COVER STORY: Dr. Stephanie Teichmiller

Dentistry with a woman's touch is celebrating changing smiles and lives for 15 years. This month's cover features Dr. Stephanie Teichmiller whose unique approach to the often "dreaded" dental appointment will have you totally relaxed and pampered. In a new state-of-the-art facility designed personally by Dr. Teichmiller, you can experience not only extreme smiles, but also extreme customer service.

Teichmiller says, "My goal was to take an experience that may be frightening for many people and turn it into a pleasurable experience for all." What an experience it is. You are actually greeted by name and welcomed into a reception area furnished comfortably like a great living room. There are no TVs; only great, relaxing music. There are no "dental smells"; only fabulous aromatherapy blends. Relax and enjoy yourself at the self-serve Cappuccino Bar and refreshment area stocked with the most tasty and healthiest treats. Are you a few minutes early for your appointment? Enjoy a complimentary massage from Jim Boyd, a Massage Therapist. After being escorted to the Treatment Suites, select one or all of the pampering amenities like a heated aromatherapy neck pillow or experience a lavender paraffin hand treatment, just to name a few.

Don't let all the fluff fool you. This team is dedicated to your oral health and has the training to prove it. This high-tech office sports chair side computers in every room with digital x-rays and smile enhancing capabilities. Dr. Teichmiller says, "The focus of the practice is to provide Comprehensive Dentistry, whether that is a cosmetic makeover, assistance with TMJ dysfunction, or the most gorgeous set of dentures you have ever seen." Dr. Teichmiller graduated as Turris Fidelis from the University of North Alabama with a liberal arts degree in Professional Biology, Chemistry, and Business. She is also an honors graduate of the University Of Alabama School Of Dentistry with a Doctor of Dental Medicine Degree. Dr. Teichmiller completed an Oral Pathology Fellowship and was awarded a prestigious International Association of Dental Research Award.

Dr. Teichmiller's post graduate training includes extensive study in Cosmetic Dentistry. She is a graduate of the Las Vegas Institute of Cosmetic Dentistry and uses these skills to give back to her community. Dr. Teichmiller was recently named the Official Dentist of the Miss Alabama Pageant. She was the first Dentist in Alabama to restore a smile through the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry's "Give Back a Smile" program. This program pairs an American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry dentist with a woman whose smile has been destroyed by domestic violence. Her other "signature" project is the nationally recognized Mission: Makeover. She orchestrated a team of professionals to donate their talents to provide an extreme makeover for a deserving lady with all the profits donated to charity.

So no matter what is holding you back, come let the excellent team of Dr. Teichmiller ease you into that beautiful smile that you know is there. Call (256) 350-5820 for your initial consultation today. Visit the office at 1316 Somerville Road SE, Suite 2 in Decatur, AL 35601 or visit the web site at www.alabamaclassicsmile.com or www.missionmakeover.com.

Girl Scouts: Building Futures

The Girl Scout program offers girls opportunities to try new things and to explore new adventures. These opportunities build a girl's courage to face new situations with confidence. This year alone, Girl Scouts ages 5-17 have gained new experiences in everything from spending a night away from home to completing a high ropes course. For each member, the courage gained in Girl Scouts is an attribute she'll carry throughout her life.

Girl Scouts gain confidence. Through the unique "by girl, for girl" leadership method, girls begin taking on leadership roles at an early age. It is the girls who determine their own program for the year. By taking an active leadership role, girls gain confidence in their ability make lead and to effect change.

Girl Scouts builds character. Developing moral and ethical strength as well as recognizing and meeting the needs of our community shapes the character of Girl Scouts. During her first moments as a Girl Scout, a girl makes a promise "to help people at all times." The fulfillment of this promise is evident in the multitude of ways troops serve their communities.

Girl Scouts creates connections. Teamwork is essential in Girl Scouts. Girls connect with each other, creating friendships that last a lifetime. By working together in a variety of situations, girls learn their own strengths as well as the strengths of the other troop members.

The Girl Scout program encourages increased skill building and responsibility, and promotes the development of strong leadership and decision-making skills. Girls can become the well-rounded, confident leaders of tomorrow.

For more information about Girl Scouts, contact Girl Scouts of North Alabama, Inc. at 883-1020 or visit our website at www.girlscoutsofnorthalabama.org.

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Downtown Rescue Mission

It costs nearly $6,000 a day to run the mission. One of the creative ways the DRM helps off set the costs of Alabama's largest Gospel rescue mission is through their Bargain Centers. The purpose of the stores is three fold. First, it provides good, quality merchandise to those on a fixed income. Second, it provides career development training and opportunities for the mission clients who work in the stores. Third, it creates an evangelism and discipleship atmosphere for the clients away from campus.

The stores have a program called "Wheels into Meals". The stores take donated cars, trucks, boats and RV's and sells them to the public. All the proceeds go back to the mission to help take care of its 150 homeless men, women and children that utilize the mission on a daily basis.

For more information on the Downtown Rescue Mission, contact the Downtown Rescue Mission at 2616 Spring Ave in Decatur, call (256) 536-2441or visit the website at www.downtownrescuemission.org.

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Veterinary Regional Referral Hospital

Improving Pets' Lives

Over the years, pets have become a member of the family and owners are looking for medical services to improve the quality of their pets' lives. Dr. Michael Newman of Veterinary Regional Referral Hospital specializes in spinal and joint surgery for general practice veterinarians, as well as the general public in the Tennessee Valley and offers unique services to help pets with specific medical conditions.

Newman established his practice in 1986 in Birmingham and later moved it to Decatur in 1994 when he got married to his wife who is also a veterinarian. "When I began my practice in 1986, there were only four private practice referral surgeons in the Southeast," he says.

Newman and his staff service clients mostly in the North Alabama and Southern Tennessee area, but also cover Corinth, MS to Nashville, as it is the only practice of its kind in the area. The hospital specializes in neurological surgery, especially the spinal column, orthopedic surgery for joints and fractures, as well as surgery for cancer conditions. "We strive to provide the best surgical and medical service that veterinary medicine can provide to both the referring veterinarian and the public," Newman says.

His education and training give him the knowledge to provide his patients with the best care. Newman is a graduate of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Auburn University with a doctorate in veterinary medicine and a master's degree in veterinary surgery. He also has a bachelor's degree in Zoology from North Carolina State University. Following his two residencies in Ohio, he was a staff member at the Veterinary College at Auburn University.

His staff consists of LPN and RN professionals, surgical assistants, emergency personnel, imaging service technicians and operating room technicians. All employees go through training, including classes through Calhoun Community College for the surgical assistants.

To provide even more specialized services to the community and his patients, Newman will be moving into a one-of-a-kind, state-of-the-art facility that provides CT scanning, the latest in medicine, ultrasound, radiologist, and a 24-hour emergency clinic. "The Tennessee Valley has been very supportive in making our practice successful so that our expansion is possible and necessary," he says, "The new building is only phase one and we plan to build on to it later."

Veterinary Regional Referral Hospital actively supports humane shelters in Huntsville and Decatur. "Our practice strongly emphasizes community involvement by all staff members," he says. Newman is a part of many organizations at the local, state and nation levels. He currently sits on the board for the Decatur Animal Services, is the chairman of the Human-Animal Bond committee for the Alabama Veterinary Medical Association and is on the executive board of that same organization, along with many other organizations to help improve our pets' lives. His patients know he cares as he has three dogs, eight cats, two horses, a pony, a donkey and a bird that he takes care of in his own family.

The hospital is located at 2117 Veterans Drive SE in Decatur and offers care to patients during regular business hours, as well as emergency care for seven-days-a week, 24-hours-a-day service. For more information on the Veterinary Regional Referral Hospital, contact (256) 350-7001 or at avs@bellsouth.net.

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Ferguson & Ferguson

"Protecting YOUR Personal Interests"

Sister and brother attorneys, Jackie Ferguson Graham and Randy Ferguson, call Morgan County home. They grew-up in Hartselle and graduated from Falkville High School. Together they founded the law firm Ferguson & Ferguson in Huntsville in 1993 and opened an office in Decatur in 1999.

Randy and Jackie moved to Tuscaloosa in the Fall of 1984 as Jackie began her first year of law school and Randy pursued his undergraduate degree. Randy's frequent contact with the law school while Jackie was in law school inspired him to also pursue a career as an attorney. Randy worked a summer with Jackie in Huntsville prior to taking his bar exam. After clerking with the presiding Circuit Court Judge in Huntsville, he returned to work with Jackie in 1993 and together Ferguson & Ferguson was established. "We have an excellent relationship and think that a brother and sister law firm is rather unique," says Graham. "We have complete confidence that, in the absence of either one of us, the other one is there and is able to handle any matter which might come up in a responsible and professional manner," Graham adds.

Jackie received her law degree from the University of Alabama in 1987. After clerking with Judge R.L. Hundley in the Circuit Court of Morgan County, she moved to Huntsville and worked one year with a local firm before opening her own office in 1989. Jackie currently concentrates her practice in the areas of family law, bankruptcy, and social security.

Randy received his law degree from the University of Alabama in 1991. After clerking in the Circuit Court of Madison County he began practicing law with Jackie as Ferguson & Ferguson in 1993. Randy's field of practice surrounds the area of personal injury law, including wrongful death, automobile accidents, workers' compensation, tractor trailer accidents, and other injuries due to negligence.

At Ferguson & Ferguson a priority is placed on talking with and listening to clients. Likewise, a priority has also been to keep the firm small. "We intentionally want to keep our firm small. We take only a limited number of cases so that we can personally deal with our clients, rather than handing a case and a client to an associate." says Ferguson. Graham adds "We want to speak directly with our clients and assist them one on one. Communication is the key."

With a wide client base, Ferguson comments that "Many of our clients consider us their attorneys no matter what the legal issue. They refer their family and friends to us for a variety of legal matters." Graham adds "We always speak to these potential clients and try to assist them. If we can't help, then we recommend a reputable alternative."

If you are in need of legal assistance, please contact Ferguson & Ferguson. The office is located at 401 Lee Street, Suite 607A, in Decatur, AL 35620. Call Ferguson & Ferguson at (256) 350-7200 or e-mail at Jferg10099@aol.com or Rfergu1732@aol.com. More information is available on the web site at www.fergusonferguson.com.

"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. We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code."

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HTI Contractors

SUCCESS DEPENDS ON OUR CUSTOMER SERVICE

Jeff Robertson, owner of HTI General Contractors provides general contracting services in the residential, commercial, and industrial areas. While offering general contracting needs, the company's specialty is remodeling, repairs, and additions with a primary focus on whole-house renovations. In addition, HTI also offers renovations for commercial properties and new commercial construction.

Jeff started the business in 1987 after realizing he wasn't happy with his career path. As a "people" person he felt his experience in remodeling and renovations was being wasted. He then decided to take the leap of faith and start his own general contracting business.

Now with approximately 16 employees, HTI General Contractors has been serving the North Alabama area for 19 years, focusing on all facets of construction from the foundation to the roof and everything in between. Jeff believes in fulfilling the gap between the big remodeler who "won't do the job" and the small remodeler "who can't". "Our focus is our dedication to excellence and to affirm that, our success depends on our service," Jeff says. "We never settle for anything but the best."
HTI's staff includes two office assistants, two estimators and twelve other employees that provide one-on-one service. They are all trained in his business philosophy of listening to the client to gain trust and confidence. HTI General Contractors' takes the time to concentrate on what the client is saying and provides insight into every aspect of the project by using a personal touch to translate wishes and dreams into remodeling works of art. "We concentrate fully on personalized service to our customers by exceeding expectations with exceptional products and price without compromising value, material, and the finished product."

Jeff has been proudly serving the Decatur community as a member of the Decatur/Morgan County Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club of Decatur, Morgan County Homebuilders Association, the State Licensing Board for General Contractors, the Better Business Bureau of North Alabama, and the State of Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board.

For more information on Decatur's fastest growing general contractor who is committed to excellence and customer satisfaction, contact HTI General Contractors at 1530 4th Avenue SE in Decatur, call (256) 355-6680, e-mail hti@hiwaay.net, or visit the web site at www.hticontractors.com.

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I.C.E. Contractors, Inc. - It's Electric!

Since 1995, I.C.E. Contractors, Inc. has been providing electrical contracting needs to the Decatur and surrounding areas. Owner Guy Smith started an electrical contracting business focusing on commercial and industrial work in the mid 90's in conjunction with a construction company and a partner. Previously an electrical engineer for the Bechtel Power Corporation at Brown's Ferry Nuclear Plan, Smith is now sole owner of I.C.E. Contractors and brings more than 20 years of experience in the electrical business to the clients he serves. "The start of I.C.E. was the best thing because I was able to focus 100 percent of my time and energy on what I love most, the industrial and commercial electrical market," Smith says.

I.C.E.'s mission is easy to see … to promote higher standards to earn the respect of clients by providing quality craftsmanship and competitive pricing that exceed customer expectations through a safe work environment, while developing growth opportunities for their staff and business associates.
"Everything possible will be done to save our customers money and be more efficient," he says. Recently, I.C.E. was awarded an electrical contracting project at Nichols Aluminum that will provide them with a cost savings of $40,000 because a cable tray could be installed in lieu of rigid conduit. This cable tray will also provide a raceway for future expansions for the company.

I.C.E. invests valuable time working on a project before a contract is even signed to ensure the best solution is found for the client. This is true in particular with a hatchery in Moulton that I.C.E. worked with on every stage of development over the past 5 years. From conception to assisting with the budget, design and coordination with the utility company, I.C.E. has been there every step of the way to ensure efficient and quality electrical services.

I.C.E. is currently working with Wayne Farms DQH5 on the Further Processing Facility located in Decatur. The services the company is providing include electrical, power and controls to the majority of the processing equipment.

Smith says his success can be contributed to the love and support of his family. Wife Leigh and children Nicole and Austin have been by his side to see the company grow by more than 60 percent. "I would not be who I am today without Leigh, she gives me a 100 percent support whether I make a right or wrong decision, " he says.

Smith has been a part of the North Alabama community all his life and is proud to be a part of the Decatur area. "Thank you Decatur for allowing us to be a part of this growing community," he says.

For assistance with design and installation, PLC, control panels, maintenance support, motor controls, energy management or power distribution, contact I.C.E. Contractors, Inc. at (256) 353-7828 or visit www.icecontractors.net.

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Picture Perfect

Picture Perfect

Carole Foret Fine Art
Kearn's Photography
Brewster Commercial Photography has been offering photography and oil paintings for over 15 years. Owner Carole Foret started her own gallery in 1992 in Gulf Breeze, Florida. She relocated to Athens 10 years ago where she serves clients from Huntsville, Decatur, and surrounding areas. With an honors degree from Auburn University Carole furthered her study in art by traveling and marketing her work all over the Southeast, Chicago, and St. Paul, Minnesota.

Foret says, "I got into painting and shooting photography full time by simply doing it in a disciplined manner, marketing to galleries, and exhibiting my work." Her distinction is in her style: lots of bold color, textural paint, and unusual perspectives on her subjects. Foret's paintings are collected by clients all around the country.

As a photographer, Foret's work has been featured in numerous publications and projects. She shoots commercially, creates distinctive portraits, and helps models and talent build impressive portfolios. She is also the official photographer of Mission Makeover. Foret says, "I learned photography by taking a class after graduating from Auburn. At the same time, I began modeling for the more advanced classes, learning even more by being paid." To this day she still learns by being on both sides of the camera, both as a photographer and a commercial model with Real People Models & Talent Agency in Birmingham.

Visit Foret's gallery in downtown, historical Athens where you can purchase or commission a painting, peruse fine art gifts, or book a photo shoot. In addition, Foret's hi-tech downtown studio can be rented for events and parties. For fine art that's just around the corner, contact Carole Foret Fine Art
Kearn's Photography
Brewster Commercial Photography at (256) 232-2521, at 206 West Market Street in Athens, or online at www.caroleforet.com.

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Chris D. Teichmiller, OD, PC

Dr. Chris Teichmiller - Insightful Vision for Patients

As an optometrist, Dr. Chris Teichmiller has the insight into the latest technology and the vision to provide patients with a comprehensive level of service in eye care. While playing baseball in Hartselle, AL, and later for Coach Harry "The Hat" Walker at the University of Alabama in Birmingham, Dr. Teichmiller began to see the impact that good vision had on people's lives. After graduating from the University of Alabama in Birmingham's School of Optometry, he moved back to Decatur, purchased the practice of Dr. Tom Bingham and soon started providing patients with a full scope of optometric services.

Dr. Teichmiller focuses on putting patients first and that point is emphasized in the work ethics of his staff. "Patients are always first and foremost," Teichmiller says. "Without a professional and friendly staff, this would not be the caring practice we believe our patients deserve." Dr. Teichmiller and his staff voluntarily attend more than 100 hours of advanced continuing education courses and training annually to stay informed of the latest technologies that are available. The recently remodeled facility has the latest in diagnostic technology, a large selection of designer frames, contact lenses, including specialty and bifocal contact lenses, as well as customized nutritional and weight loss supplements to facilitate a healthier lifestyle.

One of the most innovative services Dr. Teichmiller offers is Corneal Refractive Therapy or Paragon CRT. Paragon CRT offers patients with mild to moderate nearsightedness and a minor astigmatism the opportunity to wear specially designed contact lenses that are worn while they sleep to reshape the central part of the cornea. Once the lenses are removed in the morning, vision in most patients is corrected to 20/20. "Seeing the excited look on patients' faces when they can see without their contacts or glasses is so rewarding," Teichmiller says. CRT is showing great promise in controlling the progression of nearsightedness in children while giving them the benefits of great vision free from glasses or daytime contact lenses. Dr. Teichmiller is also starting to offer CRT to patients who are mildly farsighted.

For patients needing advanced care, he works with local area surgeons to provide excellent care for cataracts, glaucoma, retinal eye disease, dry eye syndromes, as well as refractive surgery options with a personalized touch.

Dr. Teichmiller is very involved in the community and in many professional organizations. He is an active member of the Central United Methodist Church, Rotary Club of Decatur, American and Alabama Optometric Associations, past Admiral of the Decatur/Morgan County Commodores, former Chamber Board of Directors and Leadership Decatur Chair. In 2004, he was chosen by peers to serve as President of the Alabama Optometric Association and he is currently participating in the nationally recognized Mission: Makeover project (www.missionmakeover.com) being conducted in Decatur. Also, he currently is serving as the state director for the Opening Eyes Program sponsored by Special Olympics International and Lions Clubs International. Dr. Teichmiller is married to Dr. Stephanie Teichmiller, whose dental practice is also in Decatur. They have two children, Ann Sutton and Nichols.
For more information on how Dr. Teichmiller can help with your vision needs, contact the office at (256) 353-1871, or visit at 823 Sixth Avenue, Decatur, AL 35601. Appointments are scheduled Monday through Thursday from 8am to 5pm and Fridays until noon.

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Albany Home Loans, Inc.

Albany Home Loans - "A Loan for Every Home"

On January 1, 2001, Penny Fagan and Laura Mitchell opened Albany Home Loans, Inc. in Decatur after working for more than 25 years with local banks and mortgage companies. "We decided to do for ourselves what we have been doing for others for years," co-owner Fagan says.

Albany Home Loans specializes in offering 100% loan options, FHA and VA Loans, Conventional loans, Rural Economic Community Development loans, credit- challenged borrower loans, construction/perm loans, second mortgage loans, and equity lines of credit loans. The company's mission is to provide a loan for every home. "We know every home deserves a family and it's our mission to finance the 'American Dream' for that family." Fagan and Mitchell say.

Albany Home Loans treats client individually and makes sure the borrower gets the best mortgage loan for his or her needs. "We do mortgage loans and we do those best, in our opinion," Fagan says. "We have two decades worth of experience and continuing education that we apply daily in qualifying our borrowers for the best mortgage loan product." The entire staff is proud to help the clients accomplish the goal of owning a home and offers bilingual services to help the Hispanic community as well.

Fagan and Mitchell are very involved in the Decatur community. Laura is a Commodore with the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce, serves as a Director for Hospice, and is the 2005 Vice President and 2006 President Elect for Alabama Mortgage Brokers Association. Laura is also licensed to do mortgage origination in the State of Florida. Penny is the 2005 President of Alabama Mortgage Brokers Association, a second-year delegate of the National Association of Mortgage Brokers, a member of Business Networking International, and a member of Calvary Assembly of God. Albany Home Loans is a member of the Better Business Bureau, Morgan County Board of Realtors, Decatur Home Builders Association, and the Chamber of Commerce.

For more information on how Albany Home Loans can help you own the home of your dreams, call Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm at (256) 353-1500 or toll free at (866) 353-1500, or visit 2042 Beltline Road SW E-316 in Decatur, or online at www.albanyhomeloans.net.

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Lewis and Son Roofing & Construction

"The same people who fix your roofing problems can also remodel your home . . . Lewis and Son Roofing & Construction"

For almost 50 years, Lewis and Son Roofing & Construction has professionally repaired and replaced residential and commercial roofs. "We do over 500 roofs a year," says Shane Lewis, the company's president. And in the past few years the company has moved inside the house. "We've been in the remodeling business since 2000, and since then, we have satisfied hundreds of customers. Once we do a professional job on the roof, people have confidence in asking us to do other remodeling jobs such as replacing windows and doors, installing all types of siding, and building a dream deck. People want professional service, and they've recognized that Lewis and Son Roofing & Construction does a professional job - every time."

Lewis and Son Roofing & Construction has always used top-quality product lines like GAF roofing materials and Anderson Windows. Lewis and Son Roofing & Construction holds a Master Elite status from GAF, North America's largest roofing manufacturer. To further meet the clients' remodeling needs, other excellent lines have been added, and only top-quality products with outstanding warranties are used. Lewis and Son Roofing & Construction uses James Hardie siding which is field proven, resists damage from the elements and flying debris, resists flame spread and insect damage, and holds paint longer. The company also installs Velux Skylights that feature glass - not plastic - and a specially designed flashing system to prevent leaks.

Lewis and Son Roofing & Construction is proud to install Trex Decking and Railing products. Trex is made from a unique combination of reclaimed wood and plastic and exhibits the best qualities of both materials. The plastic shields the wood from moisture and insect damage so there's no rotting or splintering. The wood protects the plastic from UV damage, giving your deck a solid, natural feel that looks great year after year. Unlike wood surfaces, Trex

• Will not rot or deteriorate due to harsh weather
• Is splinter free
• Resists moisture, insects and sunlight, making Trex decking the perfect choice for pools, hot tubs and spas
• Has excellent traction, even when wet

Lewis says, "People that don't want to worry about the roof leaking should use our service. We use only top-quality products with outstanding warranties. And with our special GAF computer software and a digital picture of your house, we can even show you what your roof will look like before we begin the job. We never sub-contract our work: our own staff, which is covered by Workmen's Compensation Insurance, installs all products. We take the time to find leaks and properly fix the problem on each roofing project to make sure that the customer is both happy AND satisfied. Additionally, the company offers a 1-year, money-back warranty on leak repairs, 24/7 roof-repair emergency service, and a flat-tire guarantee if one of the company's nails gives your car a flat tire.

Lewis and Son Roofing & Construction is a member of the National Federation Independent Business Organization, the Huntsville/Madison County Home Builders Association, and the National Roofers Contracting Association. The company is located at 910 Church Street in Huntsville, Alabama, and can be reached by phone in Decatur at (256) 355-1515. www.lewisandsonroofing-hsv.com, sales@lewisandsonroofing-hsv.com

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Ernest W. Ball & Associates

Providing Legal Services for Businesses and Consumers in the Tennessee Valley

Since 1999, Ernest W. Ball & Associates has provided quality, personalized services to help the clients grow and prosper throughout the Decatur and North Alabama area. The law firm's primary areas of practice are: business organizations; estate planning (wills and trust); estate and trust administration; general civil litigation; conservatorships and guardianships; residential and commercial real estate transactions; matrimonial and family law.

Ernest W. Ball is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati. He received his juris doctor degree from Cumberland School of Law and a master degree in business administration from Samford University. Mr. Ball is licensed to practice law in Alabama and Tennessee and is a member of both the Alabama Bar and the Tennessee Bar. His areas of practice include business organizations, finance, residential and commercial real estate, wills, trust, and probate work.

Kevin R. Kusta is a graduate of the University of Alabama. He received his juris doctor degree from Cumberland School of Law where he was a member of the American Journal of Trial Advocacy. Mr. Kusta is licensed to practice law in Alabama and he is a member of both the Alabama Bar and the Morgan County Bar. His areas of practice include general civil litigation, conservatorships and guardianships, criminal law, and matrimonial and family law.

Ernest W. Ball & Associates has deliberately retained its small size in order to provide clients with high quality, personalized legal services at a fair price. The professional, knowledgeable and compassionate support staff is composed of Donna Cason, Robyn Scott, and Nikki Nowlin.

To further assist potential and current clients, Mr. Ball answers general litigation questions submitted via email within 48 hours at www.ernestwball.com. For more information on how Ernest W. Ball & Associates can serve you, visit 111 Grant Street, SE in Decatur, AL 35601 or call (256) 351-6869.

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.

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Dumas Floor Covering

Covering Your Flooring Needs

With almost 50 years of expertise in the flooring business, Dumas Flooring Covering, Inc. covers all your needs from carpet to hardwood to laminate. Owner Veda Dumas and her staff provide customers with the latest in the flooring industry with a personal touch and attention to detail.

Dumas' parents, Grady and Virginia, started the business in 1958. After her father returned home from serving in World War II in Germany, he married her mother Virginia and decided to open his doors at the same location it currently resides in today in Decatur. As Grady began to learn the industry, he first learned how to plaster while diving into the trade of ceramic tile. The main focus on the business at this early period was in ceramic tiles and grew into other floor covering areas over the years. "We offer all lines of floor coverings: carpet, hardwood, vinyl, vinyl tile, bamboo, cork floors, laminates, etc.," says Dumas.

When a customer arrives at the store, one of the highly trained staff members greets them and helps determine what will work for their needs. There is a large showroom with numerous samples of ceramic tiles, hardwoods, laminates and carpet for customers to choose from. Some of the brands that Dumas carries are Armstrong, Mannington, Shaw, Bruce, Hartco and Mohawk lines of carpeting, tile and hardwoods. All products come with the manufacturer's warranty and the installation comes with a 10-year warranty.

What sets Dumas Floor Covering apart is not only the attention given to the customer, but that it staffs in-house installers. Many flooring companies use subcontractors to install the flooring, but Dumas Floor Coverings has them on staff to provide customers with quality workmanship and dependability with employees it trust. "As a child, I remember my Daddy teaching us that a man thinks first of his family and second of his home," she says. "When we are working in someone's home, we remember that and keep this as one of our standard practices."

The staff at Dumas Flooring Covering receives top-quality training, keep up on the latest methods and trends, and know that customer service and satisfaction is top priority. Some of the latest trends Dumas is seeing is the resurrection of shag carpeting and decorative pieces and bordering with hardwoods and ceramic tiles.

"We strive for the satisfaction of each customer while making them our friend," Dumas says. What is most rewarding for Dumas is knowing that each customer is happy and this is reflected in the company being elected by the Decatur community as the Best of the Best Floor Covering Stores in the Tennessee Valley by the readers of The Decatur Daily in 2003, 2004,and 2005. Dumas and her staff give back to the local and state areas by supporting all school functions and community affairs.

From decorative floor pieces, to two-tone hardwood and bordering to shag carpet, trust the experts with your flooring needs at Dumas Floor Coverings located at 3109 Upper River Road in Decatur. For more information contact them during regular business hours on Monday through Friday 8 am to 5 pm, (256) 353-3870 or at dumasfloor@bellsouth.net.

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Gloria's Good Health

Making the World Healthier, One Person at a Time

In 1974, Gloria Oliver, owner of Gloria's Good Health, began using supplements to help improve her own energy and immune system. Using her husband and three children as guinea pigs for everything from cold remedies to fiber products, she bought her first store in 1989 to enjoy getting her products for wholesale. Her husband thought this small business venture would save some money, but she quickly expanded her business and moved to the Gateway Shopping Center to not only bring the best in health care products to Decatur and North Alabama, but also healthy services as well.

"I saw a need to provide the community with pro-active health information," Gloria says. The services Gloria provides include massage therapy, metabolic testing, diet classes, smoothies, body wraps and diabetic counseling. "After trying to stock the most effective and safe supplements, we realized that without education, our customers would never know what choices to make," Gloria says. "Our well-trained staff, our reference area, and our free diet classes have helped our customers make their own decisions about what is best for them."

One of the most popular services Gloria's Good Health offers free to the community are the monthly diet classes featuring the Zone Nutritional Program. Licensed Zone Instructor Dee Meyer teaches customers how to eat healthy for life, while at the same time helping drop weight each week. "She works with adults and children throughout the area. All class attendees receive a special discount on supplements and a free bag of goodies," Gloria says. In addition to these monthly classes, private consultation is also available.

Some of the other popular services provided for customers are metabolic testing, skincare analysis using a regimen optimizer, natural skin care makeovers, antioxidant scanning, and infrared body wraps. "The body wrap treatments, which are highly effective for reducing cellulite and body pain, burn up to 1,200 calories or more in just 50 minutes," Gloria states. "These relaxing, comfortable body wraps bear little resemblance to other 'herbal wraps'. The ones Gloria's Good Health offer increase the metabolism over the next 48 hours to help burn more calories and drop inches permanently."

Gloria and her staff are pro-active toward a person's good health. "Our mission is to make the world healthier, one person at a time," Gloria says. The staff is knowledgeable in health information to help customers make a safe and effective choice with supplementation.

Gloria is a Decatur resident who enjoys giving back to her community. She provides gift baskets and gift certificates for many local organizations including Miss Point Mallard, the Decatur General Foundation Gala, PACT, Junior League, area churches, and Decatur City and Morgan County Schools.

To learn how Gloria's Good Health can help improve your well being with nutritional supplements and natural skincare products, call (256) 355-2439 or visit the web site at www.gghealth.com. The store is located at 1820-L 6th Avenue SE in the Gateway Shopping Center in Decatur. Store hours are Monday through Friday from 10am to 6pm, Saturdays from 10am to 5pm, and on Sundays from 1pm to 5pm.

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Hospice of the Valley

Wins BBB Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics

Hospice of the Valley was recognized with top honors at the BBB of North Alabama's 8th Annual Torch for Marketplace Ethics Awards on November 15, 2005 at the Huntsville Marriott. This year's event was marked by the addition of the Non-Profit category.

"I am so humbled. When I hear the names of the other nominees and read about the former winners of this award it truly humbles me," said Hospice of the Valley Executive Director Carolyn Dobson. "It truly is the people who work in our agencies that make us successful."

For Dobson, teamwork is a top priority.

"At Hospice of the Valley, our people are the ones who help make our decisions that first and foremost benefit the patient and their families and then secondly, consider what is best for the good of our community."

According to Belinda McCormick, North Alabama VP Operations, there were 15 entries in the non-profit category. There were three finalists included in each of the four categories. The first finalist in the non-profit category was The United Way of Madison County, the second finalist was The Arc of Madison County, Inc., and the third finalist was The American Red Cross.

The Torch Award is given in honor of special recognition among local BBB Members for their consistent display of sound ethical business practices in their relationships with employees, customers and vendors.

Randy Paul of Shoals Radio Group/Urban Radio served as the Torch Award ceremony's Emcee and this year's guest speaker was Morgan County native Don Logan, Chairman, Media & Communications Group, Tim Warner. Mr. Logan provided an excellent presentation on the roles of ethics and integrity in today's business world.

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Carnegie Visual Arts Center

DECATUR, ALABAMA - Women with Attitude by The Committee will be on display November 10, 2005 through December 29, 2005. Special events throughout the exhibition period include an Open House on Thursday, November 10 from 6-9 PM. Lunch & Learn, on December 2 from 12:00PM - 1:00 PM, will be a round table discussion on the topic of "Women and Art" with member artists of The Committee leading the discussion. For reservations, call the Carnegie at 256-341-0562.

The Committee is an alliance of artists from the Huntsville - Decatur area, who have come together to support and encourage one another. Through their unity, they strive to expand their artistic vision through their individual artist styles and media.

Nearly fifteen years ago, The Committee was formed to bring out the best in each member artist. The only requirement was being serious about art. Believing that artists do not grow in isolation, The Committee's alliance sprung from admiration of each others work and artistic curiosity. While sharing is key, each artist maintains her own preference of style and medium. Oil, acrylic, watercolor, printmaking, sculpture and other three-dimensional work are represented in the group. The Committee number is kept at a maximum of ten.

When planning their exhibits, quite often a theme is chosen as a challenge and to give continuity to the exhibit. The Committee has exhibited in Huntsville, Decatur and Tuscumbia. The Committee includes Shirley Barnes, Heike Covell, Sally Estes, Sandra Fuller, Dee Holmes, Marcia Leonard, Joyce Lowery, Terri Shows, Debra Simpson, and Maria West

The Carnegie Visual Arts Center is located on the corner of Church Street and Oak Street in the Old Decatur district of Decatur, Alabama. Regular exhibit hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. There is no admission charge but donations are accepted. Visit their website at www.carnegiearts.org for more information on the Carnegie Visual Arts Center.

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COMING SOON! A New Way to Save on Home Improvement Materials

Taking a giant step closer to making their home improvement outlet store a reality, Habitat for Humanity of Morgan County recently signed a lease for the building at 620 Wilson Street in Decatur. The 22,272 sq. ft. building located next to the Hwy 31 bridge, provides a highly visible setting for the new outlet store - over 55,000 cars drive by each day. The building will house offices for Habitat's Construction Manager in addition to serving as a retail establishment where the public can purchase new and used home improvement materials at prices 50% - 75% off retail.

Landis Wheat has been hired as the store manager for the Home Improvement Outlet store. Her short term focus will be to establish the layout of the store and work with area businesses to secure donations of warehouse type shelving, material handling equipment and store inventory.

"This is an extremely exciting time for our affiliate," stated Habitat Executive Director Mindy Thwing. "Ultimately the success of the Habitat Home Improvement Outlet will mean that a much higher number of Morgan County families can be moved out of dangerous and unhealthy poverty housing and into simple, decent homes."

The committee responsible for establishing the store selected Habitat Home Improvement Outlet to be the official business name. The new logo for the outlet was developed by local marketing company StoneRiver, Inc.

The biggest needs right now are financial contributions, donation of materials that can be sold in the store, and help picking up these donated materials. A complete list of materials that can be donated is on the Habitat web site at www.morganhabitat.org. If you have materials to donate or if you can help pick up donated materials once or twice a month please call the outlet at 308-1160. Financial contributions should be clearly marked as being meant for the Habitat Home Improvement Outlet and sent to the Habitat office at PO Box 1651, Decatur, AL 35602.

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Fowler Auction

Providing experience, professionalism, knowledge, and hardwork, Fowler Auction & Real Estate (FARE) will convert your assets into cash through the powerful auction method of selling!

An active member of the National Auctioneers Association (NAA) and the Alabama Auctioneers Association (AAA), Mickey Fowler, Owner and Auctioneer, brings to every client over 27 years of experience, education, and skill. Fowler Auction & Real Estate has won many state and national awards from these associations. In 2005, the company won six Alabama awards in the areas of brochures designed to: market residential and commercial real estate, market estate liquidation, market business liquidation, and market farm/machinery equipment. Besides being one of only 20 auctioneers in Alabama with the Certified Auctioneer Institute designation, Fowler also holds the professional certification of Accredited Auctioneer, Real Estate and Certified Estate Specialist. Fowler is trained to “read” people, therefore giving clients and the buyer the best services “at the auction, at the moment” and therefore the best deal for everyone involved.

Fowler says, “We are a professional, full-service auction firm committed to the auction method of selling. We bring buyers and sellers together in a professional, pleasurable, and stress-free environment, utilizing modern technology and innovative business strategies. Our success is built upon ethical and professional relationships with our clients. We believe we can do a better job.
Because of my experience and extensive training, I can evaluate property and give a very, very close estimate of its selling price.

One major benefit of a real estate auction is you KNOW when your property is going to sell, and you KNOW when it is going to close.”

The real estate auction process consists of the following:

• The seller signs contracts for the auction and provides access to the property and deed. The seller does nothing more.
• Fowler Auction & Real Estate does clean up, sort, set-up, and conducts the sale.
• Fowler Auction & Real Estate also handles every detail on the closing.

Fowler Auction & Real Estate makes the sale of your residential/ commercial property “stress free”.
Marie Hurst (a recent customer) says, “You all are great. You took all the stress out of selling our property.”

Betsye Fowler Spencer, Office Manager, says, “The auction industry is becoming very high tech and Fowler Auction & Real Estate is right there at the top.We use “Live Internet Bidding” in REAL TIME at our auctions. This cutting-edge technology is not widely available in this region. Live Internet Bidding gives Fowler Auction the capability to serve a wider spectrum of buyers, including commercial and residential investors, people unable to attend on the day of the auction, and sellers such as business and government agencies that require the broad exposure the Internet offers.” Spencer continues, “The ‘Live Energy’ at on-site auctions enhances and compliments the ‘Live Internet Bidding’ and, therefore, we offer both services to our clients. This combination of the ‘live’ auction ring and the ‘Live Internet Bidding’ create energy that only the auction method of marketing can produce.

Fowler Auction & Real Estate has expanded into the area of traditional real estate sales with a sister business in Athens, Alabama. Readers of the Athens News Courier recently voted the Exit Realty Group the Best Realty Group in Athens, Alabama.

Mickey Fowler loves his work and would love to work for YOU.

Fowler says, “The auction business is the most fun work anybody can do. I enjoy getting up and going to work each day.” It is this positive attitude along with experience, professionalism, knowledge, and hard work that has made Fowler Auction & Real Estate “The Preferred Auction Company since 1978.” For more information about Fowler Auction’s services to Decatur and throughout Morgan County, call (256) 420–4454, toll free (866) 293-0157, e-mail info@fowlerauction.com, or check out the web site at www.fowlerauction.com. The Fowler Auction Center is located at 8710 HWY 53 in Toney, AL.