COVER STORY: Veterinary Regional Referral Hospital

Turning a Vision Into a Reality

Dr. Michael Newman of Veterinary Regional Referral Hospital always had the vision of providing a state-of-the-art, high-tech facility to patients and veterinarians in the Tennessee Valley. And this May, his vision became a reality. “I’ve built this hospital because pet owning clients want these kinds of services in a more convenient place. It has been my dream to build such a facility for many years,” Newman says.

This state-of-the-art facility has top-of-the-line equipment, such as a CT Scan and a soon-to-arrive ultrasound machine, which provides patients and area veterinarians with services they previous had to drive many long hours for. What is truly unique is that Dr. Newman is the first private veterinarian to have a CT scan available and these images can be sent over the Internet for radiologist to read. The hospital also features a 24-hour emergency room, a critical care room, prep room and two surgery rooms, along with many other features.

Newman and his staff service clients mainly in the North Alabama and Southern Tennessee area, but also cover Corinth, MS to Nashville. 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 states.

This year, Dr. Newman is celebrating his 20th anniversary after first opening his practice in 1986 in Birmingham and moving to Decatur in 1994. 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. In addition, he has a bachelor’s degree in Zoology from North Carolina State University. Along with his degrees, Newman completed a two-year internship in Cincinnati and at The Ohio State University, a residency in surgery at Auburn and then was part of the Auburn faculty. While doing his master’s degree work, he also did his surgical residency.

With the opening of the new facility, Newman has added additional staff members, such as three operating room technicians, two receptionists and two nurses to provide top-quality service to patients and is currently interviewing specialty veterinarians to complete the team. His staff consists of LPN professionals, surgical assistants, emergency personnel, imaging service technicians and operating room technicians.

In order to provide patients with excellent care and better-trained veterinarians, Newman has his staff receive additional training. Surgical assistants attend classes through Calhoun Community College, technicians receive three weeks of training and veterinarian critical care personnel will spend almost half of the first year at Auburn receiving additional training, as well.

“The Tennessee Valley has been very supportive in making our practice successful so that our expansion is possible and necessary,” he says. “This new building is only phase one and we plan to build on to it in the future.”

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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Dr. Stephanie Teichmiller, DMD

Designing Life-Changing Smiles

For more than 15 years, Dr. Stephanie Teichmiller, DMD has been improving people’s lives through beautiful smiles. Sometimes those smiles actually start with no teeth at all!

When most people hear the word, “dentures,” they associate it with older people and “plastic,” unnatural appearing teeth and gums. What Dr. Teichmiller can provide is a beautiful smile that can improve your self-confidence and bring back your radiant smile utilizing a unique approach to dentures. Some dentists have moved from the engineering of wonderful, life enhancing and beautifying dentures, but Dr. Teichmiller has chosen to embrace this fulfilling and gratifying option in the hopes that she can bring peace of mind and a gorgeous smile to patients from the most contributing generation of our time. Esthetic Denture engineering takes into account both the function of the dentures and the esthetics. This type of engineering involves working closely with the patient to obtain their wants and desires, as well as securing a correct fit. “My goal was to take an experience that historically left patients with minimal esthetic input into their new dentures to actually depending on them to guide the process! Together the patient and I hand-select and place each of the porcelain (NOT plastic) teeth and my technician hand-tints the gums to match the patient’s skin tones. They are really a work of art,” Dr. Teichmiller says.

Don’t let the two biggest dangers that face denture wearer’s cause you to look years older and possibly reduce your life span. First, bone loss makes you look older much faster by bringing the nose closer to the mouth and accentuating those wrinkles that surround the mouth. Second, the loss of your teeth can reduce your life span, as well as ill-fitting dentures can limit or restrict intake of good nutrition. Dentures can be beautiful, natural and comfortable! New dentures can do so much more than give you something to chew with; they can actually reverse or lessen the aging that may have already taken place by giving fullness, lift and youthfulness to the lower third of your face.

Dr. Teichmiller graduated Turris Fidelis from the University of North Alabama. She is also an honors graduate of the University Of Alabama School Of Dentistry. Dr. Teichmiller completed an Oral Pathology Fellowship and was awarded a prestigious International Association of Dental Research Award. Her postgraduate 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 is 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 Dentistry dentist with a woman whose smile has been destroyed by domestic violence. Her other “signature” project is the nationally recognized Mission: Makeover.

Ferguson & Ferguson

"Protecting YOUR Personal Interests"

Ferguson & Ferguson Attorneys at Law have been protecting their client’s personal interests since 1993. The sister and brother team of Jackie Ferguson Graham and Randy Ferguson represent clients in the areas of trucking accidents, auto accidents, product liability, slip and fall, wrongful death, family law, social security and bankruptcy.

Randy and Jackie grew up in Hartselle, Alabama, and graduated from Falkville High School. They both graduated from The University of Alabama Law School and each spent time clerking for North Alabama Circuit Court Judges. After opening the practice in Huntsville, they decided to open an office in Decatur in 1999. "We have an excellent relationship and think that a brother and sister law firm is rather unique," Jackie says, “Our communication – as sister and brother – is excellent and greatly enhances our business operation.”

Communication with each other and with the client is a key to their success. A priority has also been to keep the 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," Randy says.

With the two having experience in different but complimenting areas of law, Ferguson & Ferguson provides quality legal representation. Jackie’s experience is in family law, bankruptcy and social security areas while Randy focuses on personal injury law, including wrongful death, automobile accidents, worker’s compensation, tractor-trailer accidents and other injuries due to negligence.

Ferguson & Ferguson’s personal injury representation focuses on clients injured in automobile and trucking accidents; workplace accidents; construction accidents; negligently maintained property; defective products; other negligent or intentional misconduct. Randy says, “Personal injury is the area where I have experience and training. I attempt to settle cases before and during litigation, but my goal is always to insure my clients are fully compensated for their injuries.” He continues, “A lawyer handling these types of cases must understand that the way the case is settled and defined determines the client’s eligibility for Social Security and other possible benefits.”

Randy’s legal focus compliments Jackie’s experience in Social Security matters, such as claims for Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income. Jackie states, “Any personal injury case – because of the seriousness of the injury – can turn into a Social Security case because the individual is disabled due to the accident and cannot go back to work.”

Ferguson & Ferguson also helps protect clients’ rights and property with bankruptcy issues. The firm’s services, with Jackie’s training in the field, addresses creditor issues and helps clients keep their home, vehicles and other property with Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases.

If you are in need of legal assistance, contact Ferguson & Ferguson at 401 Lee Street, Suite 607A, in Decatur, at (256) 350-7200, e-mail at randy@fergusonferguson.com, or visit their website 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."

I.C.E. Contractors, Inc. - The Heartbeat of I.C.E. Contractors, Inc. is its Employees

At the heart of I.C.E. Contractors, Inc., an electrical contracting company for commercial and industrial work, is its employees. With more than 25 employees, Owner Guy Smith knows his success is due, in a large part, to his staff. “What makes me successful is surrounding myself with quality and loyal people,” Guy says. “We wouldn’t be I.C.E. without them.”

What drives the success of the company is everyone working together as a team. Office Manager Patricia Thrasher, who handles all customer service issues, payroll and accounting tasks, has been working with Guy for the past two years since he opened I.C.E. on his own. “It’s been a treat to be able to start from the beginning and be a part of the growth,” she says. “Guy is a great boss and he really cares for his employees, and I look forward to coming to work everyday.”

Each staff member provides valuable expertise in the jobs that they do to make I.C.E. a premier electrical contracting business. When a new contract is signed or an estimate is needed, one of the three highly experienced project managers is assigned to the project. At I.C.E., the project managers focus on meeting with clients, providing estimates, handling design aspects, overseeing the crews and making sure all projects are done in a safely and timely manner, as well as under budget.

Commercial Project Manager Russell Casey, Industrial Project Managers Neal Brown and Rodney Roden, and the entire staff invest valuable time working on a project before a contract is even signed to ensure the best solution is found for the client. “We strive to get things done quicker, better and cheaper,” Neal says, who’s worked with Guy for nine years and has 15 years of experience in the business.

Guy focuses on providing his employees with a positive working environment that promotes growth. This leads to happy employees, which in turn, helps I.C.E. provide top-quality service to clients. Russell, who has been with I.C.E. for more than a year now, and has 10 years of experience in the industry, enjoys working closely with clients on their projects. “I enjoy working with customers and making them happy,” he says.

What each Project Manager is most proud of is working their way up into their new roles in the industry, as well as in the company. “My biggest accomplishment is working my way up to where I am today,” Rodney says, who previously worked with Guy for four years and rejoined the I.C.E. team eight months ago.

“I appreciate everyone, the jobs that they do and they do them well,” Guy states. “I’m excited about our growth, the future of I.C.E. and where we’re headed.”

At the heartbeat of I.C.E. are its valuable employees. 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.icecontractorsinc.com.

Chris D. Teichmiller, OD, PC

Putting Patients First

“We believe that our patients not only deserve the best vision possible, but we also show our patients that we truly care about them,” states Dr. Chris Teichmiller.

As an optometrist, Dr. Teichmiller not only has the insightful vision to provide his patients with a comprehensive level of eye care service with the latest technology, but he focuses on putting his patients first. His professional and friendly staff adopts his work ethic. “Everyone in our office truly projects this caring practice that we believe our patients deserve,” Dr. Teichmiller says, “Our patients are always first and foremost.”

In addition to comprehensive eye exams for adults and children, Dr. Teichmiller and his team offer premium service for vision health. The recently remodeled facility has the latest diagnostic technology, a vast selection of designer frames, specialty contact lenses for astigmatism and multi-focal corrections, and diet and nutritional supplements for a complete source of vision health and lifestyle excellence.

One of the most innovative services Dr. Teichmiller offers to patients with mild to moderate nearsightedness and a minor astigmatism is PARAGON CRT (Corneal Refractive Therapy). These patients wear specially designed contact lenses while they sleep to reshape the central part of the cornea. Once the lenses are removed in the morning, vision to most patients is 20/20. “It is so rewarding to see the reactions of my patients when they realize that they can enjoy great vision without their glasses or day-time contact lenses,” says Dr. Teichmiller. CRT is showing such great promise in controlling the progression of nearsightedness in children and teens while giving them the benefits of great vision during their active day. Dr Teichmiller has also extended CRT to patients who are mildly farsighted. Recently at the PARAGON CRT conference, Dr. Teichmiller was recognized for his CRT practice and was asked to join the expert panel of this year’s ASCRT (American Society of CRT) in Phoenix. In addition, to attending the CRT conference, he also was a guest speaker at the Vision Source Annual Meeting in Acapulco, Mexico.

For patients requiring more advanced care, Dr. Teichmiller works closely with local area surgeons to provide complete care for cataracts, glaucoma, retinal eye disease and dry eye syndrome, as well as refractive surgery with a personal touch.

Dr. Teichmiller is very involved with many professional organizations and participates actively in the community. 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 Country 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. Dr. Teichmiller is currently participating, for the second year, in the nationally recognized MISSION: MAKEOVER project that was featured on WAAY-31(www.missionmakeover.com). This is also his sixth year serving as the state director conducting vision screenings for the Opening Eyes Program sponsored by the Special Olympics International and Lions Club International.

For more information on how Dr. Chris Teichmiller can help you with your vision needs, contact his office located at 823 6th Avenue, Decatur, AL, by calling (256) 353-1871 or visit www.drchrisod.com.

Albany Home Loans, Inc.

Albany Home Loans - "A Loan for Every Home"

Although Albany Home Loans, Inc. has been in operation since January 2001, Owners Laura Mitchell and Penny Fagan have been financing homes for over 25 years

Albany Home Loans specializes in offering 100% loan options, FHA and VA loans, Conventional loans, Rural Economic Community Development loans, credit- challenged borrower loans. "We know every home deserves a family and it's our mission to finance it for them," Mitchell and Fagan say.

Each client is treated individually and the company makes sure the borrower gets the best mortgage loan for his or her needs. “Albany Home Loans has assisted my husband and myself on receiving financing on three different occasions. We have been pleased with their eagerness to help and quick response. I’ve sent clients to Albany because they are thorough in assisting people to achieve financing for their home purchases,” states Lisa Vickers of EXIT Realty Advantage.

Both Mitchell and Fagan have helped clients refinance an existing loan or find one to suit a particular need. “Refinancing our home was made so easy and uncomplicated and I love the positive energy that Penny displays. She is a true professional,” says Tom Owczarzak of Avanti Computers. Adds another satified client, “I am a widow and Laura made purchasing a new home a breeze instead of a dreaded experience for me,” says Debbie Bagwell, homeowner.

The staff is proud to help clients accomplish the goal of owning a home and offers bilingual services to help the Hispanic community as well. “If you want very good interest rates, with professional, prompt and courteous service then Albany Homes is the place for you,” say Jan and Carl Webb of American National Insurance Company.

Jody Peterson of Peterson Rentals & Realty Group says, “I buy a lot of investment property & I sell a lot of homes. Laura Mitchell @ Albany has made the process of financing homes easy for me and my clients.”

“Albany Home Loans will pull out all the stops to get your loan closed. If you have problems they get them resolved in no time!” Kari Willingham, REALTOR Coldwell Banker, McMillan & Associates.

For more information, contact Albany Home Loans 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.

Lewis and Son Roofing & Construction

Can ‘Stop a Leak’ even in a commercial/industrial building.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lewis and Son Roofing & Construction is a member of the National Federation Independent Business Organization, the Huntsville/Madison County Home Builders Association, and the National Roofers Contracting Association. The company’s main office is located at 910 Church Street in Huntsville, Alabama. Contact Lewis and Son Roofing & Construction by phone in Decatur at (256) 355-1515, toll-free at (800) 951-9269, or by visiting www.lewisandsonroofing-hsv.com.

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."

Before and After Weight Loss Photos

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.

Fowler Auction & Real Estate

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information 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. Fowler Auction is located at 8710 Hwy 53 in Toney, AL, 35773.

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.

Premier Events, LLC: Helping You Plan the Premier Event

Co-owners Rhonda Read and Dawn Hockett of Premier Events, LLC. provide the Decatur area with top-notch event planning services for weddings, reunions, private parties, parades, memorials, civic events, conventions, corporate meetings and more.  After working together on a successful community costume party, they decided to restructure Rhonda’s business and form their company. Rhonda, with more than 20 years of event planning expertise, and Dawn, with her creative flair, can make your special occasion an event to remember.

“Our goal is to assist our clients with planning their event and provide them with everything needed to host a beautiful, memorable occasion,” Read says.

The services that Premier Events offers include choosing a location and theme, selecting décor, hiring a caterer or baker, finding entertainment, event setup and breakdown, as well as on-site staffing. “Premier Events is unique because we give you, the client, our undivided attention. We listen to your needs and desires, then work with you to create the event of your dreams,” she says. “So, whether you want something far out and fun, a contemporary or traditional gala, or a professional meeting, we can help.”

Some of the special occasions that Premier Events has put together include a community 2005 Back to School Bash and Family Costume Party in Priceville and the Grand Opening for the Genesis Club, a Christian family entertainment center.

“Why wear yourself out, break your back, and the bank when you can hire Premier Events who can do the work for you,” Read says. “We can save you time and money, plus allow you to enjoy your event without worry.”

To make your occasion the “Premier Event” of the season, contact Premier Events at (256) 353-4838; Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; email Rhonda@premiereventsllc.net or visit www.premiereventsllc.net.

HTI General Contractors

Contractors You Can Count On

Homeowners in Decatur and the surrounding area can count on HTI General Contractors for professional remodeling work. Remodeling a home can be a daunting experience, that’s why Owner Jeff Robertson and staff provide customers with constant professionalism and expertise throughout any project and their customers become repeat customers.

Satisfied customers, like Suzanne and Bobby Turner, were thrilled with the experience they had with HTI General Contractors on their recent remodeling project. Suzanne says, “Having worked with other contractors in the past, I was prepared for long delays, mediocre results, and little or no follow up. Was I surprised! After my first meeting with Jeff and HTI, I knew I would be working with a true professional. Our needs and desires were assessed and the process and materials were outlined in detail shortly after our initial meeting. In addition, they provided us with professional assistance on design options and recommendations. We experienced no delays, and I could not be happier with the work. Peace of mind during a remodeling project is important, and we had just that along with good value for our dollar and follow-up after completion to make sure everything was right. We heartily recommend Jeff and HTI to anyone considering a remodel.”

HTI General Contractors manage large and small projects--inside or out—for both residential and commercial customers. Robertson and his project managers work closely with homeowners and designers to turn ideas into reality.

For a contractor you can count on for any remodeling project, contact HTI General Contractors at 1530 4th Avenue SE in Decatur, (256) 355-6680, hti@hiwaay.net or visit www.hticontractors.com.

EXIT Realty Advantage

Take the EXIT to Success with EXIT Realty Advantage

Owner and Office Manager Jack Templeton of EXIT Realty Advantage knows what makes his agency successful is its comprehensive training, compensation system and its associates.

While serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, Templeton earned degrees in Business Administration, Personnel Management, and Computer Science. He wanted a career with business and personal interactions and decided to become a real estate agent. In 2004, he opened his EXIT franchise in Decatur and became part of a growing international franchise system that has an established training program and a compensation package that helps agents succeed. “In EXIT, everyone has a chance to profit, and there’s a viable retirement system. EXIT is designed to grow and our associates benefit repeatedly from helping us grow,” Templeton states.

EXIT Realty Corp. International Founder, Steve Morris, knew the struggles that agents faced and decided to start the business with a comprehensive training program and a commission system where current Realtors sponsor new ones and each earns valuable commission — which helps everyone’s business grow. “We have excellent training opportunities from our corporate office and in-house,” Templeton states.

Templeton credits Broker Glenn Hodges, former college and high school teacher and current real estate instructor, with offering excellent support to the company’s agents. Our mentoring system allows all agents to help others within the company. “This sense of camaraderie helps us grow and gives our agents a sense of security for the future,” he adds.

Templeton’s office is continuing to expand with new agents coming on board. “Today, we have 18 agents and we’re still growing,” Templeton says. “EXIT Realty Advantage is the second-largest real estate company in our county.”

Take the EXIT to success with EXIT Realty Advantage. For more information, contact Jack Templeton at (256) 353-1007 or online at www.exitofdecatur.com, or at 113 2nd Ave. Northeast in Decatur.

Jamie Cooper Television, Inc.

ZTV-11: Local and Lovin’ It

Since January 2003, WTZT in Athens, known as ZTV-11, has been local and lovin’ it with shows that focus on local people and places in the Tennessee Valley. Gloria and Jamie Cooper of Jamie Cooper Television, Inc. own and operate ZTV-11, as well as host and produce the morning show, Cooper & Company.

Jamie has been a fixture in local television for 33 years in North Alabama and Gloria for the last seven. Jamie started in Huntsville television in 1974 when he worked for Education Television (E-TV) and then moved to WAAY-31 in 1975. He worked at WAAY-31 for 17 years in a variety of positions and started the WAAY Too Early show, then later went on to start Cooper & Company in the early 90’s, which aired on WAFF-48 and moved to WHDF-15 in Florence. What Jamie is most remembered for was his segment on Channel 31’s 6 pm newscast, The Country Rover, which ran from late 70’s to early 90’s. This segment featured local people and places in the Tennessee Valley and Jamie stills carries on the tradition of focusing on local news and events at ZTV-11.

ZTV-11 features local programming, such as Cooper & Company, sports, home improvement and local Church shows. What has made the station so successful, tripling its size since 2003, is its local flavor with a mix of entertainment, events and area sports information. “ZTV-11 is real TV and that’s what we’re all about,” Jamie says. “We’re real America and there’s no better place.”

Cooper & Company airs live Tuesday through Friday from 6 to 7:30 am, replays nightly and on weekends, and a Best of the Week segment runs on Mondays. The show features a “ZNN” newscast and anything and anyone to do with the local area. “Local fits us to a ‘Z’,” he states. “Nobody enjoys doing what they do more than me as I sleep, eat and breathe television. With clients such as Eddie Preuitt Ford of Hartselle, who started with me in 1990 we’re sure to continue on!”

Others can see Jamie and Gloria’s passion for local television. Pastor John Dees of CrossPointe Church, who is a regular guest on Cooper & Company and also hosts his own show on Sunday mornings, enjoys working with the Coopers. “I’ve had the privilege to be on their show and I’m constantly amazed at their talent,” Dees says. “The concept of local and lovin’ it is just that … and Jamie and Gloria live it.”

ZTV-11 can be found on Mediacom (7), Knology (64), Charter (4&6), PCL (4) and antenna (VHF), Channel 11.

Not only are the Coopers a part of the local television market, but have now decided to enter the print industry with their latest venture featuring Gloria as publisher of Who’s Who in Athens due out later this year to continue promoting and supporting the local community.

For more information on how to either be a guest on Cooper & Company or advertise with the station, please contact Gloria or Jamie Cooper at (256) 603-4848, ztv@jamiecooper.com or online at www.jamiecooper.com.

North Alabama Business Connection (The)

Building Relationships

The North Alabama Business Connection (NABC) is a civic organization, which began as a way to help business owners grow their business through building relationships among other community business owners.

NABC members meet on a weekly basis to promote their business and pass referrals to one another. A referral for an NABC member is something they value, as it means another member is helping to grow their business. Along with promoting and passing referrals, these meetings help to educate the business owner on becoming more fluent in their communication of their business.

The concept of NABC is not a new one, but NABC has put an unusual twist on how the organization works. Each chapter selects a non-profit organization to sponsor throughout the year and the Decatur chapter has selected PACT (Parents and Children Together) this year. Additionally, NABC has also made donations to the Volunteer Center and Friends for Animals.

NABC Founder, Tom Owczarzak, knows that as business owners, each business in NABC receives support from the people who live in the community. “Without people buying our services and products, we would have to close our businesses and find something else to do. There are many individuals in Decatur that are not as lucky as we are or have had some form of bad luck fall on them,” says Owczarzak. “We have a goal to give back to the community, the community that continues to support each of our businesses.”

NABC members give back to the community in a variety of ways, such as providing monetary donations, volunteer work, and collection points at the business locations. When an individual joins NABC, they can grow their business while feeling good about supporting the community.

Businesses or individuals may join the organization for a small fee each month. For more information on NABC contact Tom Owczarzak at 256-355-9273 or e-mail at tom@bizhappens.com or go to the website www.bizhappens.com.

Parents and Children Together (PACT)

PACT’s Mission is to Help Prevent Child Abuse

Founder Gail Hurst established the program Parents and Children Together (PACT) with the sole mission of preventing child abuse and neglect in Morgan County, AL in 1978.

As one of the first comprehensive child abuse prevention programs in the Southeastern United States, PACT has now grown to become a Family Resource Center. With strong community ties and a large committed volunteer core, PACT provides services to more than 8,000 people throughout Morgan County each year. PACT has been recognized on local, state and national levels for excellence in programming, effective use of volunteers, and community support and involvement.

PACT’S mission is, “To improve the quality of life in Morgan County by preventing child abuse and neglect through empowering individuals and families to create a healthy interdependence by means of strength-based programs including parent education, direct services, public awareness and school programs which are based on an ongoing assessment of community needs.” And for the past 28 years, the dedication to this mission has not changed. PACT provides a variety of family strengthening services with the realization that every family is unique and offers different levels of support to any family within the community. “Child abuse is a community problem, not just a family problem,” says Tiki Hubbard, Executive Director of PACT.

Some of the programs PACT has developed include Newborn, Baby Talk, Kids and You, Tricky People, Better Safe Than Sorry, Ridin’ The Roller Coaster, The Parenting Profession, Parents as Teachers, and Fact, among others. Help save a child ...Three children a day die from child abuse and neglect. For more information, contact Tiki Hubbard at (256) 355-7252 or stop by the PACT office at 245 B Jackson St. SE, Decatur, AL.

MISSION: MAKEOVER 2006

A Makeover with a Mission

It's all about giving......a makeover to a very deserving person as well as supporting a local charity by a team of professionals in our own Tennessee Valley. The Makeover Team is composed of: Dr. Stephanie Teichmiller, Cosmetic Dentist; Dr. Benjamin Light, Facial Plastic Surgeon; Dr. Chris Teichmiller, Optometrist; Glenn Mitchell, Master Stylist of Red Jasper Salon/Spa; and Carole Foret, Photographer.

Last years Makeover was amazing as can be viewed on the website at www.missionmakeover.com. The 2006 "mission" has begun and The Makeover Team is now working their magic on this year’s winner. The Reveal party with entertainment, a fabulous silent auction, and the exciting reveal of the lucky winner will be held in the Fall.

You can be a part of this rewarding event by supporting the project with your tax deductible donation and/or purchasing tickets for the Reveal Party. Get more information by going to www.missionmakeover.com. Applications continue to be accepted on the website for next year's candidate.......it COULD happen to YOU!