are Hanstone, Ceasarstone, and Zodiaq. These brands of quartz materials are developed by industry leaders and offer beauty without sacrificing strength and durability. On display at the SSD showroom are hundreds of granite and quartz options, edge profiles, and sample under-mount kitchen sinks. SSD offers retail customers the option of going to granite suppliers in Birmingham or Nashville to personally tag and select their own granite slabs. And, if the customer chooses to go to a wholesale supplier in Nashville, they may take their paint and cabinet samples, and, at no extra charge, work directly with a SSD-provided interior designer to select their stone. SSD is licensed and insured and is a member of Huntsville/ Madison County Homebuilder’s Association, Morgan County Homebuilder’s Association, North Alabama Better Business Bureau, and the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce. Some of the builders SSD works with include Mark Harris Home, Nicholas Homes, D.R. Horton, Killian Homebuilders, Pollard Homes, and Viking Construction. The company has been selected to provide the stonework in the Huntsville-Madison County Homebuilder’s Association Showcase Home in the Fall Parade of Homes. "We are absolutely excited and honored to be given this opportunity," Danny states. SSD will also provide the stonework for other members of the McMullen Cove Builders Guild, which includes Matrix Builders and Mitchell Home Builders. In addition to providing the stonework, SSD’s Sales Representative and Interior Designer, Sandi Cantrell, will work exclusively with these builders. Within the next six months, SSD plans to relocate and modernize the entire business’ procedures, from the sales ordering process to the machines it uses to cut the stone, to invoicing. "We are upgrading our manufacturing process to include the latest, state-of-the-art, fully automated, stone templating and fabrication system," Danny comments. "This modernization will bring the quality of SSD’s products to an even higher level." Danny continues, "Our entire system is being updated with an integrated, computerized program that will allow full communication throughout the company. The salesperson will place orders online, which is tied into the software package used company-wide. If a customer wants to make any changes to their order, all the departments will know immediately." As one of North Alabama’s largest fabricators, Southern Stone Design will continue to polish its processes by developing new techniques and procedures. This, in turn, will provide clients with even better products and more responsive services. Contact Info:
Ted Gulas, CEO of The Gulas Group, has been decreasing costs, increasing revenues, and developing human assets for Alabama organizations the past 18 years. The single biggest challenge is maximizing knowledge worker/mission-critical workers who decide, do, and deliver their work daily on an invisible assembly line. Especially, in North Alabama, 80 percent of companies are basing their hiring decisions on technical skills, education, basic skills, training, and experience. Unfortunately, 85 percent of turnover is due to behavioral incompatibility. The Gulas Group has the most effective process available for retention and recruiting of superior performers. The system is called The TriMetrix. The TriMetrix combines three validated theories together to produce information about the job and the person in an understandable format. The three theories are DISC behavioral styles, Values, and the Attributes Index. This mean the TriMetrix recipient will have specific behavior, attitude, motivators, and attribute/talent information combined into one report. The TriMetrix system is designed to provide value to organizations in four areas. The first area is Selection. This area compares the applicant to the internal benchmarks created by stakeholders. Validated research of the TriMetrix selection process shows 93-percent accuracy in predicting the top and bottom performers. The second is Retention. Motivation is a very individual and specific characteristic. Each worker is motivated by different sets of values. Retention improves because the TriMetrix identifies the values that underlie each workplace motivator for the individual you are hiring or coaching. Retention is up because superior performers want to come to work now more than ever because they are aligned with their personal motivators for working in your organization. The third area for improvement is Performance Management and Appraisals, which includes the 360 degree feedback of 23 talent attributes that are all job related and in some cases, industry related. The last area is Development. Development includes the option to use a set of RX CDs, which outline specific coaching and action steps for development and milestones for continuous improvement. In summary, the TriMetrix becomes a consulting tool to evaluate the position, and people in order to make hiring decisions. The information can also be used for performance management, performance appraisals, and development plans. It is an effective system to eliminate both the bias and constraints from people currently in an organization. Contact the Gulas Group today for a no charge consultation and free report that will show you how to recruit, retain, appraise, and develop superior performers for any industry group. Contact Info:
President of Vintage Construction, Inc. Byrne Turner states, "Our goal is to give the customer more than expected in every aspect of a project." Turner and Vice President Dwain Clardy, both with more than 15 years of building experience, specialize in exceeding customer expectations through relentless attention to detail and true craftsmanship. Vintage Construction, Inc. continues to build exceptional homes in the finest communities throughout Madison County and also perform extensive and challenging remodeling projects. The company also specializes in high end custom trim work, and provides this service to a select group of builders. Vintage Construction currently offers homes in the Village of Providence, where they are members of the Builders Guild. 9 Hope Street is a two-story historically designed home offering four bedrooms, front and rear porches, and two-car garage. Features include extensive use of crown molding and trim, an abundance of direct and ambient lighting, granite countertops and a stamped concrete patio. The open and gracious great room features a fireplace, coffered ceiling and rich cabinetry appointments designed to maximize easy living and entertaining. The neighborhood offers a meeting house with professional exercise equipment, library, card room, pools, multiple parks and playgrounds, and creek side hiking and biking trails. Turner says of these luxurious homes, "Building in Providence is truly a privilege. We are proud to be a part of what this development is all about and the lifestyle that it brings back to Huntsville – a true neighborhood." Builders of the 2006 Showcase Home, Vintage Construction will be showcasing a home located at 8 McMullen Lane in the 2007 Fall Parade of Homes. This beautiful two-story home has 5,055 square feet, brick and stone exterior, and a three-car garage. There are four bedrooms with private baths, walk-in closets, three custom fireplaces, and panoramic Mountain views. A mahogany-paneled library and home theatre with kitchenette are also featured. An Old World-look kitchen, breakfast room, and keeping room are delightfully finished with Vintage appointments including a 100-year-old beam over the fireplace and antique iron panels from Hungary. The home displays numerous unique features including vaulted Brazilian cherry and mahogany ceilings, and an expansive outdoor room complete with kitchen and 50-inch flat screen TV. The REALTOR of the property is Maxine Sikes of Keller Williams, a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist. Turner remarks, "Each year we strive to better ourselves and our product. After building the Showcase home last year we had our work cut out for us, but I believe we have built a home that blows last year’s away. I don’t think anyone who takes the time to tour this home during the Fall Parade will be disappointed." Continuing their tradition of exceptional work in beautiful locations, Vintage Construction has joined B.T. Neely Construction, Inc. in a partnership. Together, they have purchased lots, and individually they will build homes in McMullen Place and Sotheby sections of McMullen Cove. Byrne Turner states, "We look forward to our venture with B.T. which couples our financial strength, yet still allows us to individually service our customers." Contact Info:
Settling for Nothing Less than the BEST! With homes in Providence, McMullen Cove, and now The Peninsula at Goose Pond near Scottsboro, B.T. Neely Construction, Inc. offers clients nothing less than the best in luxury homes. Owner Brant T. Neely has been a general contractor for more than 22 years and has built custom homes since 1985. B.T has the expertise to give each customer complete satisfaction by offering signature items that display high-quality craftsmanship and unique features. He is a board member of the Huntsville-Madison County Home Builders Association and a Builders Guild member for both McMullen Cove and the Village of Providence. His son B.J. is also a partner in the business. One of the company’s newest homes is at The Peninsula at Goose Pond. Located on Guntersville Lake, this 5,000-plus square feet, basement house has four bedrooms, three full baths, and two half baths. It also has a game room, theatre room, library, three fireplaces, and a climate-controlled storage room. Outside, there is a patio with two covered porches and a dock with a two-slip boathouse. "We are very excited to be offering waterfront property now," says B.J. "It’s wonderful to be building luxury homes on beautiful Lake Guntersville." B.T. Neely has now built more than 25 homes in Providence since 2003. One of the company’s newest homes in this community is a 3,000-plus square feet home with traditional brick exterior. What makes this home unique is its two-story family room with stone fireplace. A staircase with slate risers and iron ballisters lead to a loft with cedar columns overlooking the family room. The home has three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a theatre/bonus room, and a library off the foyer. Outside, an exquisite fountain and herb garden provides peace and serenity. B.T. Neely’s showcase home in McMullen Cove is #5 McMullen Lane. This 5,000-square feet, four-bedroom, European-style house is on display in the Fall 2007 Parade of Homes sponsored by the Huntsville-Madison County Home Builders Association and listed with Thelma Dawson of Re/MAX Madison. The home features brick and stone exterior, standing seamed metal roof, a three-car garage, and five fireplaces (including an outdoor fireplace). The home also provides a SubZero refrigerator/freezer, Wolf stove and ovens, home theatre room, a view of the mountains, and interior decorating by Jan Weir Johnson. In the "ultimate community" of McMullen Cove, B.T. Neely Construction Inc. has teamed with Vintage Construction for an exciting joint venture. Together, they have purchased lots with the intent of each company building their respective client’s custom home. As original members of the Builders Guild of McMullen Cove, both B.T. Neely and Byrne Turner of Vintage Construction strongly believe that their new company combines the best of their strengths and offers the finest in residential home construction. The homes in Providence, McMullen Cove, and now The Peninsula at Goose Pond, show that each custom house B.T. Neely Construction builds is unique and features materials, details and locations that exhibit a standard that is "Up and Above" the Norm! Contact Info:
A variety of fitness solutions await at University Fitness Center for anyone of any age and level of ability. The Center is a 70,000-plus square-foot facility with the primary focus on providing people with a variety of fitness options that make exercising enjoyable and beneficial at the same time. Offering more than 100 hours of land and water fitness classes a week, the mission of University Fitness Center is to provide the university community, as well as Huntsville and the surrounding communities, with opportunities for wholesome recreational activities that will compliment daily living and increase the quality of life of its members. This unique facility opened September 2001 and is located on the University of Alabama in Huntsville campus. Amenities include an indoor track suspended above three basketball courts, a 6,000-square foot weight room, separate well-ventilated cardio area featuring cardio theatre, a sports bar with healthy snacks, and an indoor pool that hosts everything from water fitness and therapy to swim lessons to learning how to roll in a kayak. Group exercise programs include Pilates, Ballroom and Swing Dance, Kickboxing, Zumba, and a wide variety of strength and flexibility classes. What is new at UFC? New equipment has recently arrived, which includes Nautilus ellipticals and treadmills, and new NXT spin bikes. Also, they have recently added the new Zumba and Body Attack group fitness classes. The University of Alabama in Huntsville owns University Fitness Center, but it is managed by a private company created exclusively to staff, program, and make equipment selections for weight room and cardio areas. Staffed by professional, degreed, and experienced employees, University Fitness Center offers counseling and guidance to all desiring to enhance their health and well-being. Exclusive programs are available for seniors, children, and those with special needs. Some of the special needs programs include Dynamic Performance Physical Therapy and Special Solutions classes that focus on helping people with arthritis, fibromyalgia, Multiple Sclerosis, or other injuries to achieve their goals of feeling better and stronger. In addition to these special needs classes, University Fitness Center offers Big FITKIDZ, Pool Play, and a variety of swim and physical exercise classes for children. All University of Alabama in Huntsville students, staff, and faculty have access to University Fitness Center. However, membership is also open to the public, with corporate memberships available. For a variety of fitness solutions that fit anyone of any age or shape, contact University Fitness Center. Contact Info:
Duell Law Firm, LLC is located in Birmingham, AL, but has recently established a firm Huntsville connection. Owner Richard Duell focuses his practice in franchising and recently completed the franchise process for two Huntsville firms, Who’s Who in Huntsville Magazine and The Organization Supporting Business Owners (OSBO). Tana Torrano, founder of OSBO, states, "I was exploring the possibility of expanding through franchising and had a lot of questions about the process. I had already spoken with several companies from around the country about franchising and attended some franchising seminars. I was very excited to discover that we had a firm focused on franchising in Birmingham. I made the appointment to meet with Richard Duell and in a very short time realized I had found a fit for franchising OSBO. Richard answered all my questions and made the whole process less intimidating." After this first meeting, Torrano shared the information she had learned with Daniel Stephens, owner and publisher of Who’s Who, Inc., who is also a member of OSBO. "After speaking with Tana about what she had learned from Richard Duell regarding the franchising process, we quickly realized this was a great way to expand Who’s Who Magazine throughout the country," Stephens explains. Stephens quickly made arrangements to meet with Duell Law Firm, and in a few short months, both Who’s Who and OSBO became national franchise companies. "The Duell Law Firm has a thorough, working knowledge of every part of the franchise equation," Stephens says. "Richard and his team can help your business through the entire franchising process, from trademark registration, drafting all of the franchise documents for new franchise companies, to helping the mature franchisor with everything from registering in the required states to franchising internationally." Duell Law Firm can help business owners who are thinking about expanding into other markets through a franchise option and establish a plan for success. "Our firm can provide answers to numerous questions clients have, such as ‘Does my business fit a franchise model?’, ‘What will it cost?’, ‘What are the legal requirements?’, ‘What corporate structure is needed?’, ‘How do you determine the selling price for the franchise?" Duell says. "It is important to have the right team of advisors when making this decision for your business" Another member of the Duell Law team, Marcus Hunt, is also making the Huntsville connection. Hunt will be holding a copyright and trademark seminar for the Huntsville Arts Council in September. He works closely with clients in the arts and entertainment areas and sees a great arts community in the North Alabama area. "We love the business environment in Huntsville," Duell comments. "We are looking forward to adding more clients from North Alabama." As a Birmingham law firm, Duell Law Firm is close by and offers personal support and involvement throughout the entire process. "You will have the confidence of knowing the people who are working with you to develop your plan," he explains. No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers. Contact Info:
At Cotton States Insurance® the most important policy is trust.For Owner/Agent Andrea Fink, it’s not just a slogan…it’s her way of doing business. "What sets us apart is our focus on consistent accessibility and personalized attention to our customers," says Andrea. The Cotton States Insurance® group has been protecting residents of the Southeast since 1941. Generations of families have come to count on Cotton States and its affiliates for all their insurance needs. Recently, Cotton States affiliated with COUNTRY Financial®, which has offices in 18 states and is licensed in 44. With that solid foundation behind her, Andrea Fink is proud to announce the opening of her Huntsville location. "I’m excited to be here in Huntsville and provide quality, personal care to my clients," Andrea states. "We offer a full line of insurance protection for the entire family." "I take pride in being able to give my customers peace of mind, knowing that I have their best interests at heart," she comments. "And I chose to open a Cotton States Agency because of Cotton States’ commitment to their customers, as well as the company’s direction and goals for the future. This will allow me to better serve my clients needs." Previously, Andrea worked for another insurance agency in Fayetteville, NC. She and her husband Bill moved to the Tennessee Valley to be close to family. "I chose to become an Insurance agent because I wanted to help people and their families," she comments. Andrea has a great depth of international exposure and education that helps her relate to people across the community. "I want everyone to know about the great services that Cotton States can provide," Andrea states. For your Life insurance needs, Andrea provides top-quality Term Life (10-20-30 years), Universal Life, and Whole Life policies issued by Cotton States Life Insurance Company™ of Atlanta, and by COUNTRY Life Insurance Company®, Bloomington, IL. Andrea offers a variety of Auto insurance services with discounts from Cotton States Insurance such as multi-car, safe driver, good student/college graduate, select customer, engaged couple, and multi-policy discounts. Cotton States services also include homeowners insurance, condominium insurance, and tenant insurance. Andrea emphasizes, "Your home is likely your most valuable investment next to your family. Making sure you have the coverage you need not only for your home but for your personal belongings, is what I do." Cotton States also provides flood insurance coverage through the National Flood Insurance Program. Cotton States claims service is one of the best in the industry. They offer their customers a live, toll-free claim reporting help line for all policyholders, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also e-mail Andrea and she will respond to your questions or concerns within 24 hours. "It’s our motto: ‘At Cotton States, we know insurance is more than offering a policy’," she states. "It means offering protection that’s right for you, backed by service you can count on when you need it most. That’s what I stand by." Contact Info:
Since 1995, Bill Loden of Insight Building Inspection, LLC, has been providing clients the knowledge and proven experience required for residential and commercial inspection needs. Bill started performing home inspections in the 1980s for friends and colleagues. The business, originally named Insight Home Inspection, LLC, mainly focused on residential inspections. The new name reflects an expanded capability to provide more inspection services for clients interested in purchasing both commercial and residential properties. Bill’s expertise in the inspection industry comes from his educational background and experience in construction and safety management. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Construction Engineering Technology and previously worked as an Inspector and Risk Management Expert for NASA. Combining this education, experience, and knowledge, Bill provides the most thorough inspections available in the industry. He also possesses the expertise and equipment to help clients solve problems relating to water intrusion, energy loss, and other building troubles. "We provide a valuable service to protect clients who are counting on us to identify problems," Bill states. "It’s gratifying for me to help them. A real estate purchase for most people is the biggest investment in their lives and I want to help ensure their finances aren’t severely impacted by the condition of the building or home." Insight Building Inspection uses the latest technological advancements, such as an infrared camera. This technology allows Insight Building Inspection to simultaneously capture both visual and infrared images. These images can be perfectly overlaid, providing precise depictions of areas that are usually not visible. "These pictures add greatly to the understanding of the defects identified by the infrared images," Bill says. "This technology can be applied to both water intrusion and heat loss problems." Insight Building Inspection sets itself apart by being an independent inspection firm. "We are objective and work for the sole benefit of our client, who is typically the buyer. Our goal is to provide the best inspections and the highest quality reports to ensure clients understand the condition of the home or building so that major issues can be addressed." Bill’s wife, Deanna, is a partner in the business, is a certified thermographer and provides IT and marketing support. The newest member of the team is Jim Keeling. Jim brings 18 years of residential construction experience to the inspection business and will focus primarily on residential inspections. Bill is licensed in the state of Alabama, is certified with the American Society of Home Inspectors®, and is a certified thermographer. He is involved in his profession at both state and national levels, and has worked extensively in Alabama to raise the standards for professional home inspectors. Bill attended numerous Alabama Building Commission meetings in Montgomery and met with Governor Riley supporting Errors and Omissions insurance and competency testing for home inspectors. Bill was selected in 2002 and again in 2007 by the Examination Board of Professional Home Inspectors as one of 12 expert home inspectors nationwide to define the practice of home inspection in the Role Delineation Study used to validate the National Home Inspector Exam. "It’s my goal to leave this profession better than I found it and I’m proud of the work I’ve done in the state and nationally through the EBPHI," Bill comments. Contact Info:
Since 1993, The Printer Connection (TPC) has experienced substantial growth – over 20% in 2006 by offering compatible printer cartridges and equipment sales and service. In preparation for this growth, TPC moved into its current 12,000-square foot headquarters eight years ago. This facility houses a showroom, corporate offices, manufacturing areas, a full service department, and warehouse. The company is currently working on obtaining ISO 9001:2000 Certification. With offices in Huntsville and Birmingham, TPC serves central and northern Alabama and southern Tennessee. A few of TPC’s many clients include Decatur General Hospital, SAIC, Dynetics, and Teledyne Brown. TPC’s specialty is manufacturing PrintSMART® printer/copier/fax toner cartridges. Each cartridge is pre-tested and post-tested and fully guaranteed to meet or exceed OEM (nationally branded) cartridges at 35% to 50% savings. To date, the company has shipped almost a half million compatible cartridges and is the largest manufacturer in this industry in a four state area. "We’re all working together to constantly improve our processes to assure that our customers realize OEM performance in ‘real world’ printing applications. Our customers also enjoy the reduced costs," says Johnny Green, Production Manager. TPC also offers OEM supplies, provides free delivery/pick-up of cartridges, and purchases empty cartridges. A leading industry magazine recently noted that more than 300 million printer cartridges are dumped into landfills every year, the equivalent weight of 30,500 African elephants. By recycling the outer plastic shell, PrintSMART® products help customers conserve energy and natural resources while reducing waste. "Many of our customers, both large and small, work with us to implement a print and supply strategy that saves them operating costs and reduces their environmental impact on the communities where we live, work and play," says Kevin Donley, Director of Business Development. TPC is an Authorized Xerox Sales and Service Center and offers affordable leasing programs on its Phaser color printers, copiers, and multifunction machines. "Our association with Xerox Corporation is an important part of our future business model," says Craig Cheek, company President. Additionally, TPC is an Authorized Sales and Service Provider for Hewlett Packard, Okidata, Brother, Canon, Epson, and Samsung imaging systems. The Printer Connection’s growth initiative is based on a strong industry trend toward Managed Print Services (MPS). Craig continues, "Customers have been accustomed to paying for copier supplies and maintenance on a cost per page basis. With today’s technology, entire printer networks can be managed in the same way by remotely monitoring printer error codes, supply status, etc." The PrintSMART® Advantage program is a Managed Print Services (MPS) program that maintains all imaging devices within a company’s network at substantial cost savings. Martin Kunz (CIO, Operon Biotechnologies Inc.) says, "We are using The Printer Connection’s MPS program for critical documentation with great success. Outsourcing supplies/maintenance and support of our network printing needs to TPC allows our IT staff to focus on the growth needs of our core business." "By outsourcing all their print and copy production supplies and maintenance to us, we improve our customers’ quality of life and save them money too," Director of Sales and Marketing, Tom Reynolds, concludes. "Let TPC put our experience and expertise to work for you!" Contact Info:
Look younger every day! As the founder and medical director of Fountain of Youth, Dr. Usha Nuthi proudly oversees the latest in non-surgical cosmetic procedures. "Demand has been great for our services because looking younger without downtime is the true Fountain of Youth," says Dr. Nuthi. Affordably priced improvements in facial skin laxity, laser rejuvenation, and facial fillers are always in high demand. "Innovations in medical treatments evolve so quickly that the treatments we use now are light years ahead of what was used just a few years ago," states Dr. Nuthi. "New laser technologies, treatment protocols, and medication improvements may surprise those of you who looked into non-surgical rejuvenation previously." "We show our age in more than just our face", Dr. Nuthi continues. "Hands and eyes show sun damage and skin laxity just as quickly." Eyes by Thermage is a non-surgical skin tightening treatment to correct excessive skin over the top and bottom eyelids. This treatment is the only non-surgical treatment for eyes available and is a single, no downtime treatment done in the office. "Our executive hand rejuvenation includes laser photorejuvenation treatment, one non-surgical skin tightening treatment, and a mild chemical peel, "says Dr. Nuthi. "This also requires no downtime. Ask about these and other revolutionary treatments to reverse the signs of aging." Top five favorites among clients include Botox, laser photorejuvenation and laser hair removal, facial fillers, and Thermage non-surgical skin tightening. Fountain of Youth also provides laser peels, chemical peels, depigmenting systems, and medical skin care. Anti-aging therapies are also available to increase your own endogenous growth hormone production. All of the dermal fillers and Botox are performed by a board certified physician. This is not only essential to assuring safe, consistent results, but also conforms to state medical guidelines. Contact Info: |
Rosenblum Realty has two properties in the upcoming Fall
Parade of Homes (sponsored by the Huntsville-Madison County Home Builders
Association) for people to tour. The first is a home at 104 Rivercrest
Circle in the Riverwalk subdivision located in the Riverton area. Built by
Glover Construction, this home features 3,250 square feet, five bedrooms,
three baths, a great room with built-in bookshelves and 12-foot ceilings, a
kitchen with work island, covered back porch, three-car garage, hardwood
floors, tile, sprinkler system, and brick with accented stone work on the
exterior. Also, the community features a pool and common grounds area.
The second property is located at 109 Angela Ridge Way in
the Angela’s Ridge subdivision in Hew Hope, developed and constructed by
Covenant Construction. This home provides country living that’s convenient
to Huntsville and Lake Guntersville. It features four bedrooms, three baths,
hardwood and tile floors, 9-foot smooth ceilings, Wellbourne cabinets, crown
molding, a covered porch, a master bedroom with trey ceiling, single line
fiber optics, and a full-brick exterior.
Lasting Relationships Through Dedicated Service
Creating the very best communities…
Customized Lawn Care Services for Residential and
Commercial Clients
Pioneering
Innovative Ideas and Capabilities
Average to Art’s unwavering commitment to the best
service can be seen in all of its artwork. A recent mural project the
company created was for the Huntsville Hospital Foundation’s pediatric
playground. "The finished project was a 66'x13' camp-themed mural including
hidden elements painted in it for children and parents to find," she
describes. "Some of the hidden elements in the mural include seven lady
bugs, the 26 letters of the alphabet, and Penny the Pig."
Where Food is a
Passion, but Service is a Crusade…Providing a Restaurant Dining Experience
in a Banquet Environment!
Expanding its Professional Services Throughout Alabama
and Tennessee
Valuing the Customers It
Serves
Expert Electrical Service
for All Seasons
Building Distinctive Homes
Offering Comparison Shopping in One Convenient Location
Polishing its
Processes as One of North Alabama’s Largest Stone Fabricators 
Guiding Organizations to
Their Goals with an Effective Process for Employee Retention and Recruiting
Our Goal is to Exceed Your Expectations
A Variety of
Fitness Solutions for All Ages 
Duell Law Firm, LLC Establishes a Huntsville Connection
The Most Important Policy is TRUST
Providing Residential and Commercial Clients with Insightful Knowledge
and Proven Experience
Dedicated to Customer
Service