Family

It certainly has been a year of change and reflection at the Turnham household. Joe, Paula, Abby and Pete Matthew have been very involved in so many activities after Joe´s hard-fought and unsuccessful run for Congress in 1998, he turned his attention in 1999 to unfinished issues he raised from the campaign like fighting for Alabama´s natural resources, water and the environment. Joe became the Founding Director of the Alabama League of Environmental Action Voters or AlaLEAVs in March this year, leaving the family business after 18 years of service. Joe plans to remain active in AlaLEAVs and will move into other areas of business and politics in the year ahead. Stay tuned...

The Turnham family continues to stay active as well. Joe's wife, Paula, continues to operate a small, in-home business - Paula Turnham Interiors Fabrication. She has created and crafted custom interiors and window treatment for several clients. She continues her part time association as a designer for the Closet Factory of Auburn. Paula is also active in the Auburn Women´s Club.

Children, Abby (11) and Pete Matthew (5), are active as well. Abby is entering the 6th grade in Auburn Public Schools, while Matthew starts public kindergarten this year. Both have been active in softball, T-ball, Vacation Bible School, swimming, visiting relatives, and helping mom and dad.

Paula's sons Peter James (PJ) and Michael continue to do well. PJ, 22, has recently completed a two year term in the Army. He served as a Military Policeman stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas. Paula is glad to have PJ and his bride, Sarah, back in Birmingham, Alabama. Sarah is commuting to Tuscaloosa/University of Alabama to complete her master's degree in Criminal Justice. She is also teaching an undergraduate course in Criminal Justice. Michael, 25, is an integral part of his dad's auto parts store and resumes his studies this semester at the University of Alabama.

Joe´s mom and dad, Kay and Pete Turnham, are active as well. Kay, a retired school teacher - volunteers and travels extensively. Retiring after 40 years in the Alabama Legislature, Dean of the Alabama Legislature, Pete Turnham retired from public service but remains active on several boards like the Shocco Springs Baptist Assembly, Southern States Energy Board and remains President of the family's business.

Paula´s mom, Evelyn Smith sold her home and is building a new garden home. She enjoys traveling and her 14 grandchildren.