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COVER STORY: Robert Glenn, Athens State University
Striving for Significance: Athens State University Selects
Dr. Robert Glenn as New President by Rob Phraner
 The search for Athens State University’s 36th president
didn’t require the skills of Sherlock Holmes to find the right person,
although new president Dr. Robert Glenn is an enthusiast of the famous
detective. “I have an entire room dedicated to Sherlock Holmes books and
memorabilia,” Dr. Glenn shares.
Athens State University (ASU), which has close to 20
buildings, offers 33 degrees, employs more than 200 faculty members, and
serves nearly 3,000 students, was in need of one new president. All clues
led to Dr. Glenn early in the search. He is the great-grandson of ASU’s 23rd
president, Edgar M. Glenn, who began presiding over ASU in 1898. “I’m proud
and honored to follow in his footsteps,” he says as he proudly shows off his
great-grandfather’s desk (with a family painting from a great aunt resting
upon it) just a few steps away from his office.
It became immediately evident to the search committee that
the expertise, experience, and background pointed to Dr. Glenn as their man.
He began his tenure as president August 4, 2008. Although born and raised in
Texas, Dr. Glenn has spent a number of years in Alabama. His roots run deep
in the state His great, great, great grandfather, James Elizabeth Glenn
(“Uncle Betsy”), was a Methodist missionary who founded Glennville, AL in
Russell County in 1835. “Uncle Betsy’s” grandson, Edgar, was born there and
became a circuit-riding preacher. He later helped begin what is now
Birmingham-Southern College before presiding over ASU more than a hundred
years ago. He went back into preaching on the circuit after his Athens State
tenure. Current President Glenn graduated from Birmingham-Southern in 1975,
becoming the fourth generation of Glenn’s to graduate there.
Dr. Glenn’s vision for ASU follows the unique vision for its
existence. “Athens State originally was a college for women who would not
have the means for an education normally,” Dr. Glenn explains. “They were
place-bound. The very existence of ASU is to give those an education that
normally would not get one. This follows the unique mission of the state,
which is for community colleges to create a viable path for people to get a
degree that otherwise wouldn’t.”
Dr. Glenn believes the university is not just a community
unto itself. He wants ASU and the Athens community to forge a relationship
that enriches everyone. “For example, we received a call from an Athens
Middle School teacher who stated that students at AMS are already talking
about dropping out and not attending college,” he states. “But it is
important to understand that you can’t drop out and get a good job. So we
are in the process of creating a mentoring program between ASU and the
Middle School.”
Dr. Glenn has been married to his wife, Laura, since 1978 has
three children: Lisa, Katie, and Carl. He is convinced that everyone can get
a college education if they persist to get it done. “It took me 15 years to
finish my PhD,” Dr. Glenn says. “People can do it if they persist.”
Dr. Glenn’s earned his PhD in counseling that has shaped his
vision in his various leadership roles. “My concentration is upon the
Individual Psychology of Alfred Adler centers on the concept ‘striving for
significance’,” he comments. “On the university level, as people strive for
significance, it helps them succeed and in turn helps the university to
prosper. And ASU is about people; we are in the people business. For
example, if a budget item comes up in a meeting, I ask, ‘How will this
affect the person behind the program?’”
Dr. Glenn continues, “Most universities are concerned with
success in terms of bigger, newer buildings and faculty-to-advanced degrees
ratios, etc. My concerns are about educational excellence—taking a student
from where they are to where they want to be. This is where ASU,
historically, has been at its best. I’ve had many alumni say to me, ‘If it
hadn’t been for Athens State…’ But these folks have persisted to get it
done. Each success story is a person who was striving for significance.”
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CrossPointe Church
CrossPointe Church Welcomes David Howard to its Staff
 Pastor John Dees, along with the
congregation at CrossPointe Church in Madison, is proud to welcome David
Howard to its staff as its new student pastor. David joined CrossPointe in
July 2008 and oversees the entire youth ministries (CrossFire) for children
in seventh through 12th grades. “David is an absolutely excellent
young man,” John explains. “He has great passion for the Lord and for
students. I’m impressed with the way he carries himself and the positive
role model he is for young people. David’s the type of man that any parent
would like for their son to grow to be. If I was a young person, I’d be
excited to be under his leadership.”
David, who is married to Carrie and who
have three children Hannah, Abigail, and Andrew, previously lived and worked
in Birmingham before joining CrossPointe. He graduated from Southeastern
Bible College and holds a Bachelor’s in Bible and Theology and a minor in
Christian Ministries. “Since I was a child, I’ve felt God calling me into
full-time service,” David says. “This ministry opened the door for me to
fulfill that calling and dream. My goal is to lead young people into a
deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. I want every student to know what
they believe, be able to articulate their faith, and to live their lives for
Christ by the time they finish high school.”
As the student pastor of CrossFire,
David delivers bold, Biblically sound messages that urge students to live
Godly lives. Some of David’s duties include overseeing the adult leadership,
student leadership, discipleship groups, and coordinating events. Each
Wednesday night, CrossFire HD provides students with an intense worship time
with solid biblical teaching. In addition to Wednesday nights, students meet
in homes for student-led Bible study: “Pure” for the ladies and “Going
Green” for the guys.
Additional youth activities include
attending “M Fuge”, Big Stuf summer camp, and Camp Winnataska. M Fuge is a
once-a-year, week-long program for senior high school students that’s held
in different states each year. The children that attend perform mission work
and learn biblical teachings throughout the week. Big Stuf is a week-long
summer camp in Panama City, FL, that has all the bells and whistles of high
technology along with bible teachings that is presented on a grand stage
with amazing worship artists. Camp Winnataska is a yearly discipleship
weekend held in North Alabama for children in seventh grade and up.
In the future, CrossPointe is looking
at expanding into a new facility and hopes to have a Youth Center for
after-school activities. “My personal goal for the ministry is to create a
desire and hunger for God that is currently missing in the lives of
teenagers today,”
John adds, “The number one goal for us
is to be committed to developing devoted disciples of Jesus Christ. We look
forward to reaching young people that the Lord wants us to reach. Then, our
call is to not just have a ministry of fun and games, but to truly develop
committed soldiers of the Kingdom of God.”
Contact Information:
CrossPointe Church
256.772.4463
www.crosspointefamily.org
Services: Sundays at 9am and 10:45am, Wednesdays at 6pm
On ZTV-11 on Sundays at 7am and 8pm, Wednesdays at 7:30am and 10:30pm
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Attorney William G. Matthews
Bill Mathews
Practices Law and Baseball!
 There are
not many law offices where you could be discussing the details of your will
and hear a “thud” from under the floor. Or maybe you are reviewing the
closing costs of your new mortgage and “thud,” you hear it again. That’s
because there are not many lawyers who have a 60-foot, fully functional
batting cage in the basement of their practice. “I called around and I think
I’m the only law office in America with one of those,” Attorney William G.
Mathews says.
The
reason for Mathews is simple: his priority upon family influences his
practice and not the other way around. “My office is kid friendly,” he
explains. “I want folks to bring their children with them when they need to
see a lawyer.”
Mathews
spends his free time with his kids coaching baseball, soccer, and
basketball. The cage is just one example of how it allows him a chance to
spend time even while working. As Mathews counsels, the kids hone their
batting skills.
The
Mathews family also enjoys spinning their wheels – literally. “We enjoy
riding our bikes together,” Mathews comments. “Monte Sano Park has good
trails and we enjoy riding there. There is also a trail off of Weatherly in
Huntsville that goes right to the river. We like riding on that one, too.”
Mathews,
a native Athenian, returned home after graduating from Auburn University.
His office, adorned with Tiger memorabilia, reveals his Tiger loyalty. “But
I will represent Alabama fans if necessary,” a smiling Mathews says.
The law
office of William G. Mathews would be privileged to assist you with your
legal needs, such as real estate closings, wills and probate of wills, and
automobile accidents. If you go in and sit in one Mathews’ counseling rooms
and happen to hear a ‘thud’ from under the floor, you know you are in the
right place!
Contact Information:
William G. Mathews, Attorney at Law
256.232.2310
117 S. Marion Street
www.wmathewslaw.com
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Eddie Preuitt Ford
Eddie Preuitt
Ford: North Alabama’s Program and Pre-owned Car Headquarters
 For nearly 25 years, Eddie
Preuitt Ford in Hartselle has been North Alabama’s headquarters for program
and pre-owned vehicles. Eddie Preuitt Ford is a family owned and operated
business that started in 1985 after Eddie and a family member purchased the
dealership from the Nicholson family. “We’re truly a family business as my
brothers and my two sons are a part of the business,” Eddie states. “We’re a
small dealership that treats you right with no high-pressure programs to
make you buy a car.”
Members of the Preuitt family
working at the dealership include Eddie’s brothers, Gene and Alton, and
Eddie’s sons, Trent and Jason. Gene started working part time in 1985 and is
now a full-time sales associate. Alton is the service manager and has been
with the company for at least 15 years. Trent is a sales associate and Jason
focuses on Internet sales and is the finance and insurance manager. In
addition, many staff members have been with the family for several years,
such as Sales Associate Bob Russell, Service Advisor and Warranty Clerk
Sherry Buckelow, Parts Manager Tim Beck, and Assistant Parts Manager Danny
Skinner.
Customers looking for new Ford
cars, trucks, SUVs, and crossovers, as well as pre-owned vehicles, receive
top-quality service from its experienced team members. “We
have expertise when it
comes to your vehicle, which means your service or maintenance will be
performed promptly and done correctly,” he states. “We carry genuine Ford
and Motorcraft parts; our technicians are factory trained specialists on
Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles; and we have competitive prices on
everything your vehicle needs.”
Eddie Preuitt Ford’s growth over
the years can be attributed to its philosophy of treating the customer
right. “Our loyal customers, who either come back to us or refer us to
others, have helped us through rougher times,” Eddie explains. “I’ve been
doing this since 1975 and it’s something I never get tired of doing. It may
start out as us selling a vehicle, but in the end we are building
relationships.”
Client Jamie Cooper of ZTV-11
states, "My relationship with Eddie has been more than just as a client.
I’ve been extremely fortunate to have had Eddie Preuitt Ford as a consistent
advertiser for practically 20 years. He truly is a great friend of mine and
my parents. They would never purchase a car or truck from anyone other than
Eddie Preuitt! He is the most honorable person we've ever done business
with. That says it all!"
Eddie Preuitt Ford has been
recognized with several Ford service awards for its customer service and
sales. “We are a two-time, presidential award winner for customer service
and satisfaction,” Eddie says. “This is the highest award that Ford gives.
Our ongoing service recognition has been consistent with our focus of taking
care of the customer beyond the sale and even after the warranty expires.”
With its focus on taking care of
its customers and offering top-quality products, Eddie Preuitt Ford looks
forward to maintaining its status as North Alabama’s program and pre-owned
car headquarters for at least 25 more years to come!
Contact Information:
Eddie Preuitt Ford
710 Highway 31 NW
Hartselle, Alabama 35640
256.773.2578
www.eddiepreuitt.com
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Cornerstone Entertainment, LLC
 When the world gets overwhelming
or someone needs a fresh perspective on life, they can look for a new
program that currently has 15 new episodes in post production, Give a
Living Rose. This optimistic new television show is the brainchild of
Monya Claborn, President of Cornerstone Entertainment, LLC. Monya tells of
how people leave cut roses on caskets after someone special passes. She
thinks it is more important to tell the people “thank you” while they are
still living with a “living rose.”
The series is about gratitude
and people telling one another “thank you” for the things they have done.
Cornerstone is excited about sharing heartwarming stories from celebrities
and every-day people alike.
In one episode of the show,
Kelly Lang, Nashville songwriter and performer and the host of the
television show, shares the story about the person in her life that was a
rock of strength for her. Boyfriend and internationally known Country
Western Singer TG Sheppard was in Kelly’s life when she suffered through
breast cancer. Even as Kelly tried to push him away due to her illness, he
refused to leave her side. They are now happily married.
Another story features Gold
Medal Olympian and sports announcer, Scott Hamilton, as he gives thanks to
his Olympic skating coach Don Laws. Laws thought the cameras were a part of
a special program about Hamilton. During a steak dinner, he was shocked to
find out that the entire event was all about him.
Country singer Vince Gill has
his own story to share as he thanks the wife of his mentor, friend, and
longtime steel guitarist, John Hewy. Other guests include Phil Bredesen,
Governor of Tennessee; and First Lady, Andrea Conte; Alabama Football coach
Nick Saban; Alabama Coach Gene Stallings; Alabama Gymnastics Coach Sarah
Patterson; and many more.
A few “every-day” people stories
include:
Roy Hallums who was
buried alive in Iraq for 311 days and he gives thanks to the FBI agent
who found him.
A family whose beloved dog
was lost in Tennessee and found and safely returned by a veterinarian in
Georgia.
A special needs Cheerleader
Squad, The Raptors, which has won numerous national awards.
A minister who started a
summer camp for children in South Alabama.
And many more.
Each one of these stories will
show that it does not matter who you are in the world, a kind word, a warm
smile, a simple thank you or a simple nod could change someone’s day. That
is what Give a Living Rose and its parent company, Cornerstone
Entertainment, is committed to do—inspire people to show kindness and
encouragement to one another. The series is about saying “thank you” in a
profound way; the expression punctuated by an enduring gift—the splendor of
the living rose.
Monya created the concept of
Giving a Living Rose for her experiences as a minister’s daughter in the
South when she decided to put together a cookbook for her mother from all
the people her parents served throughout the years. Monya was amazed at the
outpouring of thoughtfulness and cooperation she received. But most
significantly, she was overwhelmed by the emotional personal letters that
accompanied all of the recipes. There were letters of humor, praise, and
above all, gratitude. Monya’s entire family was moved by the flood of
emotion in the letters they received. But the letters also yielded a
surprising gift to her family when her mother developed Alzheimer’s disease
and they were preparing for the imminent loss of their beloved matriarch.
The letters recreated many of the most cherished moments of Monya’s mother’s
life.
In her lucid moments, Monya’s
mother now had an opportunity to relive the best years of her life through
the words of people who so cherished her. Monya feels these letters were the
best gifts her mother could have received in her final years on Earth. “This
is a reality series designed to celebrate the resiliency of the human spirit
and moreover, the special people in our lives who give of themselves
unconditionally in our time of need,” Monya says.
Featuring celebrities and
ordinary people alike, Give a Living Rose is an entertaining and
inspirational program with a positive message; express your love and
gratitude to the important people in your life, today. Give a Living Rose is
a celebration of the “attitude of gratitude” and the tremendous, enriching
power of grateful living. Show participants and viewers alike are empowered
to live each day in the appreciation of the simple things and the special
people with whom they share love and laughter.
Give a Living Rose’s web site is
where people can share their stories of gratitude, view previous show
episodes, and learn more about the crew. When telling stories, people can
share their gratitude toward anyone—from a complete stranger who helped
during a crucial time of need to the teacher that saw through their rough
exterior and challenged to bring out their true potential for success. The
show is looking for stories that will allow a person to thank someone for
something special that has happened in their life. “Please visit our web
site and tell us your story,” Monya states.
Give a Living Rose is currently
airing on Blue Highways TV and on My Family TV bringing its total reach to
more than 24,000,000 viewers.
Cornerstone Entertainment was
formed in 2007 with the desire to bring family friendly entertainment back
into people’s homes. Cornerstone creates television programs, web site
material (some interactive), books, and other merchandise, that portrays,
promotes, and supports living a life of gratitude and expressing thanks to
others. Its product sales model focuses on using various products and media
to promote its other products and services while enhancing the overall brand
awareness. Products are developed with a spirit of gratitude aimed at its
customers. Overall, Cornerstone’s desire is a spirit of gratitude to be felt
by everyone with whom they come in contact.
Contact Information:
Cornerstone Entertainment
256.216.3456
www.givealivingrose.com; for updates on where you can watch the show.
Top of page
Jamie Cooper
Rantin' with
Rover
 Butt
naked, a pair of tennis shoes with socks, long hair, a camera, and a tripod
in 1980, a 27-year old at work at one of the hundreds of interesting stories
that are known as the Country Rover. I’m Jamie Cooper…and yes,
there’s a “nude” hanging in our living room in Athens of this very story.
The nudist camp up in Murfreesboro was just one of several hundreds of
featured stories known as the Country Rover that I did for many years
at Channel 31 and the last I heard the camp was still open.
The Country Rover was not
only my job it was my life—and even today, everyday, when someone mentions a
Country Rover story…I’m honored! Maybe I should do some new ones,
huh? Folks ask all the time. People might be just a little bit harder to
find these days, though!
Actually, when I started in the
television business at Huntsville Educational Television, I brought home
about $300 a month. Adrian Gibson, Channel 31, hired me in the fall 1975 for
$2.50 per hour. I had finally, after a earning my Junior College degree in
broadcasting and working on a garbage truck and ETV, had hit the big time!
After wrestling a bear on live
TV (the only person ever), flying with the Thunderbirds, while accidentally
eating my lunch again…several times…and traveling 600 to 700 miles per hour
in an airforce jet, I survived. Most of those stories obviously took place
while I was much younger. I discontinued the Country Rover on Channel
31 in Huntsville in summer 1992. Let me just say my contract negotiations
with Channel 31 didn’t go in my favor. The Smith family that owned Channel
31 was wonderful to work for. I literally had the best job in the world.
After leaving Channel 31 I
bought time in Birmingham, Florence, and Huntsville markets. My second trip
to Florence, by that time, I had met the love of my life (Ya’ll know her as
Gloria)! After a few failed attempts previously, finally a true partner!
After producing morning shows on other stations, Bill Dunnavant gave us a
call and asked us to take a look at his station in the basement of WZYP
studios in Athens. We took a look and thanks to Bill and Reliance Bank,
we’ve owned ZTV 11 for more than five years.
No one is more thankful at this
phase in their life than me. 55 years old, 35 years of doing the same thing
and to quote an old saying, "the best way to be successful is to do
something you love". And no one has loved their job for the past 35 years
more than I have!
Also, no one has been in local
television longer than me or on the air. I have been truly blessed…despite
some of my own actions in the past! Gloria, publisher of this magazine, is
not only the love of my life, but my best friend and loyal business partner!
We believe that even in this time of instant gratification with all sorts of
electronic gadgets (which by the way, I only use a phone); there is a place
for a TV station that focuses on the local community and voices a real
opinion. A station like the one right here in Athens. A station like ZTV11,
one that truly is Local and Lovin’ it!
Thanks to all
of you for watching and remember the true history of North Alabama through
the eyes or lens rather of a country boy from New Hope, AL. If you happen
to have an idea for a County Rover story, just let Gloria know...she'll tell
me what to do—she always does!
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Athens Convalescent and Rehab Center
 At Athens Convalescent and Rehab
Center, quality is a tradition! The facility was originally established in
1966 and has been locally owned and operated by John Wallace since 1979.
“Our focus is on quality care,” Licensed Social Worker and Admissions
Coordinator Sara Wallace states. “We are here to help those in need and
provide residents with a variety of different levels of care in their
recovery process. Not only are we dedicated to the patient’s well being, we
also provide a support system for the families.”
The facility offers residents a variety
of services for either long- or short-term care. Each resident’s plan for
recovery is directed by an on-site physician with input from the resident’s
family.
Athens Convalescent and Rehab Center
focuses on providing top-quality medical and physical rehabilitation for
people in need of additional care and support following an illness or
injury. Its post-hospitalization care features on-site physical,
occupational, and speech therapy; IV therapy; rehabilitative nursing;
specialized wound care; and discharge planning. “We’ve offered the rehab
services with our highly qualified therapists and staff for many, many
years, but most people don’t know we have them,” Sara explains. “Our rehab
goal is to return the resident to their home as soon as possible.”
The staff includes registered nurses,
licensed practitioners, certified nurse’s assistants, licensed social
workers, and licensed physical, occupational, and speech therapists, and a
registered dietician. The professional nursing staff provides residents with
support in their daily activities of living through personal care assistance
with bathing, feeding, dressing; and medication management.
In addition, the Athens Convalescent
and Rehab offers meaningful activities and programs with a state and
nationally certified activities director, social services care planning,
volunteer programs, special outings, religious services, family events,
beauty and barber services, and nutritional meals and special diet
monitoring.
“Come see us,” Sara says. “We will be
glad to show you our facility and discuss any needs or questions you have.”
Contact Information:
Athens Convalescent and Rehab Center
611 West Market St.
Athens, AL 35611
256.232.1620
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Athens City Councilman Jimmy Gill
Dedicated
Service to Athens
 Athens City District 3
Councilman Jimmy Gill has been serving the Athens community with his
dedication of excellence since 1992. Serving in his fifth term, Jimmy
focuses on helping the citizens in his district and the city of Athens with
a variety of things, such as paving roads, cleaning up abandoned or
overgrown houses, constructing new buildings, and creating safer
neighborhoods. “I grew up here and decided to try politics to make a
difference,” Jimmy explains. “I’m proud of the people in District 3 and I’m
honored to serve them.”
Over his tenure, Jimmy has been
a part of many projects to improve the quality of Athens, such as paving 15
streets and cleaning up houses in District 3. City-related projects include
the initiation of having police officers drive their patrol cars home to
deter violence and crime in neighborhoods, purchasing three new fire trucks,
building new police station and fire department buildings, instituting
holidays (observance of Martin Luther King, Jr.) for city employees, and
recognizing city employees.
In honor of Jimmy’s service, the
City has named a park after him. Jimmy W. Gill
Park is located at Sanderfer Road and Hine Street. It offers a playground,
walking track, baseball practice fields, and a pavilion with kitchenette.
The park’s open to citizens and can be reserved for functions. “This honor
was a surprise and I’m pleased to be able to be a part of this extraordinary
community,” he states.
Jimmy is married to Deborah.
Together they have three children and he’s involved in local organizations
and charities. He’s on the board of directors for Retired Senior Volunteer
People (RSVP), part of the Top of Alabama Regional Council, on the North
Central Mental Health Board, member of the Limestone County Hall of Fame,
and a member of the Oak Grove Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. In
addition, Jimmy’s a supporter of Relay For Life as he’s a three-year throat
cancer survivor.
Contact Information:
Councilman Jimmy Gill
PO Box 1089
Athens, AL 35611
256.232.0591
jgill@athensal.us
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Jan Vinita White, PhD
Aging
Authority, Family Focus
 For more than five years, Jan
Vinita White, PhD has been the Tennessee Valley’s aging authority with
comprehensive aging consulting for older adults, baby boomers, and families.
“Why hire a gerontologist?” Dr. White asks. “We hire personal trainers.
Golfers hire pros to improve their swing, parents hire tutors for their
children, and yet we never think to hire an aging expert.”
As the only gerontologist in
private practice in North Alabama, Dr. White provides ethical, affordable,
and confidential counseling and assessment services, such as retirement and
relocation counseling, distance counseling and telephonic family meetings,
caregiver and concerned family member counseling, ADReS Driving Assessment
for older adults, state-of-the-art memory and depression screening, and
educational seminars and guest speaking appointments. In addition to her
practice, she is teaches college courses and is an instructor for the
Society of Certified Senior Advisors ® and the Alabama Board of Nursing.
Because so many families are
geographically distanced, Dr. White has specialized training in distance
counseling and coordinates the details for the group conference call. She
establishes ground rules and boundaries to preempt disagreements, then
collectively develop a resolution. “Common scenarios are relocation issues,
long-term care placement, moving in with an adult child, adding onto the
existing home, and dysfunctional communication styles that are harmful to
the older adult,” she states. “I’m the objective voice of reason. I don’t
take sides.”
Dr. White meets most of her
clients in her office. With her specialized training, she’s able to
administer numerous geriatric assessments to aid in the diagnosis and
treatment plan. Her assessments compliment a medical diagnosis, evaluating
the physical, mental, and social aspects of aging. “Generally we can resolve
an issue in one or two appointments,” White says. “Sometimes it’s a
challenge, as families are often guarded about aging issues, especially
dementia and Alzheimer’s, and are reluctant to seek another opinion.”
When to retire from driving is a
major decision for older adults and their families. Dr. White offers the
ADReS Driving Assessment for Older Adults, developed jointly by the National
Transportation Safety Administration and the American Medical Association
and has received training in the most current update of this evaluation.
“This is the most accurate assessment available for gerontologists,” she
explains. “It takes about one hour and is affordable. In addition, I counsel
the family and if driving cessation is recommended, develop plans for
remaining independent.”
Dr. White will not administer
the evaluation to any person age 90 and over, as reaction time is greatly
impaired among that age group.
What gave Dr. White her
determination to succeed was her fight with breast cancer. “When I was
diagnosed, I reassessed my whole life,” White recalls. “Cancer kept me
going…I was determined to live and I had to have that PhD. It was a
springboard to where I am today and I thank God every day for it!”
Dr. White has an extensive
educational and professional background and holds doctoral, master's, and
baccalaureate degrees, as well as various accredited certifications that
illustrate her focus as the aging authority with a family focus.
Contact Information:
Jan Vinita White, PhD
Fletcher Building, 475 Providence Main St.
Huntsville, AL 35806
agelearn@yahoo.com
256.489.OLDR [6537]
www.janvwhiteagedoc.com
By Appointment Only
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Clements Baptist Church
A Common Man’s
Church
 For almost 15 years, Clements
Baptist Church has been focused on worshipping the Lord with folks from all
walks of life. “We’re a common man’s church,” Pastor Tim Anderson says. “We
believe everyone is welcome in the house of God. Our church is very diverse
with people from all different backgrounds, but they all have one thing in
common…love for our God.”
Pastor
Anderson has been with the church since its inception. "Our ministry exists
to worship our God and to provide a place of hope and belonging," he states.
"There is a spirit of expectancy and a great atmosphere of hope and promise
that is offered upon this campus."
Clements Baptist Church consists
of 1,200 congregation members and averages 700 people during services. To
support its congregation, the church recently completed the construction on
a new 1,100-theatre seat auditorium. The building offers additional
education space, reception areas, large conference room, and an orchestra
and choir suite. “We believe the people define the building, rather than the
building defining the people,” Anderson explains.
The first facility will remain
and be renovated to accommodate new space for its preschool and children’s
ministries. In between the two buildings is a new secure, state-of-the-art
children’s play area featuring a playground with foam walking material.
“This is a great place for parents to bring their children to play and join
in fellowship with others,” he says.
In addition to its children’s
ministries, Clements Baptist Church has a special needs ministry. Once a
month, on Friday nights from 6-9p.m., the church offers a “Night of Respite”
for parents and caregivers. Highly trained volunteers are on hand to help.
Clements Baptist Church worship
times include 8:30a.m. Sunday School, 10a.m. Sunday Morning, and 6p.m.
Sunday Night. In addition, the church holds a Wednesday night worship
service at 6:30p.m., as well as Bible study, AWANA, choir and orchestra
practice, and discipleship classes.
Contact
Information:
Clements Baptist Church
8690 Highway 72 West
Athens, AL 35611
256.729.1328
CBCinfo@clementsbaptist.org
www.clementsbaptist.org
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Keller Williams Realty, Inc.
Expanding to
Serve Athens and Limestone County
 In
today’s uncertain times, one thing is certain…Keller Williams Realty, Inc.
continues to grow. So much so that it is now serving the Athens and
Limestone County community with a new office in downtown Athens. The grand
opening of Keller Williams Realty – West Branch Business Center was held
in April.
Qualifying Broker Jan Scott and Team Leader Jim Hoekenschnieder will be
overseeing the Keller Williams Realty business center, which is a
full-service company with more than 40 combined years of agent and staff
experience. Jan, who has 30 years of real estate experience in Madison and
Limestone County, is excited to be a part of the Athens community. “We’re
happy to be a part of Athens and its small-town and friendly atmosphere,”
Jan states. “The office is located close to the Square and we have 25 agents
working here. We’re proud of the way we do business and very excited about
entering the Athens market.”
Keller
Williams Realty also has offices in Madison and Huntsville that all work
together to provide clients with top-quality services. The company sets
itself apart from many
real estate companies with its structure for success, its professional and
educated agents, and its training. “I’m glad to be a part of Keller Williams
as we have quality agents, training, technology, and professionalism,” she
explains. “Keller Williams Realty puts God first, family second, and
business third.”
The company was
co-founded in 1983 by Chairman of the Board Gary Keller and partner Joe
Williams and has become the
third-largest real estate franchise in the United States. According to Steve
Murray of REAL Trends, a leading source of analysis and information in the
residential real estate industry, Keller Williams Realty claimed this spot
with 72,794 U.S. associates at the end of 2008.
“The
success of Keller Williams can be directly attributed to the hard work and
perseverance of our associates and the soundness of our economic and
organizational models,” CEO Mark Willis says. “While others might be looking
at this market and seeing fear and uncertainty, we have always approached it
as our opportunity to shine and grow. And that mindset has paid off.”
Keller
Williams Realty is a learning-based company that offers cutting-edge
training to its associates through Keller Williams University. Its
industry-unique, agent-centric business model includes profit sharing and
agent leadership councils that participate in company-wide decisions.
The interdependent
business model supports agents and brokers working as a team to maximize
personal productivity and company profits. Profit share is one significant
way Keller Williams recognizes associates for growing the company.
Participating agents receive financial rewards for bringing other
individuals to the company and then share in the profits generated by the
entire office. To assist agents further, the recently
launched
Keller Williams Health Providers Program will include options for major
medical, limited medical, catastrophic coverage, and a separate cancer plan.
With all
these benefits, Keller Williams is set to grow and serve the Madison and
Limestone communities. “Athens is a growing area and we look forward to
selling commercial and residential properties for our clients for many years
to come,” Jan concludes.
Contact Information:
Keller Williams West Branch Business Center
300 W. Green Street
Athens, AL
www.kw.com
Jan Scott, 256.603.6994 (Athens office)
Jim Hoekenschnieder, 256.337.3217 (Madison office)
Robert Simons (Huntsville office)
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Grayson Bailey Landscaping
Design & Lawn
Maintenance: Quality in Every Job
 For Owner
Grayson Bailey of Grayson Bailey Landscaping – Design & Lawn Maintenance,
quality is the focus for every job. “We focus on doing things the right
way,” Grayson explains. “For 20 years, we’ve put the highest quality of
workmanship into each client’s yard and our work speaks for itself.”
The company
offers a variety of landscaping services that include designing, building,
installing, and maintaining yards. Grayson Bailey Landscaping provides plant
installation, arbors, patios, outdoor lighting, custom pavers and rock
walls, waterfalls, ponds, outdoor kitchens, flagstone walkways, and just
about anything in your back yard. In addition, it also uses lots of colors
and flowers, mixes in evergreens, and uses patios and walkways to contrast
with the flowers. When a customer first contacts Grayson, he schedules a
meeting and goes over what they are looking for in their yard or property,
listen closely to needs and budget, and then draws up plans.
Grayson has a
solid customer base. Customers Mike Medlen and Lori Fielder are just two of
many. Grayson landscaped Mike’s yard and currently maintains the property.
“Grayson did everything at my home…from design to installation to
maintenance,” Mike states. “If you would have seen my yard to begin with,
you would know that it’s an unbelievable transformation! The yard is slopped
and Grayson tailored the landscaping around it. He designed a rock wall out
front and put a stacked stone wall through half of it. At the top of the
yard are flowerbeds and shrub and at bottom is grass. Grayson made it look
fantastic.”
Mike
continues, “Grayson and his staff are accessible and very nice. He was the
best investment for my yard. I receive compliments from out-of-town people
and neighbors who just fall in love with my yard and what Grayson did.”
Lori adds,
“Grayson is absolutely the best at what he does. People would come to my
door and ask who did our yard. He added warmth and curb appeal to the house.
Grayson has designed and maintained two of our properties…one in town and
one at the river. We recently sold the house in town, and moved to the river
and I’m sure Grayson’s work sold the house! Grayson and his staff currently
maintain our river house and they go over and above what you would expect.
You get a lot more work out of them then what you pay for. Grayson listens
to you and your ideas and then adds to it and makes it look wonderful.”
With lawn
maintenance, the company offers customized packages, pricing, and services
to fit each client’s needs. Services include grass cutting on a weekly,
biweekly, or monthly basis; weeding; trimming; pruning; remulching;
fertilizing; and seasonal services."
What sets
Grayson Bailey Landscaping apart is its quality in every job. "We do things
differently and take our time," Grayson comments. "We focus on doing the
basics right. The bitterness of poor quality lingers long after the
sweetness of a good price! I feel that a poor job outlasts the price of a
quality job and you get what you pay for with us. Our quality shows in our
dedication to clients and in their yards.”
Contact
Information:
Grayson Bailey Landscaping – Design & Lawn Maintenance
256.232.5004
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Athens-Limestone Public Library
Building For the Future
 Along with the growth of Athens and
Limestone County is the growth of the Athens-Limestone Public Library, which
is building for the future. The current library opened in 1970, was built
for 20 years growth, and is now too small to house all the books, materials,
and staff needed to better serve the community.
To accommodate its growth, the library
has found a new home in the former Kroger building that the City purchased.
To help pay for the building’s renovations, the Athens-Limestone Public
Library Foundation, a 501(c)(3), was established where individuals and
businesses can contribute tax deductible donations. “We’re excited about the
new building, but mainly excited about all the things we can do in a bigger
space,” Director Susan Todd states.
The library serves 74,000 people and
more than 250 per day. It has grown so much that there is very little quiet
space for patrons, there are no community meeting rooms, and there are not
enough computers. “The new building will have four times the space we have
now,” Susan explains. “Currently, we have to move shelves and computers to
have enough space for programs and then put it all back before the next day.
We’ll have approximately 38,427 square feet and more space for storage and
seating. Our vision is to include meeting rooms, sitting areas, quiet study
rooms, and a computer lab, as well as more space for books and AV
materials.”
The library features books, newspapers,
magazines, CDs, DVDs, computers with current office software and Internet
access, electronic and downloadable e-audio books, remote catalog access,
Wi-Fi inside and outside the building, Pre-school story time, fax and copier
machines, and provides access to the Alabama Virtual Library (AVL), Homework
Help Online, Learning Express Library, and the Connecting Families program.
In addition, it offers Books-by-Mail for homebound patrons and book
discussion groups…among so much more.
AVL is a statewide program through
libraries and schools that’s funded with state taxes. It is a collection of
shared databases on a variety of topics, such as auto repair and scholastic
and medical knowledge that’s available at the library and remotely. The
Homework Help Online provides students and parents with real-time tutors
with help on all subject matters. Learning Express Library is a battery of
practice tests for GED, Firefighters, Real Estate, Cosmetology, and more.
Upcoming summer events include reading
programs in June and July on Tuesdays and Thursdays and a visiting author
series. One of the authors will be Graphic Novel Author and Artist Gareth
Hinds who’s well-known for his reinvention of classic literature with
graphic images. In addition, the Library will also be showcasing a class
with a video game designer on Saturday, June 13. This workshop is geared
toward teens and adults and interested attendees must preregister as space
is limited to 25 people.
To contribute to building the future
Athens-Limestone Public Library, go to
www.iGive.com/ALPL and designate Athens-Limestone Public Library as your
charity of choice or contribute monetary donations to the Athens-Limestone
Public Library Foundation.
Contact Information:
Athens-Limestone Public Library
405 East South St.
Athens, AL 35611
(256) 232-1233
www.athenslimestone.lib.al.us
Library Hours: Monday, 1p.m.-6p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday, 10a.m.-8p.m.;
Wednesday, 10 a.m.-6p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10a.m.-5p.m.
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Courtesy First Home Lenders
Commitment to
Excellence, Determination, and Dedication
 At the
heart of Courtesy First Home Lenders (CFHL) are three things: Commitment to
excellence, determination, and dedication. All three of these attributes are
required to complete a grueling 140.6 mile iron man triathlon, just as
Courtesy First Home Lenders loan originator Keith Balch did recently in
Panama City Florida. It was a personal challenge Keith took seriously
because he knew that to complete the race it would take months of training
and overcoming obstacles.
In the
same way, the entire staff at CFHL takes its commitment to its customers
seriously. “It is our responsibility to provide the best products available
in today’s changing and challenging mortgage world,” Balch states. “That is
why we took the time and the training necessary to become HUD approved in
August so that we can offer FHA financing for purchasing and refinancing
homes. This is a government guaranteed program that has been highly
successful since its inception in 1934.”
In
addition, CFHL has also become VA approved and is set up with numerous
lenders to offer the rural housing program, another government backed option
with 100% financing and no PMI. “With the restrictions and revisions that
have made numerous changes in the type loans Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac can
now offer, we felt it incumbent upon us to pursue additional options for our
customers,” he explains.
CFHL provides
a variety of loans and programs to fit any need, such as 100% financing,
Jumbo Loans, and Interest Only Loans. CFHL can also help customers with past
credit problems, first-time homebuyers are welcome, and there is no
application fee.
What sets
CFHL apart is not only its experienced staff (70 years of combined
experience), but also its philosophy that courtesy is common! "We treat
everyone with the dignity and respect they deserve,” Balch says. “We stay
true to this philosophy by being committed to excellence and having
determination and dedication.”
Contact Information:
Courtesy First Home Lenders
256.216-0202
gbalch@courtesymortgage.biz
www.mycfhl.com
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Tracy Fulks
Tracy Fulks of ZTV-11 and Who’s Who
in Athens Magazine is the Woman You Need to Know to Help Your Business Grow!
 Tracy Fulks, Director of Sales &
Marketing for ZTV-11 and Who’s Who in Athens magazine is the woman
you need to know in Athens to promote your business. Tracy, who moved to
Athens more than 20 years ago has an extensive background in the broadcast,
print, and marketing areas that will be put to work for you. “With my
experience I know I can help your business grow by advertising in the local
market,” Tracy explains.
Tracy was born in Tuscaloosa and
graduated from the University of Alabama in 1987 with a degree in
Communications and Marketing. She moved to Athens in 1987 and worked at WTAK
and WDRM. Shortly after, she married Jeff Fulks and moved to Texas where her
son Justin was born. In 1990, they moved back to Athens where she gave birth
to their daughter Christian. Tracy worked many years with the elderly and
then went on to work as a sales consultant for a printing company. She was
also very active with the Greater Limestone Chamber of Commerce where she
served as a board member and Chairwoman of “Walk Thru The Past.” She worked
as a juvenile probation officer for several years before joining the ZTV-11
and Who’s Who in Athens magazine teams. “I’m thrilled to get back
into the community and use my talents again,” she states.
Her talents will work in partnership
with clients to promote their businesses. “The beauty of our magazine is
that you don’t have to buy it as we mail it to more than 10,000 homes and
distribute 5,000 more around Athens and surrounding areas giving it a
six-month shelf life,” Tracy states.
With ZTV-11, Tracy looks forward to
also increasing the station’s visibility and promoting more local businesses
and events. “I’m thrilled to be a part of the ‘Local and Lovin’ It’ team!”
Tracy says. “The station is already a vital part of the community and I’m
excited for the opportunity to be a part of this.”
Contact Information:
Tracy Fulks
(256) 497-0020
Tracy.Fulks@yahoo.com
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