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The Story of Bringing the Madison Mural Trail to Life

05/24/2024

Madison, Alabama is finally home to two stunning murals. Both are grand in size, bold in color, and rich with meaning. Read on to learn how the first two murals along Madison’s very own mural trail came to fruition.

Bringing murals to Madison: Surely it’s as easy as picking some fun designs, grabbing some paint, and getting them thrown up on some exterior walls to add just a little bit of color to the city, right?

Err, not quite! The “behind the scenes” process of bringing something new (such as a couple of new murals) to a city is often much more involved and costly than one may assume, but a few local groups worked together diligently to bring the Madison Mural Trail to life! Here’s the story.

In case you haven’t heard (or seen them!), Madison now has two visually stunning, expansive murals right smack in the middle of our community.

A landscape-orientation mural is located on the east-facing wall of Filthy Gorgeous in downtown Madison and is a nod to our community’s historical roots.

A portrait-orientation mural is located within The Avenue community just south of Downtown Madison on a north-facing wall beside Honest Coffee. This mural is a nod to the growth of Madison as well as the migratory path of the Monarch butterfly.
 

COMING TOGETHER

The mural project began nearly 12 months ago after a few community members brought the idea to city leaders in Madison. Madison Visionary Partners soon came on board with support and rapidly put the pedal to the metal to get the ball rolling with funding, location approval, artistic selection, and more. 

Executive Director Melanie Thornton says that this project was a “perfect fit” for MVP.

“We see murals all over Alabama in both big and small cities, and we wanted that for Madison too.”

She shares that “public art displays tell the stories of a community and bring people together.”

The Madison Arts Alliance also brought their expertise in mural maintenance to assist with the long term care of the murals.

Thornton worked hard with Mayor of Madison Paul Finley and other city leaders to have an ordinance put in place that would allow art like this in Madison to move forward. 

A mural advisory board was formed and location ideas were suggested. 

 

LOCATION SELECTIONS

Selecting locations was more challenging than it may seem because the right spots for a mural had to checkmark a handful of boxes, especially the Downtown Madison mural, where century-old buildings must be protected and respected.

Public viewability and accessibility are also important, so options were further limited. 

 

Cindy Sensenberger, the owner of the far-west downtown building that houses businesses such as Filthy Gorgeous and Pure Barre, was enthusiastic from the beginning and supportive of a mural being painted along the north-facing side. This checked the box for the historical downtown mural.

Charlie Sealy, Vice President of Sealy Management Company, and Christy Wimberly, owner of Honest Coffee, had had conversations about bringing a mural to The Avenue already, so they were easily on board with Thornton’s suggestion to move forward with an Avenue mural location.

ARTIST SELECTIONS

Ann Moeller was hand-selected by the MVP Board of Directors to paint The Avenue mural, named “March of the Monarch”.

“We wanted a local artist,” shared Thornton, who explains that Moeller is from Madison with children in the school system.

She was first discovered by the advisory committee after her mural within the new Kroger on the corner of County Line Road and Highway 72 was recognized. 

“We loved the look of the mural she painted in Kroger, so we approached her with our idea. She has roots here, and we knew that she was exactly what we were looking for.”

The inset in the brick wall fits a perfect 15.5’ wide by 26’ tall mural. 

The Madison Mural in downtown was completed by Sonya Clemons, known as The Art Lady.

“I’ve been a huge fan of her work for years,” explains Thornton. “I love her style, and she has done great work with a few historic murals already.”

Thornton says that the committee loved that she is from North Alabama as well.

“Her artwork is very engaging and just leaves you wanting a little bit more.”

DESIGNS

Thornton says that the “March of the Monarch” mural is a thoughtful and purposeful design that beautifies the city while also serving as an educational opportunity.

Inspired by a desire for a garden-themed mural that reflects the city’s growth and evolution, the committee behind the design chose the monarch butterfly as a symbol for two reasons. Firstly, Madison sits on the migratory trail for monarch butterflies, making it a fitting choice that resonates with the local environment. The design focuses on the significance of planting pollinator plants and showcasing the life cycle of the monarch butterfly. Secondly, it ties into our city’s evolution and transformation. 

This mural would not have been possible without funding support from organizations like the Huntsville Area Association of Realtors, Toyota of Alabama, Sealy Management, and Bank Independent.

For the Downtown Madison Mural, a heavy priority was creating a design appealing to children. Anything that felt overly serious or heavy was out of the picture.

“We wanted you to leave with a sense of happiness, so every element is very intentional and designed to be inclusive.”

The Mural Advisory Committee worked alongside local historian John Rankin to examine major parts of Madison’s history and determine what would be best for the mural. 

“We can’t put all of Madison’s history on one wall,” explains Thornton as she elaborates on how coming up with the design was trickier than it may seem. 

Both murals will have nearby plaques with website information that will help viewers dive deeper into the symbolism of what they see. 

This mural would not have been possible without funding support from the Alabama State Council on the Arts as well as District 4 State Representative Parker Moore, who championed this project from the beginning. 

Thornton says that she would be remiss to not give great thanks to the Madison Station Historic Preservation Commission as well as Madison’s Director of Development Services Mary Beth Broeren who took these projects on their backs and worked hard to get them approved. 

And here’s more good news: Phase Two of the Madison Mural Trail is already underway!

To learn more about the Madison Mural Trail and keep up with future additions, click here!

VISIT THE MURALS

“MADISON MURAL”: 14 Main Street, Madison, AL 35758

“MARCH OF THE MONARCH”: 92 Shorter Street, Madison, Alabama 35758

Written by: All Things Madison

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Staff Spotlight: Diane Stevenson

04/26/2024

Navigating the Real Estate Realm: A Day in the Life of Diane Stevenson

With the dawn of a new day, Diane Stevenson, Member Service Specialist for HAAR and ValleyMLS, prepares for another day of diverse challenges and enriching engagements. Whether she’s processing applications or overseeing lockbox and e-key issuance, Diane’s role plays a pivotal part in ensuring the seamless operation of the Huntsville Area Association of REALTORS®.
An average day in Diane’s shoes is anything but ordinary. Juggling various tasks with finesse, she handles the intricacies of member care. Whether addressing inquiries over the phone or meticulously managing Sentrilock inventory, each duty contributes to the seamless operation of the association.
Among her primary responsibilities, Diane takes immense pride in overseeing the SentriLock transition. This monumental project underscores her commitment to ensuring every member’s needs are met with precision and care.
What Diane enjoys about working at HAAR is the familial atmosphere. Embracing Christian values and fostering camaraderie, the association stands as a pillar of support and encouragement for its members.
 

Reflecting on her journey at HAAR:

Diane acknowledges the evolution of her role from the front desk to member care specialist. Through years of dedicated service, she has cultivated a deep understanding of REALTOR® needs and the inner workings of the association. This firsthand experience fuels her motivation to provide unparalleled support to members, contributing to the association’s remarkable growth and success.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Diane finds joy in the simple things in life. A devoted wife and mother of four, she treasures moments spent with family, especially during travels to Destin, their favorite city. Tending to their home and garden brings her peace, particularly amidst the spring greenery in Huntsville.
Diane Stevenson’s role as a Member Care Specialist embodies the values of integrity and genuine care. She continues elevating the service standard, leaving a positive mark on the hearts and businesses of association members.
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Fair Housing Champions: Huntsville Housing Authority

04/25/2024

In the housing world, Jacqueline Egbujo stands as an advocate of change. As the Executive Operations Manager at the Huntsville Housing Authority, her dedication to fostering inclusive communities and dismantling barriers to housing access has left a mark on the landscape of Huntsville.
With a passion for social justice, Egbujo has dedicated her career to ensuring that every individual, regardless of background, has the opportunity to secure safe and affordable housing. Her work goes beyond the confines of her role; it embodies a deep-seated commitment to upholding the principles of fairness and equity.
Egbujo spearheads initiatives alongside Executive Director Antonio McGinnis to promote awareness of Fair Housing laws and empower individuals to assert their rights. From educational workshops to community outreach programs, she has advocated for the importance of inclusivity and diversity within housing.
Her impact extends beyond her professional duties. She catalyzes change, inspiring those around her to take action. Her leadership within the Huntsville Housing Authority is a testament to her unwavering commitment to the cause of equitable housing.
 
As we look toward the future, Egbujo remains a force in the fight for Fair Housing. Her passion, advocacy, and commitment to justice serve as hope for communities striving to create a world where everyone has a place to call home.
 
In the heart of Huntsville, Jacqueline Egbujo stands as a reminder that change is possible and that together, we can build a future where equitable housing is not just a dream but a reality for all.
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BREAKING: ValleyMLS to Withdraw from ALEX Data Share

04/22/2024

ValleyMLS is announcing today that it has given notice of its intent to terminate its partnership with Greater Alabama MLS in the Alabama Exchange (ALEX) data share, effective June 16th, 2024. After careful evaluation and gathering direct feedback from subscribers, the ValleyMLS Board of Directors determined that continuing to participate in ALEX was no longer in the best interest of REALTORS® and their clients.

After June 16th, listings from Greater Alabama MLS will no longer appear in ValleyMLS, and ValleyMLS listings will no longer be transmitted to Birmingham.

ValleyMLS will continue to institute bold and ambitious programs for its subscribers. A key component of managing any data share project we undertake is regular evaluation of its effectiveness for you and your clients.
We are grateful for the effort and energy of our volunteer leaders who worked tirelessly on ALEX. What we’ve learned from the ALEX initiative will help us tremendously in the successful implementation of future data share projects with new partners.
We look forward to future opportunities that will allow us to retain data integrity while providing greater access to information for our members, partners, and consumers.

Please feel free to reach out to the Leadership Team, the ValleyMLS Board of Directors, or the MLS staff with any questions.
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Botanical Garden Ticket Program Ending April 30th

04/22/2024

After more than two years, HAAR’s partnership that provides day passes to members and their clients is coming to an end at the end of the month. All tickets already distributed have an expiration date of April 30th.
We thank the Huntsville Botanical Garden for the opportunity and look forward to more partnerships with them that provide value to our members and enrich the community – something that HBG has done for years and years.
Please visit HSVBG.org for the latest programs offered by the HBG.
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Fair Housing Champions: the Alabama Housing Finance Authority

04/11/2024

Meet Alana Beaugez from the Alabama Housing Finance Authority! ✨🏡
As we celebrate Fair Housing Month this April, HAAR is thrilled to spotlight organizations across the state that are champions for Fair Housing.  
AHFA is dedicated to making homeownership a reality for ALL Alabama residents. This April, they are reintroducing a powerful tool for REALTORS®: the First Step Mortgage Revenue Bond program!
What’s in the Toolbox?
  • Down payment assistance
  • Grants toward closing costs
  • Mortgage Credit Certificates for incredible tax savings
  • Below-market interest rates through the First Step program
Mark your calendars! The First Step program is set to launch this April, bringing back opportunities for homeownership that have helped 50,000 Alabama families before. Keep an eye on your inbox and our social media for updates or visit AHFA.com for more info.

Homeownership Knows No Boundaries
Regardless of race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, or national origin, homeownership brings stability to communities. “It’s a commitment to stay, work, pay taxes, and contribute to the greater good, said Beaugez. “Plus, it’s an economic equalizer, leveling the playing field for generations to come.”
 
Color-Blind Process, Equal Opportunity
The application process is completely color-blind. Every applicant receives equal consideration based on neutral qualifications. With the support of AHFA’s REALTOR® partners and lenders, they are committed to upholding fair housing practices every step of the way.
 
Every Household Has a Story
Behind every application is a unique family with dreams of stability and security. Homeownership isn’t just about numbers—it’s about building wealth and economic stability for future generations.
 
Let’s Connect!
As Beaugez travels across our beautiful state, she is inspired by the shared dedication to these goals. You can work with her to educate potential homebuyers through CE classes, lunch and learns, or Q&A sessions tailored to your needs. Schedule a free event for your office or team by emailing her at abeaugez@ahfa.com.

Let’s expand program options and client bases together, empowering first-time and modest-income homebuyers with AHFA tools. Here’s to building brighter futures, one home at a time! 🏡💫 #FairHousingMonth #HomeownershipForAll #AHFACommunityImpact
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Staff Spotlight: David Cruse

04/11/2024

Leading the Charge in Security and Tech at HAAR and ValleyMLS

In the fast-paced tech world, David Cruse shines as a Sr. Technology Specialist, dedicated to keeping HAAR and ValleyMLS ahead in efficiency and security. His daily grind is a mix of troubleshooting, updating, and innovating; tackling everything from fundamental backup changes to complex server optimizations. 
His coworkers have seen Dave thrive in this dynamic environment, always ready to revive faltering tech or spearhead projects like network security upgrades and migrating to Microsoft 365, enhancing operational capabilities and cybersecurity.
Cruse’s journey from field troubleshooting to an in-house focus allows him to dive deeper into strategic projects, emphasizing the importance of cybersecurity in today’s digital age. 
Looking forward, he’s keen on mastering the administrative facets of technology projects, underscoring the completeness of a project with its paperwork.
Off the clock, Cruse enjoys the tranquility of North Alabama, indulging in home-cooked meals and the comfort of his favorite TV shows. 
His path into tech, shaped by military service, instills a blend of technical prowess, discipline, and adaptability. For Cruse, the ever-evolving tech landscape fuels his passion, driving him to keep pace and lead the charge in innovation and security.
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The Truth About the NAR Settlement Agreement

03/27/2024

The following was published by the NAR legal team on March 22, 2024.

Misinformation has been pervasive in the media over real estate commissions. Here are the facts you should know.

The national conversation around real estate commissions reached a crescendo since the National Association of REALTORS® announced a settlement agreement that would resolve litigation brought on behalf of home sellers related to broker commissions. Brokers and agents have their own questions about what comes next for their businesses, while at the same time trying to answer consumer inquiries. And many headlines aren’t separating fact from fiction, feeding misinformation to you and your clients.
Let’s clear the air: There’s no doubt the litigation—including copycat lawsuits that were filed after the Sitzer-Burnett verdict—caused considerable uncertainty in an industry already dealing with the effects of low inventory and interest rate increases. The settlement, which must be approved by a judge, provides a path forward for real estate professionals, REALTOR® associations, brokerages, MLSs and other industry stakeholders. Most importantly, it gives NAR members the chance to refocus on their core mission to support buyers and sellers.

Facts First

There’s much the media has gotten wrong about NAR’s settlement, which would require the association to pay $418 million over four years. Some outlets have suggested that NAR previously set or guided commissions to a standard rate of 6%. Even President Joe Biden, in recent comments, misspoke in suggesting that the settlement makes commissions negotiable for the first time.
You know that is false. NAR does not set commissions, and commissions were negotiable long before this settlement. They are and will remain entirely negotiable between brokers and their clients. And housing prices are dictated by market forces beyond members’ control.
Getting the facts right is important, especially because the settlement agreement is complex. NAR is continuing to engage with media to correct inaccurate reporting about the settlement. Members are also encouraged to refer to official NAR sources, like facts.realtor, for the most accurate and up-to-date information about the settlement and what it means for consumers.
The settlement achieves two important goals: protecting members to the greatest extent possible and preserving consumer choice. The proposed settlement:
  1. Resolves claims against NAR and nearly every member; all state, territorial and local REALTOR® associations; all association-owned MLSs; and all brokerages with an NAR member as principal whose residential transaction volume in 2022 was $2 billion or below.
  2. Preserves cooperative compensation as an option for consumers looking to buy or sell a home—as long as such offers of compensation occur off of the MLS.
NAR fought for a release that covered all industry players, but large settlements reached by other corporate defendants shaped the negotiations. Throughout the settlement process, NAR also engaged with a diverse range of members to consider their perspectives and interests.
“Ultimately, continuing to litigate would have hurt members and their small businesses,” NAR Interim CEO Nykia Wright said in a statement. “While there could be no perfect outcome, this agreement is the best outcome we could achieve in the circumstances. It provides a path forward for our industry, which makes up nearly one-fifth of the American economy, and NAR. For over a century, NAR has protected and advanced the right to real property ownership in this country, and we remain focused on delivering on that core mission.”

How To Know If You’re Covered

Nearly every member is covered by the release NAR negotiated in the settlement. The members not covered are those affiliated with HomeServices of America, the last co-defendant in the Sitzer-Burnett litigation, and the employees of the co-defendants in the Gibson and Umpa cases.
If you are affiliated with any of the following brokerage groups and are an independent contractor licensee, you are covered by the proposed settlement, even if your brokerage may not be covered:
  • At World Properties LLC
  • Compass Inc.
  • Douglas Elliman Inc.
  • Douglas Elliman Realty LLC
  • eXp Realty LLC
  • eXp World Holdings Inc.
  • Hanna Holdings Inc.
  • HomeSmart International LLC
  • Howard Hanna Real Estate Services
  • Real Broker LLC
  • The Real Brokerage Inc.
  • Realty ONE Group Inc.
  • Redfin Corporation
  • United Real Estate
  • Weichert, REALTORS®
All other REALTORS® who are members of NAR on the date of class notice are covered by the release. The date of class notice is anticipated to be in mid-July.
Members on the date of class notice and state/territorial and local REALTOR® associations must abide by the practice changes set forth in the agreement, but they do not need to take any other action in order to benefit from the negotiated release.
The release does not cover brokerage firms with residential transaction volume above $2 billion in 2022, despite NAR’s effort to include them. For those companies, the settlement provides an avenue to pursue inclusion in the release but does not obligate them to do so.

Changing Business Practices

The settlement agreement also mandates two key changes to the way members and MLS participants do business.
  1. NAR agreed to create a new MLS rule prohibiting offers of compensation on the MLS. This would mean that offers of compensation could not be communicated via an MLS, but they could continue to be an option consumers could pursue off-MLS through negotiation and consultation with real estate professionals.
  2. NAR also agreed to create a new rule requiring MLS participants working with buyers to enter into written agreements with their buyers before the buyer tours a home. NAR has long encouraged its members to use written agreements to help consumers understand exactly what services and value they provide, and for how much.
NAR continues to deny any wrongdoing and maintains that cooperative compensation is in the best interest of consumers. NAR members can use these changes as an opportunity to explain their clients’ options. Both changes would go into effect in mid-July under the terms of the proposed settlement.
NAR considered a range of legal options throughout the litigation process, including reaching a settlement or continuing to appeal the Sitzer-Burnett verdict and litigate the related copycat cases. The latter could have forced the association to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, leaving members, associations, MLSs and brokerages exposed.

Resources for Members

NAR is committed to supporting members through these changes. Members can get the facts about the settlement at facts.realtor, which is regularly updated with new information and resources, including FAQs.
For those who want to prepare for the new MLS rule requiring buyer representation agreements, consider taking the Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) designation course(link is external), which NAR is offering to members at no cost through the end of the year.
“NAR exists to serve our members and American consumers, and while the settlement comes at a significant cost, we believe the benefits it will provide to our industry are worth that cost,” NAR President Kevin Sears said in a statement. “NAR is focused firmly on the future and on leading this industry forward. We are committed to innovation and defining the next steps that will allow us to continue providing unmatched value to members and American consumers.
“This will be a time of adjustment, but the fundamentals remain: Buyers and sellers will continue to have many choices when deciding to buy or sell a home, and NAR members will continue to use their skill, care and diligence to protect the interests of their clients.”
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Statement from HAAR on NAR Lawsuits

03/22/2024

The Huntsville Area Association of REALTORS® and ValleyMLS deeply appreciate our members, especially during uncertain times like these. We understand the urgent need for answers regarding NAR’s potential lawsuit settlement. However, as this is an evolving situation, it would be irresponsible for HAAR as an association to speculate or contribute to the spread of misinformation which we have seen in particular from national news outlets and other media that amplify those inaccuracies.
It is important to note that this settlement still requires approval from a judge. This, and other aspects of the settlement process, are being handled at levels beyond north Alabama. HAAR, ValleyMLS, our staff and volunteer leaders are not privy to any discussion or decision related to these lawsuits.
As we all await further developments, the only source for accurate information on this ongoing litigation is FACTS.realtor. NAR’s information hub offers news, talking points, and other resources to keep us informed and aid in communicating effectively with colleagues and clients about this matter.
Get the facts at FACTS.realtor
HAAR’s position has and will always be the same: REALTORS® are crucial to the transaction involving the largest investment most of us will ever make – purchasing a home.
REALTORS® have championed the American Dream of homeownership for more than a century. They have defended Fair Housing for decades. They guided millions of buyers and sellers through the pandemic. The value REALTORS® provide to a transaction goes miles beyond opening a door.
Last year, those who sold a home without a REALTOR® left an average of $95,000 on the table. Entering a real estate transaction without a REALTOR® is like going to trial without an attorney. Not advisable.
Everyone, including HAAR and ValleyMLS, is waiting for real answers. And while we do, it is critical to avoid speculation and misinformation taking over the conversation.
Get the facts at FACTS.realtor
The most responsible action you can take today and every day until concrete answers are released by NAR is to continue to serve your clients, avoid the spread of false information, and focus on showing your value. Now is the time for calm while we allow the process to unfold. We know that’s the most difficult part and we are right here by your side.
In the meantime, it’s important for REALTORS® to continue their service to the public. You have weathered crisis after crisis and you always emerge on the other side, ready again to defend homeownership and private property rights.
Please continue to follow updates on FACTS.realtor. Information released there will also be highlighted at HAAR.realtor and in The Weekly newsletter that hits your inbox every Saturday and Monday at 7 AM.
Thank you for all you do.
Sincerely,

Huntsville Area Association of REALTORS® & ValleyMLS
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ValleyMLS named BEST MLS by WAV Group

02/28/2024

Approximately 250,000 agent and broker MLS subscribers are represented in the industry’s largest measurement of MLS customer satisfaction each year.
Huntsville Area Association of REALTORS® and ValleyMLS.com– February 28, 2024 – Huntsville, AL, ValleyMLS was named a BEST MLS for 2024. The award was presented by WAV Group, the industry’s leading real estate consulting and research firm, conducting their second annual Customer Experience Index (CXI) for MLSs.

 

WAV Group’s Customer Experience Index program scores MLS organizations on seven standardized key performance indicators (KPIs): overall satisfaction, customer service, training, technology, data quality, responsiveness, and business generation. MLSs of various sizes and organizational structures from across the country participate in the program each year. Collecting over 17,000 responses from agents and brokers across the country, the WAV Group Customer Experience Index is the largest industry study on MLS satisfaction.  

 

Marilyn Wilson, CEO and founding partner of WAV Group says “The WAV Group Customer Experience Index is uncovering the key drivers of subscriber satisfaction to make it easier for MLSs to know where to focus their priorities and resources. Most importantly, the localized reports are providing participating MLSs with practical, actionable, and affordable recommendations to improve the relevance and value of their organizations. Some participants are now incentivizing their CEOs and staff based on customer satisfaction improvements. Interestingly, having standardized measurements across multiple markets is helping us recognize patterns of MLS strengths, and opportunities to make the entire MLS industry stronger.” 

 

ValleyMLS was named a BEST MLS in the following categories:
  • BEST MLS Overall
  • BEST MLS Customer Service
  • BEST MLS Data Quality
  • BEST MLS Responsiveness

 

“It’s a moment of pride for ValleyMLS as we celebrate being recognized with a Best MLS Badge by the Wav Group. We’re dedicated to continuously improving our services and providing top-notch support to our valued agents and brokers who subscribe to the MLS. We are honored to play a part in North Alabama residents finding a REALTOR® and finding a home on ValleyMLS.”

Kurtis Krueger, CEO of HAAR & ValleyMLS Tweet
 
Best MLS Methodology
The BEST MLS lists are compiled using local subscriber satisfaction ratings from CXI participants on a scale from 1-10 for each of the seven KPIs. The average scores in each market are combined to set the average rating for the entire program. MLSs with an average KPI score at or above the national average are awarded a BEST MLS badge for that category.   
Learn more about the BEST MLS Badges at https://www.wavgroup.com/best-mls/
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