July/August 2009 Published for the members of

“We Keep You Connected” FTC Offering World-Class Service in Small-Town America

Also Inside... NACC instructor has a Passion for Music

Quilters recreate a Piece of History

Young life marked by Courage and Faith Don't miss FTC's Annual Meeting Saturday, Aug. 1st Your FTC is commited to providing World-Class service At the 2008 Annual Meeting, I had the Perhaps one of the most significant opportunity to share with you that your accomplishments of 2008 was preparing Board of Trustees had made a $36 Mil- the way for expanding our service into is a member-owned corporation lion, three-year commitment to bring you areas outside our traditional territory. dedicated to providing communica- a World-Class Broadband Network. Our This expansion is through our subsidiary tions technology to the people of founders envisioned that the people of Farmers Telecommunications Corporation. northeast Alabama. The company Sand Mountain would not have to settle Your support of this project played a huge has over 16,000 access lines, mak- for less than the best when it came to role in helping us provide the exciting en- ing it the state’s largest telecom- reaching the world by phone. Our current hancements in your service that we’ve just munications cooperative. leadership made the same commitment to announced – unlimited calling plans and Board of Trustees you with respect to the communications the most requested feature we’ve ever had, Randy Wright, President platform of the future. local calling within the FTC network. Flat Rock Exchange On Saturday, August 1, at our 2009 An- I appreciate the leadership of our nual Meeting, you will hear me say that at Trustees and the loyalty and service of our Robert B. Burkhalter, Vice President the end of this 36-month period, approxi- employees whose commitment to hard Pisgah Exchange mately 72% of our membership will have work has helped us contain our costs. Danny R. Richey, Secretary optical fiber-based connectivity available That’s what made all of these improve- Geraldine Exchange to their home or business. This will enable ments possible. At the end of the day, it’s Lynn Welden, Treasurer us to provide you voice calling, advanced still all about you. You are both our cus- Bryant Exchange data services, access to the public Internet, tomer and our owner, and I like to think and digital television service – all of which we haven’t forgotten who we work for. Greg Griffith are absolutely World-Class and affordable. After all, it’s our job to KEEP YOU CON- Henagar Exchange We’ve had our challenges along the NECTED. Gary Smith way. Our television service was delayed Please make plans to attend the An- Fyffe Exchange almost an entire year when the national nual Meeting of your cooperative on Satur- business platform upon which it was based day, August 1. I look forward to seeing you Randy Tumlin n Rainsville Exchange collapsed. We had to rebuild it. But by there. partnering with other companies just like us we avoided losing our investment and Connected have put together a service that we believe Vol. 13, No. 4 July/August 2009 is actually better than what we started is a bimonthly magazine with. published by Farmers Telecom- munications Cooperative, © 2009. That type of challenge was typical of It is distributed without charge to 2008. We also closed the sale of certain all member/owners of the Coop- wireless assets to AT&T Mobility and were erative. Send address able to give our Farmers Wireless custom- corrections to: ers access to the world’s largest wireless Farmers Telecommunications network, AT&T Mobility. We saw the vast Cooperative, Inc. majority of our wireless customers make this change seamlessly and on very favor- P.O. Box 217 Fred Johnson 144 McCurdy Ave. N. able terms. Those customers now enjoy is General Manager Rainsville, Alabama 35986 such benefits as nationwide calling plans of Farmers Telephone: (256) 638-2144 with no roaming charges and unlimited Telecommunications www.farmerstel.com mobile-to-mobile calling within the AT&T Network. Cooperative, Inc. Produced for FTC by: WordSouth Public Relations, Inc. www.wordsouth.com It’s All Online! On the Cover: Connected magazine is available anytime, from anywhere. Search feature Make plans to attend the stories and recipes, then print or even email them to family and friends. Annual Meeting of your Farmers Login today and stay connected! Telecommunications Cooperative Visit FARMERSTEL.COM on Saturday, August 1st. and click on the Connected icon Photo by Stephen V. Smith 2 Connected - July/August 2009 NOW we're talking... Unlimited Nationwide Calling Now included in FTC Bundles! Telcom Enhanced Telcom Telcom 1 Max 2 Plus 3 Enhanced 4 Essential Speed: 10MB Speed: 6MB Speed: 3MB Speed: 1.5MB UNLIMITED UNLIMITED UNLIMITED UNLIMITED NATIONWIDE CALLING NATIONWIDE CALLING NATIONWIDE CALLING NATIONWIDE CALLING (Local & Long Distance) (Local & Long Distance) (Local & Long Distance) (Local & Long Distance)

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Restrictions on Use of FTC’s Unlimited Long Distance Service - FTC’s Unlimited Long Distance Service is available to Residential customers only and is provided subject to FTC’s Standard Terms and Conditions and FTC’s Price List (subject to any advertised discount).* These can be found at www.farmerstel.com . Unlimited Long Distance Service, whether purchased alone or as part of an FTC Bundle, is for typical domestic voice use only. It does not include 900 calls, 800 services, Calling card calls, International calls, Directory Assistance, Operator Assistance, multi-line conference calls, chat services, or data services – standard rates apply for these services. All long distance calling areas are limited to the 48 continental United States plus Alaska, Hawaii, and select U.S. Territories. Long distance is not intended for use to connect to Internet service providers, data providers, or information services. Commercial facsimile, auto-redialing, resale, telemarketing, and general business use are strictly prohibited. While FTC does not apply arbitrary limits on typical long distance usage per month, should FTC determine, in its sole discretion, that usage is not consistent with typical Residential voice usage patterns and is abusive of the Service, FTC reserves the right, after giving notice of its intent, to immediately suspend, restrict or terminate the long distance service, or to bill future excessive usage charges at the per minute rate included in the FTC Price List, without further notice. FTC reserves the right to block permanent Call Forwarding in connection with the use of Unlimited Long Distance Service. Customers must subscribe to FTC Long Distance. All rates are subject to change. FTC reserves the right to eliminate its Unlimited Long Distance Service offering or any FTC Bundle that includes Unlimited Long Distance Service at any time upon appropriate notice to all customers subscribing to the Service or Bundle, consistent with then existing Alabama law and the rules and regulations of the Alabama Public Service Commission. Additional requirements and restrictions may apply. *The rate does not include applicable taxes and fees. “We Keep You Connected” 2009 Annual Meeting Farmers Telecommunications Cooperative

Saturday, August 1, 2009 DeKalb County Schools Coliseum (Highway 35 East in Rainsville)

“We Keep You Connected”

Registration begins at 9 a.m. / Business Meeting begins at 11 a.m. Election for the Board of Trustees (Pisgah, Bryant and Geraldine Exchanges)

Free FTC Tote Bag for the first 1,000 members registered! Grand Prize: Two members will receive one year of FREE advance services from FTC! Other prizes include two high-definition LCD TV's and three $500 cash prizes! 4 Connected - July/August 2009 Those attending the Annual Meeting nying some of the of Farmers Telecommunications Coop- leading pastors and erative are sure to enjoy the music and ministries of today. ministry of the Rick Webb Family. In addition to the The Webbs are celebrating their 25th itinerate ministry year of music ministry with a strong heri- of Miles and Webb, tage and wonderful memories! Rick and Phyllis Rick and Phyllis Webb began their begin singing more professional music journey in 1978 with than 100 dates each the internationally acclaimed vocal year. group ReGeneration directed by vocal The Webbs orchestrater Derric Johnson. The ten have been afforded singers traveled 100,000 miles, reaching opportunities to more than a million lives in over 500 live share the platform performances each year. Disney World with outstanding speakers and pastors In 1997 the inception of The Rick appreciated the group so much that they throughout the United States each year. Webb Trio opened a new concept of annually showcased ReGeneration. In In addition to their concert schedule Rick ministry for the Webbs. Over the past 10 1983, Derric Johnson's singers became the and Phyllis participated in the Radio years Rick and Phyllis have enjoyed and The Voices of Liberty, the host group for Bible Class sponsored TV music ministry appreciated the vocal talents of many EPCOT Center's American Pavilion. It Day of Discovery for 10 years; The Wes- wonderful singers joining them in minis- was during this time Rick and long time leyan Hour international radio ministry try. Starr Cromer, Vernon Chandler, Les- friend Kevin Miles began the male duo sponsored by the Wesleyan Church for 20 lie Hipps and Lyn Westafer have given ministry of Miles and Webb. Rick and years; international crusades with Evan- generously their talents and lives to Kevin traveled extensively gelist Dr. Clyde Dupin for more than enhance the vocal sound of The Webbs. throughout the United States 20 years; and numerous guest appear- Today, The Webbs Music Ministry and Canada accompa- ances with such respected pastors as Dr. consists of Rick and Phyllis Webb with Charles Stanley, Dr. Charles Colson, Dr. daughter Hannah and oldest son Parker. David Jeremiah, Dr. Mac Brunson, Dr. D. James Kennedy just to name a few. Source: www.thewebbsmusicministry.com

“We Keep You Connected”

Registration begins at 9 a.m. / Business Meeting begins at 11 a.m. Annual Election for the Board of Trustees (Pisgah, Bryant and Geraldine Exchanges) Meeting Free FTC Tote Bag for the first 1,000 members registered! Entertainment Grand Prize: Two members will receive one year of FREE advance services from FTC! Other prizes include two high-definition LCD TV's and three $500 cash prizes! Connected - July/August 2009 5 Rainsville's Graham earns national FRS scholarship

Gabe Graham of Plainview High community and who have above-aver- School has been awarded a $2,500 age academic credentials. Graham re- scholarship by the Foundation for Rural ceived $2,000 from FRS plus a matching Services (FRS) and Farmers Telecommu- scholarship award of $500 from Farmers nications Cooperative. Graham is one of Telecommunications Coopereative. only 30 students across rural America to Graham plans to attend The Univer- recieve this award. sity of South Alabama where he will ma- The FRS scholarships are presented jor in computer engineering. He is the to rural high school seniors who are son of Rev. Roger and Ginger Graham of highly involved in his or her school and Rainsville.

Lewis, Rider earn FTC scholarships

At Farmers Telecommunications ment Day and the FRS Washington Youth students as they pay for the rising costs Cooperative we believe in investing in Tour, we are opening doors to our young of tuition. the future — not only for the sake of our people that will set them on a path of Each year, one scholarship is given cooperative, but for the sake of our mem- academic, professional and personal suc- to a deserving high school senior and bers and communities and families. cess. the other to a student enrolled in col- That is why each year we sponsor We understand that attending col- lege. Recipients must be members (or the events that will impact our youth in a lege is becoming more expensive every dependant of a member) of FTC. positive way. We believe that by offering year. That is why FTC offers two $1,500 Congratulations to the 2009 recipi- annual programs such as Career Enrich- scholarships each year to help assist area ents of the FTC Scholarship program! 2009 High School Senior Recipient 2009 College Recipient Amanda Lewis Christen Rider Sardis High School Snead State Community College

Amanda Lewis of Christen Rider of Rainsville is a 2009 Geraldine is a stu- graduate of Sardis dent at Snead State High School. At Community College Sardis, she was on (SSCC). While at the A & B honor roll, SSCC, Christen has a member of the Beta earned a 3.75 GPA Club and a mem- and has been named ber of Fellowship of to the Dean's List. Christian Athletes. She is also a mem- She also worked as a ber of Phi Theta tutor. Amanda plans Kappa Honor Soci- to attend Northeast ety and works as a Alabama Community private tutor in her College in the fall. spare time. 6 Connected - July/August 2009 Partnership between FTC and NACC FRS Youth Tour exposes our future provides high school seniors with leaders to U.S. history, up-close look at career opportunities telco industry issues The Class of 2009 was in the seventh who actually works in that field on a Students from rural regions across grade when Farmers Telecommunica- daily basis," says FTC General Manager America gathered in the nation's capital tions Cooperative held its first Career Fred Johnson. "Career Enrichment Day this summer to learn about the legisla- Enrichment Day in partnership with affords students that opportunity." tive process and the telecommunica- Northeast Alabama Community College. Students have three sessions to choose tions industry. On May 12, those seniors were the latest from a wide variety of speakers, covering Eric McClendon and Aaron Cain, students to benefit from the first-hand such fields as medicine, law, real estate, both of Fyffe High School, represented exposure to career options made possible education, banking and more. "We appre- the Farmers Telecommunications Coop- by the annual event. ciate our presenters for generously giving erative service area at the Foundation "I can think of no better way for a of their time," says Johnson. "And we are for Rural Services (FRS) annual Youth student to learn about a field that inter- especially thankful to NACC for partner- Tour in Washington, D.C. ests them than to speak with someone ing with us to host this event."n FTC sponsored the local students on the five-day educational trip. Melissa Pruitt, an FTC employee, and her hus- band Dale served as chaperones. The FRS Youth Tour provides stu- Fred Johnson, General dents from rural areas a first-hand look Manager of Farmers at the telecommunications industry, Telecommunications while educating them on the functions Cooperative, led the of government. Business Management In addition to visiting with elected session at the 2009 officials and industry leaders, students Career Enrichment toured several famous historical sites. Day. The event is a These included the U.S. Capitol, the joint effort between FTC Smithsonian Institution, Mount Vernon, and Northeast Alabama the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington Community College. National Cemetery. The Youth Tour is also a cultural experience for students, allowing them A special 'thank you' to our 2009 presenters time to spend with their peers from other parts of the country. Gordon Gossett, Gant, Croft and Associates Sharon Totten, NACC "Youth Tour is an excellent program Kristine Harding, JH Partners Architecture & Interiors Ronnie Neely, DeKalb Farmers Cooperative that gives our young leaders a broader Matt Guice, Edward Jones Grace Smith, Alabama Farmers Cooperative sense of the imporant role of companies Brent Satterfield, NACC Pat Allen, Pilgrim’s Pride (Human Resource Director) like FTC in rural America," says Brandi n Crystal Scott, Crystal Scott Design Peter Selman, DeKalb Regional Hospital Lyles, FTC Marketing Director. Jonathan Whitcomb, Information Engineering Curtis Parker, Federal Bureau of Investigation J.D. Davidson, The Times-Journal Nathaniel Ledbetter, Sand Mountain Electric Co-op Lee Buffington, Turf Tamer, Inc. Mindi Meadows, TheraSport Jeremy Taylor, DeKalb & Cherokee Asst. DA Pam Gann, DeKalb County Board of Education Russ Balvin and Kenny Brown, Vulcraft-Nucor Billy Jones, Sgt. 1st Class, United States Army Paul Long, Antioch Baptist Church Judith Lea, NACC Wade Phillips, Rainsville Drugs Dr. John Anderson Tim Pratt, Siemens Energy Amber Benefield, Williams Avenue Elementary School Kevin Burt, Ole Heritage Realty Dr. Anthony Sims, Henagar Family Medicine Donna Curry, TVA Dr. Cindy Jones, NACC Scott Kirk, First Southern State Bank Dr. Martin Habel, Vision Plus Sam Phillips, Phillips Engineering Brad Archer, NACC Dale Pruitt, Plainview Bear Football Amber Harrington, Sanofi-Aventis Pharmaceuticals Eric McClendon and Aaron Cain, both of Fyffe Sam Wilson, Sam Construction Adrian Casey, DeKalb County Health Department High School, represented the FTC service area Thomas Whitten, Children’s Advocacy Center during the recent FRS Youth Tour. Connected - July/August 2009 7 From the spotlight to the classroom, Dr. Kathy Adkins has a Heart for Sharing Music

By Joseph M. Morgan but upon her firsthand experiences and the Chattanooga, Tenn., area in addition knowledge obtained by spending more to playing for local churches. Throughout the years Northeast than 20 years as an artist in the music The Forester Sisters became a quar- Alabama Community College (NACC) industry. tet when younger sister Christy joined a has employed some of the most qualified “I have always loved music,” Adkins short time later and completed the group. instructors in this state and region. says. “I have been around it since I was a After long consideration and prayer, Dr. Kathy Adkins, who serves as mu- very small child. Music is everything to Kathy and June quit their day jobs and sic instructor and director of Chorus and me. I can’t imagine doing anything else. the group decided to attempt to become Encore! at NACC, is a good example of a I have been blessed to work in the field I professional artists. qualified professional. In fact, she is pos- love for my entire life.” “We decided we would give it two sibly the most well-known and critically Adkins was born and raised the old- years,” Adkins says. “That’s funny now, acclaimed professor in NACC history. est of four girls atop Lookout Mountain. all these years later, but that's what we Many in the area may not know that She grew up in a family and community committed to then.” before Adkins was a music professor and that embraces music in the small town The Forester Sisters went to Muscle director at NACC, she was Kathy For- of New Salem, Ga., between Trenton and Shoals to record a demo. Their drum- ester, member of the Grammy-nominated LaFayette, Ga. mer at the time had some contacts in the hit country music group, The Forester “Music was very common in our music industry in Nashville, Tenn., and Sisters. community,” Adkins says. “Most every- passed the group's tape along. In addition to her abilities as a gifted body sang where I grew up. It was just An executive at Warner Bros. Re- musician, Adkins has the academic a part of life. We grew up singing har- cords heard the tape and wanted to sign credentials to back up her God-given mony to Gospel music in the Methodist the sisters. When he could not reach talents. Church.” them, he left a message on their answer- She has a bachelor’s degree in piano In the late 1970’s, fresh out of col- ing machine. from Wesleyan College, a master’s lege, Adkins and her sister, June, were “We immediately thought it was a degree in Theory and Composition from working as teachers in the Georgia public joke,” Adkins says. “It’s really funny Western Kentucky University and a school system. Over the years, the two now, but, at the time, we just thought doctorate in Leadership for Teaching and sang together as a duo and had become someone was trying to be hysterical with Learning from the University of Tennes- a local favorite, often singing at churches us.” see. and other community events. The Forester Sisters signed with War- Students at NACC have the ben- They were joined by their sister Kim ner Bros. Records on July 31, 1984. efit of drawing, not only upon Adkins’ in 1978. As their popularity grew, the trio A year later in 1985, their first single, impressive academic knowledge base, began to perform at parties and shows in “That’s What You Do When You’re in 8 Connected - July/August 2009 Love,” made it to the Top Ten. Their next You have to eat a lot of crow. All of us doing some recording. It’s nice now to single, “I Fell In Love Again Last Night,” did. But in the end it brought us closer.” perform and do whatever we want and went all the way to number one. Adkins says her most memorable to do it because we enjoy it, not because Their chart-topping success contin- moments are not from winning awards it is our job. ued for six years as The Forester Sisters and recording hit songs, but from per- “We are closer now as sisters and became the first act to place each of their forming. better as musicians,” she says. “I think first fourteen singles in Billboard’s Top “When we were on the road we had we are better now than when we were Ten since the introduction of the 100-po- the opportunity to work with some of touring. We are more mature now and sition country chart. the best artists in the industry and to can enjoy things a lot more without all of In the process, they reeled off five travel all over the world,” she says. “But the pressures.” number one singles including “Just In the most meaningful experiences for me All of the Forester sisters are in Case,” “(I'd Choose) You Again,” “Ma- were our USO performances. It has truly professional jobs. June followed up her ma’s Never Seen Those Eyes,” and a duet been the highlight of my career – per- bachelor's degree in elementary educa- with The Bellamy Brothers, “Too Much Is forming for the young men and women tion with a master's in Education for the Not Enough.” of our military. Knowing that we were Visually Impaired. She teaches at Georgia On their journey they have been performing for these brave soldiers and School for the Blind where her daughter, nominated for three Grammy Awards Marines who love America, 18, 20 years Canaan is a student. Her son Carter is and named Top Vocal Group of the Year old, these soldiers who protect us and a student and her husband Joe runs the at the 1986 Academy of Country Music sacrifice for us every day. Just being able golf course that the couple own together. Awards. to bring them joy when they were away Kim and Christy went back to After taking a four-year break from from home, away from their families, I college and finished their degrees as recording, The Forester Sisters released just can’t express how much that meant well. Kim earned a bachelor’s degree in “More Than I Am,” in 1996. It was their to me.” interior design and currently works for a eleventh album with Warner Bros. and After releasing their album in 1996, company specializing in kitchen design. their first as co-producers. The Forester Sisters slowed things down Christy has a bachelor’s degree in So- After another hiatus, in 2002 they re- considerably and made the decision to ciology and works for an interior design corded a new Christmas album released end their days on the road and spend firm. She and her husband Terry have independently via their Web site. The more time with their families. two children, Maddie and Christian. album was co-produced by Kim Forester. “We performed and recorded full- Kathy and husband Terry Adkins Adkins says her career as a profes- time for 12 years,” Adkins says. “Many still live where they grew up, in the small sional musician has been a wonderful of those years we were away from home town of New Salem, Ga., only minutes experience. touring for more than 300 days per year. down the road from Kathy’s parents. “My career has given me some in- It was just time. Our children were get- Kathy and Terry enjoy being outdoors credible opportunities and experiences,” ting big enough that they didn’t want to and spending time and working on their Adkins says. “One of the most awesome travel anymore so we decided it was time farm. They have three children– Amonie, experiences in my career was when our to leave the road.” Kerry, and Cole. first song hit the charts. Adkins says she has enjoyed her Adkins says she enjoys her job at “We have been so blessed,” she adds, career and that there is not a lot about it NACC and feels blessed to continue to “to have hit records and songs, and to that she would change. work in the music field. be nominated for Grammys. But I am “I try not to look backwards,” she “Taking the job at Northeast was an proudest of my sisters, the fact that we says. “Sure, there are things I could have easy decision for me,” she says. “I have made it despite everyone telling us it done differently, but I don’t think we always wanted to teach at the college lev- would tear us apart, that we would break would change anything. I am so thank- el. I could not be happier. Our program up or one of us would go solo, that we ful that my sisters and I have been given is growing and I have some wonderful wouldn't last as a group. The fact is we opportunities and been able to experi- students who are extremely talented.” are closer now as sisters than we have ence so many wonderful things. A lot of Adkins says that her goal is to con- ever been. This opportunity allowed us people said, ‘Oh, don’t do this. You can’t tinue to improve the music program at to grow closer as a family and mature as just leave the music business.’ But I don’t NACC and to prepare her students for a individuals and musicians.” think we have any regrets about moving four-year college. However, Adkins says that despite forward with our lives. I would not give “My vision for any program I’ve being closer with her sisters today, it was up one second of the time I’ve chosen to been involved with is the same,” she not always easy on the road. spend with my kids because that’s the says. “That is to constantly improve, to “We love each other dearly,” she most fun thing I’ve ever done.” get better this year and apply that the says. “But that’s not to say there weren’t Today the Forester Sisters are focus- next year and every year, building on some all-out knock-down drag-outs ing on careers outside of music and rais- what we did the last time so that we are while we were on the road. Because ing their families. But they still perform always improving as a program and as we had our fair share of those. But still, occasionally. individuals. The students inspire me to you have to realize you wake up the “Every now and then we'll do a ben- do my best to be excellent. That is what I next morning and that person is not an efit to raise money for a cause or organi- ask of them and hopefully we can bring acquaintance. That person is your sister. zation,” Adkins says, “and we talk about that out of each other.”n Connected - July/August 2009 9 the Jane Gang Local quilters come together to recreate a civil war era fabric arts masterpiece

By Stephen V. Smith enjoy food and fellowship. of this mysterious quilter, except that They are creating their own Dear her creation continues to reach across In the days before modern heating Jane Quilts. the decades to inspire those who would systems, a quilt was an important tool in accept the challenge of recreating her keeping a person warm in bed on a cold masterpiece. winter’s night. Beyond its practical func- Jane’s legacy Several local quilters have tackled tion, the quilt also served as a decorative Jane A. Stickle was a 19th-century this challenge, forming a ‘Jane Gang’ to bed covering to add character and charm Vermont farmer who created such a jointly create a number of these unique to a home. remarkable quilt that it captivates fabric quilts. From Fort Payne to Henagar, from A great deal of skill and creativity artists to this day. It is comprised of 225 Valley Head to Pisgah, from Geraldine to is involved in creating quilts. As such, unique patterns, each an intriguing geo- Ider, the group is comprised of quilters quilting has long been recognized as a metric design that challenges any quilter. from various backgrounds and experi- folk art that reflects the unique talents According to the Web site www.dear- ence levels — all brought together by the and tastes of the quilt’s creator, as well as jane.com, Stickle completed her work of Dear Jane Quilt. the community traditions that influence art in 1863. The census taken during this Those participating in the project the work. time frame lists Stickle as a farmer. In her include: Sue Ann Jones of Fort Payne; It is this artistic expression, this im- mid-forties, she was living by herself, her Chris Murdoch of Henagar; Billie Crumly mersion in tradition, that has brought 16 husband residing with Stickle’s brother of Geraldine; Sylvia Ivey of Henagar; quilters together from across Northeast on his farm. Later in life Jane and her Linda O’Shields of Ider; Kay Thomas Alabama and beyond to jointly recreate husband were forced into bankruptcy. of Bridgeport; Judy Haas of Fort Payne; a masterpiece. Every four to six weeks, a She was living as a boarder in 1896 when Bobbie Houston of Fort Payne; Anne group of friends gathers at a local home she passed away. Barrett of Grove Oak; Marion O’Brien to swap quilt squares, tell stories, and Little else is known about the life of Valley Head; Jackie Carter of Pisgah; 10 Connected - July/August 2009 Genella Tolbert of Henagar; Susan Elliot of Henagar; Leslie Thorne of Fort Payne; Lisa Saylor of Grant; and Harold Norris of Acworth, Georgia. The process The Dear Jane project is a cooperative effort. Participants draw numbers to see which one of the intricate squares they will create next. While there are 16 indi- viduals involved, three are making two quilts each (Murdoch, Barrett and Nor- ris). Therefore everyone makes 19 copies of their assigned square and brings them to the next swap. Each quilter then goes home with their designs plus 15 others. “This is advanced work, rather than beginner or intermediate,” explains Bar- rett. “The squares are four-and-a-half inches, and some of them have as many as 40 or 50 pieces in them. It’s very intri- cate, very time-consuming.” To stay true to the original Jane A. Stickle design, the quilters attempt to match the color and pattern of each spe- cific block. “Every block is different, and each block is supposed to be a different fabric,” Barrett says. “We have duplicat- ed some, because you’re limited by how much fabric you can find, in this part of

Ann Barrett of Grove Oak sorts through the quilt squares brought to the meeting by the the country anyway.” participants in the Dear Jane Quilt project. Once all squares and points are com- plete, the group members must put their quilts together. “That process will take largest collection of Grandma Moses art three to four months,” says Barrett. and memorabilia available to the public.” This is not the first Jane Gang project Many questions remain surrounding for Barrett. She was involved in a project the original Jane A. Stickle quilt. No one that concluded in 2006; the resulting quilt knows what inspired her to tackle such a has won numerous best of show and complicated design, nor is it known how viewers choice honors in quilt shows in long the intricate work of art took her to Alabama and Tennessee. complete. With sewing machines a rarity in that era, it is assumed she created the legendary quilt by hand. The legend lives on To learn more about Jane A. Stickle The object of so many quilters’ fasci- and her quilt, visit www.dearjane. com. nation is still in pristine condition. It is on The Web site is maintained by Brenda The Dear Jane quilt features over 200 intricate display seasonally at the Bennington Mu- Manges Papadakis, international quilting and geometrically diverse pieces. seum in Vermont, which, according to its instructor and author of books about the Web site, is the “trusted caretaker of the quilt.n Connected - July/August 2009 11 Samuel Hairston inspired many through his

By Joseph M. LifeMorgan Samuel,of then 17, was Faith focused on the typical issues There are things in life that are very facing many teenagers today difficult to understand, possibly nothing — juggling the pressures of more so than when a child leaves us in high school, family, church, the prime of his youth. spending time with girl- And while the passing of 18-year-old friend Brooke, his part-time Samuel Burke Hairston might have some job at Lucky's Supermarket people looking up and asking 'why?', it and feeding an insatiable is a question he never felt the need to ask. desire to play music. Described as funny, compassionate, Dealing with a little kind and outgoing, Hairston possessed, numbness in the fingertips in the midst of tragedy and despair, an probably seemed like a mi- unshakable faith and love of life that nor inconvenience at the allowed him to transform tragedy into time. That is, until Feb. 4, triumph — and touch the lives of all who 2008, when the numbness knew him along the way. spread all the way down the left side of his body. After visits to the fam- Symptoms begin ily doctor and local neurolo- Samuel as a In January 2008 Samuel began feeling gist Dr. Dave Koury, Samuel baby (left) and at 13 years a slight tingle — a numbness — in the was referred to specialists at old on Orange Beach fingertips of his left hand. It probably UAB Hospital. didn't seem like a very big deal at the Following the examina- me. And if he time, certainly nothing to worry over. tion and an MRI at UAB were words that wants to take me home with Him, He would change the lives of the Hairston will take me home with Him. Either way, family forever: "Your son has cancer." I'm gonna be okay Mama." Doctors at UAB explained to the fam- A few days after he was diagnosed, ily that Samuel had a tumor on the right Samuel visited Children's Hospital in side of his brain stem that was affecting Birmingham. Although the cancer was his central nervous system. They further inoperable, Samuel's doctors hoped explained that the cancer was inoperable radiation and chemotherapy treatments and that Samuel had very little chance of could shrink the size of the tumor. surviving. Every day for six weeks he received treatment, inspiring staff members and fellow patients alike with his smile, hu- Attitude of faith mor and attitude of faith. The treatments No graduation. No more proms. No all but stopped the tumor's growth for a college. No more hanging out with bud- while, and Samuel returned home at the dies or dates with the girlfriend. No more end of March 2008. musical jam sessions in the garage with He jumped right back into his busy the guys. How, at 17 years old, would life as a junior at Pisgah High School. most respond to this news? Angry? Up- In fact, he made it back just in time to set? Emotional? Irrational? attend the Pisgah High School prom, Not Samuel. As his mother stood where he and girlfriend Brooke Moore before him in that doctor's office, Samuel were voted prom prince and princess. looked her straight in her tear-filled eyes At the end of the school year in May, THE HAIRSTON FAMILY—Pictured­ in Jan. 2007 and calmly said, "Mama. It's going to be another MRI showed Samuel's tumor are (clockwise from bottom left) Randy, Samuel, okay. I will be fine, Mama, just fine. If to be stable. That summer he was still Sheila and Jesse. the Lord wants to heal me, he will heal able to drive, play music and spend time 12 Connected - July/August 2009 hanging out with friends. Samuel, made sure to tell his big brother "Samuel In fact, for a while at least, life was two things—'I love you' and 'I hope you was an amaz- almost normal. In August, Samuel even have a good day today.' ing person," went back to school, where he was active Samuel's father Randy, employed by Sheila says. in clubs and organizations such as FFA, Chattanooga Group in Tenn. and also a "Through Beta Club and Mu Alpha Theta. licensed minister of 38 years, led the fam- his entire ill- ily in a nightly Bible study and prayer—a ness, all that tradition Samuel insisted on. we have are Cancer's vengence "Regardless of how he felt or what good mem- The following month, Samuel's was going on, Samuel made sure we ories. He health took a turn for the worse. He had Bible study every night at home," never al- began to have trouble with his balance, Sheila says. "It really gave us strength lowed the and in October he began to experience and brought us together. It made us grow disease to double vision. Due to his worsening con- stronger in the Lord and in each other." take away One of Sheila Hairston's favorite dition, Samuel's last day of high school Sheila also points to others in the his happi- photos of Samuel, at age 10 was October 6, 2008. community as a source of strength. When ness. We As the Hairstons feared, the next Samuel was no longer strong enough to never had to MRI showed that the tumor had grown. go to church, his Sunday School class, led see him in misery and despair, and that Samuel began another round of che- by C.J. Buttram, held class in the Hair- is a blessing to us and a testament of who motherapy and radiation in October (a ston home so that he could take part. he was and how strong he was. December MRI would later show that the "This entire community has em- Besides these memories, Samuel treatments shrunk the tumor consider- braced us and helped lift us up," Sheila leaves behind a legacy of faith. "He ably, but his symptoms never improved). says. "We have strong Christian friends showed people that no matter what In October, Sheila, a 32-year em- and church and family that have been comes along, there is joy in life and you ployee of Northeast Alabama Commu- wonderful to pray for us and bring us can find the strength through God to nity College, decided to take a leave from countless cards and meals. We have face another day," Sheila says. "I hope his work to spend time with her oldest son experienced so many blessings through story inspires people, and that they can during his last months. all of this." find joy and peace in their own lives." "That time with Samuel is very spe- Samuel Hairston lived every day, cial to me," Sheila says. "We shared every even his last, with joy and peace. And al- day together. We talked and laughed and Going home though cancer finally defeated his body, prayed. He was still so full of happi- On May 15, 2009, Samuel Burke it never conquered his spirit or his faith. ness and life! We did not spend our time Hairston left this earth for a better place. Nor did it defeat his family. Al- in mourning. It was a time spent in joy Three days later, on May 18, more than though she mourns the loss of her son, and love between mother and son that I 870 attended his visitation. It is reported Sheila never stops smiling while talking would not trade for the world." that the line for the funeral procession about her son. Somehow she is okay. The remaining months of Samuel's was more than three miles ling. Somehow she is at peace. life would bring the Hairston family On May 26, Samuel's classmates "It is our faith," she explains simply. closer than they had ever been. They held their high school graduation. At "It's impossible to make it through some- relied on their faith and each other to see the ceremony, each of the 72 members of thing like this without faith. You must them through their difficult journey. Pisgah High School Class of 2009 placed have a personal relationship with the Every day before leaving for school, a long-stemmed red rose in front of Lord and draw strength from His word. Samuel's brother Jesse, who is only 14 Samuel's senior portrait. It was a gesture We have comfort and peace in knowing months and five days younger than that moved many to tears. that we will see Samuel again."n

Samuel Hairston will continue to impact lives through memorial scholarship fund at NACC Samuel's family recently established the checks payable to NACC. Include a brief note Samuel Hairston Memorial Scholarship in his with your check or write Samuel Hairston honor. Memorial Scholarship Fund in the memo sec- "Attending college was very important to tion of the check. Mail checks to: Samuel," Sheila says. "I know it would make Northeast Alabama Community College him very happy to be able to help someone ATTN: Business Office go to college." PO Box 159 If you would like to donate to the Samuel Rainsville, AL 35986 Hairston Memorial Scholarship Fund, make You will be mailed a receipt for your gift.

Connected - July/August 2009 13 DeKalb County Fiddlers’ Convention August 1 Come enjoy this day-long event with tons of pickin’ and even Upcoming more grinnin’! Founded in 1908, the convention features over 10 categories in which contestants can register to participate, including old-time fiddling, banjos, Events blue grass, and much more. For more information about admission or entry fees, contact the Big Wills Arts Council at 256-845-2224.

5th Annual Fyffe UFO

Days DeKalb County Lake

August 28 – 29 Don’t miss this truly Unforgettable Family Outing! This unique festival Bass Tournament includes arts and crafts, children’s games, antique tractors and Civil War re-enactors. UFO enthusiasts and August 29 Get ready to bait your hooks and skeptics alike will enjoy live entertainment and food cast your lines! DeKalb Public Fishing Lake is hosting a that is out of this world! Look up in the sky and you Tournament for all you bass fishermen! The tournament might not see a flying saucer, but you WILL see fun will begin at 6:00 a.m. and end at noon. There is a $20 and colorful hot air balloons. Join family and friends entry fee that does not cover your permit. First, second for the traditional street dance to top off this weekend and third place winners will receive a percentage of entry of summertime fun. Call 256-623-2222 for more fees, and the fisherman who catches the biggest bass information. of the day will win $50. (Fishing stories not accepted!) Please call to verify date. 256-657-1300

Boom Days Heritage Celebration September 12 - 19 Ider Mule Days This annual art and musical event displays citizens of Fort Payne taking a second look at their past September 7 Celebrate Sand Mountain’s rich and the heritage passed down to agricultural heritage with a day of family fun! Starting with them through the arts and crafts of a parade of mules, horses, carriages, antique tractors and our area. The Boom Days Heritage more at 9:30 a.m., this festival is sure to be fun for all ages. Celebration will feature many of A horse pull, mule pull, antique tractors and cars, arts and these facets in the presentation crafts, food from local vendors, children’s games, and so of musical performances as well much more make this day one you won’t want to miss! Call as art displays in Fort Payne City 256-657-4184 for additional information. Park. 256-845-2741

14 Connected - July/August 2009 Sand Naomi Hilley Mountain Naomi Hilley of Fyffe has seen many her church, things change since she was born 79 years and she Kitchens ago. But, one thing that has not changed at all also loves to is her love of cooking. garden. “I like “I started cooking at a very young age,” cooking with Hilley recalls. “I had to stand on a chair to my homegrown reach the table while cooking corn bread.” fruits and vegetables,” Today, Hilley cooks for her husband of she says. “I think cooking with fresh ingre- almost 62 years, Melvin, her daughter, Anita dients keeps your body healthy. Melvin and Johnson of Geraldine, and two grown grand- I have never been sick enough to go to the children, Justin and Allison. She also enjoys hospital.” cooking for her church family at Flat Rock, This month, Hilley shares some of her fa- where Melvin serves as minister. vorite recipes. “I like everyday Country cook- Hilley was recognized by Times Journal ing,” she comments. “I enjoy simple food in 2000 for her outstanding sweet potato pie with good flavor.” and given the title of Best Overall Cook. “These are all recipes I use very fre- Outside of the kitchen, Hilley leads a quently.” Hilley says. “My family asks for the very active life. She enjoys sewing and quilt- sweet potato casserole at every get-together.” ing with quilting guilds in both Fort Payne And, if you're looking for a tasty snack, try and Scottsboro. Hilley is very involved in the cheese wafers or angel crisp cookies.

Sweet Potato Casserole Cheese Wafers 1 stick margarine 3 cups mashed sweet potatoes 1/4 lb extra sharp cheddar cheese 2 to 2-1/2 cups broth 1 cup sugar 1 stick butter 1/2 cup chopped onion 1 stick margarine Salt to taste 1 cup sweet milk 1/4 cup sweet milk 1/2 tsp red pepper 1/2 cup mayonnaise 2 eggs 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans 3/4 tsp salt 1 tsp vanilla extract 1-1/4 cups sifted all-purpose flour 2 eggs 1 can cream of chicken soup Mix well and pour in a lightly greased Let cheese and butter come to room tem- 1 can cream of celery soup 9x13 inch dish. perature. Mix together with high speed Pepper and sage to taste Topping mixer. Stir in flour and pepper. Add cheese. 1 cup chopped nuts Fold in nuts. Roll dough in a medium long Mix last 10 ingredients and pour over 1 cup brown sugar roll and chill for 24 hours. Slice into thin chicken and bread crumbs. Mix well. 1 stick margarine wafers and bake on a greased cookie sheet Must be soupy. Let set overnight if pos- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour for 25 minutes in a 325º oven. sible. Bake in a 325º oven for 40 minutes or until done. Mix well and put on top of sweet potato Angel Crisp Cookies mixture. Bake in oven at 350º for about Cream together: Ice Box Rolls 30 minutes. 1 cup sugar 1 cup sweet milk 1/2 cup margarine 2 pkgs. dry yeast 24 Hour Salad 1/2 cup shortening 1 cup warm water 1 can Eagle Brand milk Add: 1 tsp salt 1/3 cup lemon juice 1 egg 4 Tbsp sugar 1 large Cool Whip 1 tsp vanilla 6 Tbsp oil or melted shortening 1 large can crushed pineapple, drained Stir in: 5 cups bread flour 1 large can fruit cocktail, drained 2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour Soft margarine 1 cup miniature marshmallows 1 tsp cream of tartar 1/2 cup raisins 1 tsp salt Pour milk in a large mixing bowl. Dis- 1/2 cup coconut 1 tsp baking soda solve yeast in warm water and add to 1/2 cup maraschino cherries milk. Add salt, sugar, and oil. Add flour 1 cup chopped pecans Mix well and make into balls of desired to make a stiff dough. Set in refrigerator size. Flatten out thinly with fork. Place overnight. When ready to bake, roll out Mix Eagle Brand milk and lemon juice. on greased cookie sheet. Back 10-12 min- about one inch thick and cut with biscuit Add Cool Whip and mix well. Add all utes in a 350º oven. cutter. Spread soft margarine on top of other ingredients and fold together. Pour rolls and let rise until doubled in size. into serving dish and decorate with cher- Chicken and Dressing Bake in a 350º oven for 20-25 minutes. ries, pecans and marshmallows. Let set 1 chicken, stewed and de-boned in refrigerator for 24 hours and serve. 4 cups corn bread crumbs Connected - July/August 2009 15 Pre-sort Standard US Postage Paid Metro Mail 36201 P.O.“W Boxe Keep 217• You Connected” 144 McCurdy Ave. N. Rainsville, Alabama 35986

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Rainsville Fort Payne Centre 638-2100 516-2100 484-9291 Inside FTC Office In same plaza as wingstop In same plaza as Piggly Wiggly