We heard from Glenn Koch, Sr. recently. Glenn works for the Huntsville Police Department and has a special request. He said he wants to wish his beautiful wife the happiest 34th wedding anniversary, on December 14th, and to let her know how much he loves her. Paula Koch has been the Floor manager and Membership Coordinator for over 13 years at Valley Hill Country Club, and he is so proud of her. Glenn has been a police officer now for 36 years! I just love a romantic man!
There have been many instances of purse snatching and attacks on women at the malls and their parking lots. This time of year is especially bad for that, just make sure that when you come out of the store you are very aware of who is around you especially as you get near your car. And don't be embarrassed to ask for someone to walk you to your car if you feel uneasy.
We were really sorry to hear that Alan Jenkin 's father had passed away. William (Bill) Howard Jenkins was only 78 when he died. Bill worked for NASA here for nearly 30 years, was a private pilot for more than 40 years. He was a member of Southside Baptist Church, was an active supporter of The Land Trust of Huntsville, and was a founding member of Outreach, a halfway house for troubled teens. I know his family is so proud of him. We send our deepest sympathy to Alan and his wife Debra , and to Emma Jenkins , Bill's wife of 53 years, as well as the many friends and family who will miss him so much.
We were very proud of our friend Bill Poole (Bill Poole Real Estate) who was recently named Realtor of the Year for this area, as well as State of Alabama Realtor of the Year! Congratulations, Bill, it is well deserved!
For our newcomers to Huntsville , one of the most beautiful events here is the Spirit of Christmas Past Homes Tour & Luminaries. This year it will take place on Saturday, December 13, from 5-9pm on McClung Ave. in the Twickenham Historic District. In case of rain, it'll be moved to Sunday, the 14th. Thousands of candles will line every street in the historic districts including Old Town, and it is just breathtaking. Wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing!
Gladys Waggett was the loving wife, mom and grandmother who died November 21 at the age of 86. Her son, Joe Waggett, Jr. , cared for her for years to make sure she was always comfortable. We send our deepest condolences to Joe, his wife Liz, their children and grandchildren.
It was great meeting Nancy Lamb recently, of New York Life. She is a sweet lady who works with Mack Vann , agent of NYL Insurance Company, and is really looking forward to Christmas this year!
Dorothy Durham was born and raised in Huntsville but she currently lives in Arab. She is having a birthday in February and is now 86! She has lots of great memories of early days in Huntsville. It was great talking with her!
Rosemary Leatherwood 's dear mother Mary Branche Richardson passed away on November 12, 2008. She is survived by her wonderful husband, Billy Richardson , 5 daughters, 5 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. Mary was a beautiful person, inside and out, and loved her family so much. She will be greatly missed by the family and friends she leaves behind.
Happy birthday to that sweet boy, Austin Pinkerton, who will be 10 on December 28. Proud mama is Jamie Leatherwood , who has another sweet boy, Chase , who is 8.
With prices going up everyday and all of us trying to eat healthier, the Farmer's Market is the place to go! The big one on Cook Avenue, just south of Oakwood on No. Parkway, has a good supply of greens, apples, oranges, etc. and just interesting stuff to look at. Check them out - they're open 7 days a week.
John Henegar is having a December birthday again, and his party at Lee Ann's Restaurant is legend in these parts! What a great time everyone had last year. He plans to do it again this year, same time, same place.
The new Dog Park off Church Street close to downtown Huntsville is very popular with dogs and owners alike! The dogs get to run and get exercise, while the dog owners get to know each other. On a nice day, the park is very crowded. Now we hear that there will be another dog park built off Drake Avenue, near the Senior Center, on the north side of Drake, around Brahan Spring park. Money is being collected for that purpose now.
We heard recently from a really sweet guy, Robert Watson of Huntsville. He loves any kind of history and in fact has a BA in history. He loves Huntsville history as well and is just an interesting guy!!
Another item for you newcomers to Huntsville - you have got to experience Harrison Brothers Hardware Store on the square in downtown Huntsville. It is in an old building and has continually been in business since 1879! Set aside at least 45 minutes to browse through all the stuff - from old-fashioned kids toys to glassware and kitchen utensils (like real cast iron pots!) It is amazing, specially around the holidays.
Our good friend Robert Madison had to spend some time in the hospital lately, and we just want to send our love and best wishes to him!
Everyone knows or has seen Jackie Reed on the televised city council meetings every other Thursday night - Jackie is an advocate for the residents of Huntsville and she works hard to make sure our governmental bodies stay on their toes. In August of this year Jackie was awarded the Rosa Parks Woman of Courage Medal from the local branch of the NAACP. In late November the Council passed a resolution to honor her continual efforts to make city government really work for the people. This was attended by Jackie and her family as well as a large crowd. Well deserved, Jackie!
Happy Birthday to my sweetie, Tom Carney , who has a December birthday.
Please remember to check on your older friends and neighbors during this really cold weather, it could possibly save their life.


