Great Concerts and Broadway Shows (WITHOUT JET LAG OR ROAD RAGE)
Serving as the center for entertainment in downtown, the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre is large enough for first run Broadway shows, yet intimate enough to view concerts, opera, comedy, dance and children’s shows. In addition to these shows, see a full list of upcoming productions at www.mpaconline.org.
DISNEY LIVE! MICKEY’S MAGIC SHOW DECEMBER 18, 2010 • 3:00PM & 6:00PM Give your kids the perfect early Christmas present. Let them watch as their favorite Disney characters come to life on the MPAC stage! Mickey, Minnie and all of their friends join world-class magicians to put on a show you won’t soon forget.
NBC’S LAST COMIC STANDING FEBRUARY 19, 2011 • 8:00PM NBC’s hit television show “Last Comic Standing” is hitting the road and making its way to MPAC. The top five finalists, including Alabama native Roy Wood Jr. and season winner Felipe Esparza, will be performing their best comedy routines.
TOMMY EMMANUEL FEBRUARY 21, 2011 • 7:30PM Two-time Grammy award winning Tommy Emmanuel is a legendary guitarist with a career spanning for nearly five decades. In Emmanuel’s unique “finger style,” similar in the way a pianist plays a piano, he uses all ten fingers to play the guitar creating a sound unlike any other.
THE FAB FOUR MARCH 19, 2011 • 8:00PM
GREASE APRIL 12 , 2011 • 8:00PM This Broadway musical favorite features songs from the original 1978 film including “Hopelessly Devoted to You” and “You’re the One That I Want.” Don’t miss Danny and Sandy and all of their friends as they take you back to this all-time favorite movie.
THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA PRESENTS “BIG RIVER” APRIL 15, 2011 • 7:30PM The University of Alabama College of Arts & Sciences Department of Theatre & Dance presents “Big River,” a center stage version of Mark Twain’s classic and the adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Follow Huck’s journey and watch your favorite Twain characters come to life.
BLUE MAN GROUP APRIL 25 , 2011 • 7:30PM The wildly popular theatrical group Blue Man Group combines comedy, innovative technology and rocking music to create an entirely unique form of entertainment. People of all ages will enjoy the show that The New York Times calls “one of the most delightful performance pieces ever staged.”
A true blast from the past, The Fab Four will have you wondering if you’ve jumped back in history to when The Beatles reigned supreme. The group’s precision and attention to detail creates an uncanny resemblance to the original, raising them far above any tribute band. Tickets for all events can be purchased at the MPAC Box Office on a walk-up basis only, Ticketmaster.com or by calling 800.277.1700. MPAC members may call 334.481.5100. To rent MPAC for your special event or for membership opportunities please call Natalie Godwin at 481.5136.
12 reply “YES” Styles and Trends to Consider
The Face of Fall
16 singled OUT Friends Interrupted
18 two are BETTER Stocking Up on Love
26 Feature Story:
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Home for the Holidays with Montgomery’s “tWitch”
34 socially SEEN Events planned by RSVP Montgomery
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Riverwalk Wine Festival Riverboat Masquerade
38 Applause & Appraise 40 the LIST A Who’s Who of Young Leaders
50 mommy SAYS SO 52 Look, Listen, Lounge Hot new music, movies, books, places
54 Take 5 Five 5 Things to Buy Used
40 56
56 connections Reasons to Gather
Card Creations
58 Friends, Trends, Odds & Ends 60 Now Hear This
- a look at local sound
Within Reason
52
62 when? what? where? 78 venue 411 80 resource DIRECTORY NOV/DEC 2010 RSVP 9
from the GIRLS
Tis the Season...
We end our 2010 year with our Holiday Issue! During this time of year, we all start making our holiday plans and looking forward to family gatherings. Whether we travel back to our hometowns or we jet off to a beautiful destination, one thing rings true. There’s nothing like being with those you love during special occasions. We are excited to introduce our newest feature “mommy Says So” for all the moms looking for a laugh. For those of you women looking for a little glitz before those holiday parties, check out our holiday makeup in our “reply YES” feature. When you start your shopping this season, be sure to check out the awesome restaurants, bars, salons and boutiques featured in this issue for all your gift-giving needs. Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm for RSVP! Happy Holidays from our family to yours!
The River Region Guide for All Things Social vol. 3, Iss. 6
CAPITAL CLASS As one of the newest additions to downtown Montgomery, the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center brings a sophisticated cultural, culinary and corporate hub to Alabama’s capital city. The European-inspired spa is currently ranked as the top Renaissance spa in North America for guest satisfaction and offers an endless list of services that are guaranteed to relax, rejuvenate and renew. With 346 luxurious rooms and suites, a variety of restaurants and bars, and a 1,800 seat performing arts centre, Renaissance Montgomery is sure to impress.
For more information, please call 334.481.5210 or visit www.renaissancemontgomery.com.
RENAISSANCE MONTGOMERY HOTEL & SPA AT THE CONVENTION CENTER 201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery AL 36104 t:334.532.0700 renaissancemontgomery.com facebook.com/spaatmontgomery Part of the Resort Collection on Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail
reply YES
By: Lindsey Henig
Photography/ Josh Moates/ Kim Box Photography There’s no doubt that fall is one of the most beautiful seasons of the year. Who can resist the cooler weather?! This festive time brings with it quite a bit of change – the leaves, your nail color and your wardrobe. So naturally that blank canvas you’ve been dressing up each morning with light pink shadows and coral blushes calls for a few changes of its own.
If you’re clueless about which shades to stash away for the winter and what should replenish that makeup drawer, look no further. No matter what your hair color or skin tone, we’ve got you covered! MAC cosmetics and Laura Mercier are two of the leading makeup lines on the market today. MAC is typically known for their bright, bold looks and Laura Mercier for her all-natural, blended looks. For the fall and winter, both lines have turned up the heat and have come full speed ahead to make your face bright and beautiful all season long.
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Shea Butler Shea’s look personifies this season’s hottest lip color. Using a mixture of Laura Mercier’s plum wine and hydrangea, Meagan Anderson, a makeup artist for Bella, was able to achieve the perfect shade. “Instead of a classic red lip,” she tells us, “try a fresh new approach this season with a bold fuchsia.” And don’t forget your primer! This helped Shea’s alloy crème eye shadow and orange blossom blush stay in place for hours after the shoot.
Lisa Gleave Lisa’s look showcases the all-natural fresh face we are seeing so much this season. Using Laura Mercier’s bare beige gloss on her lips gave us the opportunity to help her eyes burst with a smokey eye black turquoise pencil liner. Finish this look off with Laura’s coral red blush palette and this is totally chic…and effortless!
Aubrie Lemon Moates Aubrie is shown in some of the MAC Cosmetics “A Tartan Tale” collection (launched October 28). If you are a classic blond-haired Southern beauty like she is, this is a perfect look to complement what you’ve got. The Golden Crown eye shadow balances a light skin tone perfectly, helping to blend out the just flushed pink cheek you see on her. Since the majority of her look is full of earth tones, we wanted to spice it up with the Full Fuchsia lipstick you see perfectly painted on her lips. Talk about a color that POPS!
Tameka Jacobs Tameka’s look features MAC’s “Cham Pale” collection, which is scheduled to launch on December 26, just in time for New Years Eve! Kirk Blouin, a MAC trainer for Georgia, Alabama and the Gulf Coast, told us that, “Skin this fall is all about creamy, luxurious, warm tones,” and Tameka’s look shows you how to pull off just that. The assortment looked perfect on her buttery skin. We used the Vintage Selection paint pot on her eyes and really made them stand out with the Feline Khol power pencil.
Hair/ Bethany Popwell & Christina Wright/ William Mason Salon
The key to polishing off an outfit is always a fresh look of perfectly applied makeup. Take a few of our pointers this season, and put your best face forward! 14
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Set Design/ Evan G Cooper Makeup/ MAC Cosmetics
Kirk Blouin/ MAC Trainer for Georgia, Alabama and Gulf Coast
Travis Holp/ MAC Retail Manager/ Belk Eastdale Mall
Makeup/ Laura Mercier
Meagan Anderson/ Makeup Artist/ Bella
AMP UP YOUR SKINCARE From the Creators of Proactive
Maximize your anti-aging benefits. To address the underlying causes of aging skin, we created the ANTI-AGE Regimen and patent-pending AMP MD™ Maximum Delivery System to work synergistically for maximum anti-aging benefits. Used in combination, they deliver the right ingredients, in the right formulations, in the right order, and in the right way, to truly transform skin.
What can you expect to see? Untouched photos after 8 weeks of use.
Join me every Monday at Sinclairs East for Business Opportunity Luncheon 11:30-12:30pm Lindsey Cross Independent Consultant 334/549-2749 • lindseycross.myrandf.com
To learn more about our clinically proven medically based products, visit lindseycross.myrandf.com To learn how to join my executive team, visit lindseycross.myrandf.biz
NOV/DEC 2010 RSVP 15
singled OUT
Surviving the Shifts of Sisterly Love by: Kim Traff
T
hroughout life, we as women embark on a journey of sisterhood and friendship. Young Girl Scouts in early years learn a catchy song, “Make new friends, but keep the old. One is silver and the other gold.” As adults, we learn the painful fallacy in those lyrics – all allies are not precious and many twists in life find us drifting from those we’ve long called friend. This can especially be true for those who are thrust back into the sorority of ‘single’ after many years of marriage. Lines of loyalty are drawn and while facing the devastation of losing a marriage partner, we also find ourselves in search of a new sisterhood of friends who better understand our place in life. Five years ago, I celebrated my 30th birthday with a satisfying number of wonderful women when I was given a fabulous photo album that contained a short letter from each friend, sharing what our friendship meant to them. It was the most precious gift I have ever received. Although at times I have been called “Kimpossible,” the simple truth is that as the owner of a new business, the mother of two busy, athletic daughters and adjusting to a recent divorce, some of those friendships that I considered indestructible have become difficult to sustain. You would think that as fully vested adults, we would have this thing down, but maybe we never got the message that the role of friend is as important as that of mother, wife, daughter or sister. 16
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After reading numerous reports linking a circle of supportive friends to lowering stress levels, increasing happiness, faster recovery rates for healing and a greater chance of reaching life goals, we have a serious reminder that our friendships are not a nice-to-have, but a necessity!
Friends in Low Places Many women have shared that relationships they once considered unbreakable have become casualties of various life assaults, such as divorce, widowhood, relocation, the empty nest, health problems, betrayal or a simple drifting apart when one friend wants to redefine the relationship and the other doesn’t. Just as getting married can violate the unspoken contract between two friends, so can becoming unmarried. Whether widowed or divorced, it can be very difficult fitting in with those friends who are couples without feeling like the odd man out. I recently read that “the average person now replaces half her friends approximately every seven years.” While that statistic seemed shocking to me, it isn’t always because of a divorce or death. It could be due to a move, a life changing experience, a new hobby or a shift in life focus. However, none of those reasons are a judgment against
us. They are simply stages of life that remind us that while a couple of our friendships might prevail through differences, the truth is that we all need to be constantly replenishing our circle of friends to ensure it is meaningful for who we have become now.
Wishing you a tangle-free holiday.
Will you be my friend? Check yes or no We have this stigma that to admit needing friends might somehow be misinterpreted as saying “no one likes me” or “I have no friends.” It taps into all of our insecurities, fears and any shame we have over any relationship that didn’t last forever. However, women live a long time, and we get to reinvent ourselves, seeking out new experiences every decade. That means we have time to make new friends as old relationships end—but how, exactly, do we look for friends at a stage in life that generally doesn’t include dorms, playgrounds or offices bursting with peers? It’s a given that if you sign up for a new class, volunteer or become involved with a cause, you’ll meet participants who morph into friends because you start with something in common. But it’s also true that being a joiner can frequently leave you with little more than a bunch of meetings on your calendar.
Breck A Honea, Agent 61 Market Place - Atlanta Hwy Montgomery, AL 36117 Bus: 334-272-8423 breck.honea.st1i@statefarm.com
0901020
May all your days be merry and bright. A safe and joyous season to everyone. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®
State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL
Count Me In In today’s world, you can’t talk about connecting with friends without considering the Internet. We tweet. We’re LinkedIn. We reconnect with our best friend from 5th grade on Classmates.com. Consider Facebook, a site with more than 400 million users, the friend with benefits. It seems rather safe, but how do we determine the real friends versus the faux friends? If you are looking to develop new meaningful friendships, consider that it is difficult to handle many more than 100 friends, and you might want to rethink lining up thousands of them on social networks in order to find a few genuine friends. The qualities we look for in a friend may be quite different from what we wanted 15 years ago. As I’ve matured, I realize that what I want in a friend is loyalty and unconditional love, even when we don’t talk all the time, spend tons of time together or see everything eye to eye. Wiser from experience, we have earned the right to be choosy about our friends in order to get the reward of a meaningful friendship. Most agree that the number of their true friends can be counted on one hand. Old friendships may be the priceless scrapbooks of our lives, but new ones are like highly pixilated images, crisply reflecting the women we’ve become. And that, my FRIEND, is a beautiful thing.
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two are BETTER
Stocking up on
By Allison Caldwell
LOVE
…All the stockings were hung by the chimney with
or wife. The first step is to pay close attention to the
care, in hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.
products your spouse uses or by finding new gifts that
We have all heard this many times throughout our life,
would appeal to their interests. Next, make a list and
but sometimes in the hustle and bustle of the Christmas
once you have things in mind, get shopping. If you are
chaos, the mom and dad’s stockings are sometimes
busy, Internet shopping is not cheating so get online
overlooked. Therefore, it is necessary for us to become
and get to clicking. If you have time to actually do
“Santa’s Little Helper” and make sure our significant
the legwork, narrow down the stores you plan to shop.
other’s Christmas stocking is amazing and overflowing
Think outside of the box and stay away from the old
with unexpected surprises. One of the greatest gestures of love is to take the
standards of stocking stuffers such as CD’s, underwear
time and forethought to individualize a gift for your
and make your small packages have a big pay off.
special someone. Create a new tradition in your home
Whether you are looking for your wife or husband, be
by making your spouse’s stocking reveal their most
creative. No one knows your spouse more than you
anticipated part of Christmas morning. By taking the
so take this opportunity to fill a stocking that will knock
time and planning ahead, you will achieve stocking
it out of Santa’s ballpark! Lastly, keep your goodies
stuffer success. It will be worth the effort once you see
stashed away until Christmas morning and use your
the happiness your thoughtfulness brings to the
super elf-like skills to get the gifts in the stocking before
one you love.
your sweetie pie wakes up. After your honey sees the
The options are endless and you do not have to go overboard with the budget while surprising your husband
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and socks. BORING! It is time to retire those traditions
wonderful gifts you have given them, no mistletoe will be required for the rest of the holiday season.
Gift Idea Checklist
for the lady in your life It’s OK to Pout Buxom Lipgloss Buxom lipgloss pLumps up your lips with a gorgeous shine $18 available at Sephora, sephora.com, Ulta and ulta.com
The Bar is Open Dylan’s Candy Bar New York City’s premiere candy store, Dylan’s Candy Bar Assorted Bars 18 pk. $14, dylanscandybar.com
Brace Yourself Bracelets from Pandora Personalized charms that can be mixed and matched to create a beautiful, meaningful gift. Avavilable in sterling silver, 14K gold and Murano glass. Precious and semi-precious gems. Prices vary.Velvet Pumpkin, pandora.com
Cozy Toesies Bath and Body Works Cozy, fluffy socks infused with shea and fragrance $7.50 Also check out the great travel size items $5 each: shower gels, body lotions, bubble bath and fragrance mists. Bath and Body Works, bathandbodyworks.com
U Nailed It OPI Nail Color Starting at $8.99, Burlesque Collection *Tease-y Does It *Ali’s Big Break, Swiss Collection *William Tell Me About OPI *I’m Suzy and I’m a Chocoholic, Available at Ulta, Trade Secret, Eve’s Studio and other fine area salons
See your future through. Your future is what you make of it; and making the right decision in choosing a university to continue your education is paramount in bringing that future to fruition. Troy University’s Montgomery
Cuckoo for Coco Coco Mademosielle Coco Mademoiselle by Chanel, Eau de parfum $80 Eau de toilette spray $65, Available at Belk, Dillard’s and chanel.com
Campus has graduate and undergraduate degree options, with day, evening and weekend classes to accommodate any schedule. Call today and see how TROY can help you! 29 complete evening degrees.
Eye Did It Loreal Color Smokes Shadow Easy four step customized eye shadow set $5.99 (MSRP) Availble at Target, Rite Aid, Walgreens and Wal-Mart
On to the Boys...
A future of opportunities Montgomery Campus | 888-357-8843 | Find us on Facebook
| troy.edu
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photo by: grace photography
www.gracephotographystudio.com
lma
hue inc . 8155 2010 vaughn road . montgomery al . 334.239.8884 . www.huestudioinc.com . m-f 10:30-6:30 sat 10:30-5:00pm 20 studio RSVP NOV/DEC
Gift Idea Checklist
for the man in your life What’s Your Brand Branding Irons Branding irons for the grill celebrating your favorite sports team NCAA, NFL, NBA Team Logos steakbrandingirons.com $29.95 grillingaccessories.com $35.99
Happy Trails to You Robert Trent Jones Experience the best public golf courses on earth (voted by Wall Street Journal) Gift cards available $25, $50 & $100/ Greens fees starting at $45, rtjgolf.com 1-800-949-4444
Gimme a Beat Beats by Dre High performance over-the-ear and in-ear headphones for the ultimate listening experience. Tour- in-ear headphones provide high resolution, control talk capacity & hand calling $189.95 Solo- over-ear high performance headphones $199.95 Best Buy, bestbuy.com, amazon.com, apple.com
Take Me With You iPod Docking Station Memorex portable iPod player/docking station Thin, foldable and lightweight. This is perfect for any guy always on the go. Comes with a travel sleeve. $59.99(MSRP) Best Buy, bestbuy.com
You Drive Me Wild NASCAR Ride Along Experience a NASCAR enthusiast’s dream day come true “Rookie Experience” approx. 8 laps and three hours in a 600 hp NASCAR style stock car. $549 “Ride Alongs” starting at $109/gift cards available drivepetty.com 1-800-237-3889 *valid driver’s license required
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Town building, design, & construction are an evolving process. The Hampstead master plan, features, floor plans, & pricing may change without notice due to a variety of considerations. Any illustrations are artist’s depictions only & may differ from completed improvements. This is not an offer to sell real estate property. Information is correct but not warranted. Void where prohibited by law. Equal Housing Opportunity. Š 2 0 10
Head to The Shoppes at Eastchase for these must have items! FRANCESCA’S
MEN’S WEARHOUSE
Francesca’s trendy selection and great prices allow women to have a closet full of options. It’s getting cooler out there so swing by to find the perfect cover up, like this single breasted, cropped pea coat. Don’t forget about their large selection of jewelry to pair up with any outfit.
New to Eastchase, Men’s Wearhouse offers a dressier look with this brown Marc New York leather jacket. A rugged yet soft cowhide, this 100% leather coat features on seam pockets and a quilted lining making it slightly heavier for added warmth. Its clean lines gives it a formal edge, perfect for an evening out.
WARE JEWELERS
Christmas is coming and who doesn’t love jewelry! Stop by Ware Jewelers to view the exclusive David Yurman collection perfect for any occasion. Featured left: One 10mm sterling cable style bangle bracelet designed by David Yurman from the moonlight ice collection. Featured right: Multiple strand mixed chain sterling and 18ky bracelet designed by David Yurman. This bracelet is quite versatile and can be worn with bracelets from your current jewelry collection.
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Photography by: The Studio at Eastchase
P
roviding high quality pet health and wellness services to assist your pet in living a longer, happier,and healthier life.
24-Hour Hospital Care Daycare & Boarding On-Site Dog Pool Microchipping
Nutritional Counseling Pain Management Dental Care Laster Surgery
with Montgomery’s
“tWitch”
By Amanda Morrison
Breakout Star of So You Think You Can Dance During the holiday season as we celebrate our Creator’s birth, a creatively talented Montgomery native celebrates his birthplace. Stephen “tWitch” Boss is home for the holidays. Dancing on small screens in our living rooms and into our hearts, you may have witnessed him perform for 8 million viewers on Fox Network’s hit competition, So You Think You Can Dance (SYTYCD). Perhaps you enjoyed popcorn, a coke and his third dimensional moves on the big screen in his latest film, Step Up 3D. More simply, maybe you share your high school alumni status with this fellow General. Stephen Boss was the name announced as he marched with the Robert E. Lee Class of 2000 to receive his diploma. Now the pomp and circumstance is over, he is a success as a professional dancer and actor based in Los Angeles, where he is widely referred to as “tWitch”; a nickname describing his banging freestyle with random bursts of energy. So how does one go from a humble Montgomery upbringing to a career in the limelight? For “tWitch” Boss, the answers are found in the groundwork laid as a young boy in Montgomery who took interest in the performing arts.
He remains close to his grandparents who still call our beloved city home. In fact, his favorite holiday meals include the amazing dressing prepared by his grandmother. He fondly recalls Thanksgivings when he and his little brother would try to beat his Uncle Allen to the last portion. This was no easy feat considering the quick footwork of his uncle. “I would watch Uncle Allen freestyle and try to imitate his moves,” Stephen said of his early interest in dance. Family has always centered the wildly talented hip-hop and classically trained dancer and the rearing of this Alabama boy instilled a work ethic that he credits today. “I was taught
early on that anything worth having in life requires work,” explained Boss. However, the festivities of Christmas allowed time for play. Stephen remembered, “My mother Connie would drive us around Bell Road to look at Christmas lights every year. We would listen to Motown’s Christmas with various artists like James Brown and “This Christmas” is still my favorite track. On Christmas Eve we would go to church as a family to St. Bede and then go home and open the gifts in our stockings.”
While he tried sports as a young boy, he never quite latched on and admits it “never clicked”- hard to imagine from a dancer famous for his ability to pop- and- lock. The hot Southern summers presented him the opportunity to turn up the heat onstage. Exploring his passion for live audiences, Stephen attended theatrical camps at Alabama State University. Even though he did not have the training to know how, he just knew he liked to dance and would spend hours watching videos and learning the choreography of M.C. Hammer and Michael Jackson hits. This self teaching also made him aware of a career opportunity when he noticed the same professional dancers performing for multiple artists in several videos. Thanks to his keen eye, this discovery propelled his desire to follow his passion further. As a high school student, Stephen sought the instruction and mentorship of Lee High employee and dance studio owner, Brenda Aitken Rambo. He credits his fundamental dance to the long hours training alongside his friend and Brenda’s daughter, Melissa Aitken Knighton, at Aitken’s Best Performing Arts.
Modern Mod Mo dern L Luxury uxu ux ury Meetss Old W Meet World orld Eleg Elega Elegance... anc ncee...
Where Wher Whe re
485 Taylor Road • 334-386-2655 www.thearborsontaylor.com
Upon high school graduation, Stephen knew he wanted to pursue dance professionally. His grandfather was not sold to this idea. He questioned Stephen’s plan to support his future through dance but they settled to one condition: His grandfather would support his artist’s ambition as long as he pursued a degree in higher education. Boss enrolled at Southern Union Junior College where he met pivotal influence and instructor Sonya Fincher. Pursuing a major in dance performance, he embarked on a rigorous training regimen, intensely learning the styles of ballet, jazz and modern. “I spent my nights practicing. I even had a key to the studio,” he recalls. NOV/DEC 2010 RSVP 27
The 2010 Capital City
Christmas Parade Kick off the Season with the Capital City’s very merry Christmas Parade filled with oh-so-jolly floats and festivities. Celebrate this special season and gather with loved ones for a night that is sure to make all your Christmas dreams come true!
C a p i t a l C i t y C h r i s t m a s Pa r a d e
Friday, December 3, 2010
Parade Route from Capitol Steps to Court Square Fountain
schedule of events
5:15 pm Governor’s Tree Lighting 6:00 pm Capital City Christmas Parade 7:30 pm Mayor’s Tree Lighting
2010 float contest
Create your own Christmas masterpiece and be a part of the festivities. Entry categories include Business Floats, Floats by Adults, and Floats by Children/Youth. Registration deadline is November 29, 2010. Float staging held at Cramton Bowl.
Pa r a d e e n t ry f o r m s at w w w. m o n t g o m e r y a l . g o v F o r m o r e i n f o r m at i o n c o n tact
Carol Gunter, 334-241-2726 or cgunter@montgomeryal.gov
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With his two years at Southern Union coming to a close, the aspiring star dreamed of opportunity beyond our Alabama border. “I was browsing through Dance Spirit Magazine and saw an ad for Chapman University located in Orange County, California,” said tWitch. Smart contemplation allowed him to keep his promise to his grandfather and live out his dream. While remaining enrolled in higher education, Chapman offered an amazing program with close proximity to auditions in Los Angeles.
His west coast relocation allowed him to build relationships with others in the industry and he began to frequent open calls. In 2003, he was a semi-finalist on Star Search and would later be named third-place finisher in the Wade Robison Project. The next defining audition was narrowly missing a Top 20 slot on season three of SYTYCD. Undeterred, he placed his ego aside and bravely asked the judges what improvements to pursue. “Wade told me that I didn’t have to look so mean,” said tWitch. With that, he reviewed film of Gene Kelley and Fred Astaire to study the facial expressions of the classics. Amazingly the following year, though more than tens of thousands auditioned, our comeback kid earned a second- place finish on season four. Now part of the all-star cast of So You Think You Can Dance, he recently wrapped season seven with a routine partnered with Ellen DeGeneres. A shocking surprise for the audience, together they performed a hip-hop number to “Outta Yo Mind” that was both out of this world and highly entertaining. Earlier in the season, he performed a step routine with contestant Kent where local viewers could not help but to pause and wonder if he originally learned those moves from the brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha on the campus of ASU during those summers in his youth. This Montgomery born talent who came into the world at Jackson Hospital continues to excel in this season of his life. His best advice to our aspiring youth is to “be bold and go beyond where you are comfortable.” Always affectionate for Montgomery, his journey carries him far beyond geographical limits, with global aspirations. He is fervent to dream and achieve, making our capital city proud to claim our native son.
reaching
Saint JameS School
higher since1955 Pre-K4 & Kindergarten Open House Sunday, January 23 at 1:30pm Call or email to reserve your spot, admissions@stjweb.org. for pre k3-12th grade admissions info call
334.273.3000
6010 Vaughn Road, Montgomery
■
stjweb.org
English as a second language (ESL) tutoring provided. Saint James School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.
NOV/DEC 2010 RSVP 29
Sugar Booth
Hampstead
NOV/DEC 2010 RSVP 31
It’s the
thought
By: A
man
As we gather with the ones we love this holiday to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas, nothing can eclipse our excitement for dashing to the decorated tree at the crack of dawn to begin the unwrapping. With this year’s release of must-have electronics from Apple, local boutiques filled with chic winter fashions and dozens of cool gadgets on the market, the array of gift possibilities seems endless. But if you’re perplexed with picking the perfect present or have a track record of waiting ‘till Christmas Eve to do your holiday shopping, a few of our readers offered some advice on what NOT to give this year!
A case of holiday déjà vu
“My ex-husband typically gets a gift for our son to give me at Christmas. Two years ago I opened a present and saw a glass Christmas platter that looked suspiciously familiar. I turned the platter over and sure enough, I had my proof that I was VERY familiar with this platter—I received the darn thing as a wedding gift! My ex-husband re-gifted me one of our own wedding gifts! Later that afternoon, when he called to see how I liked the “gift from our son,” I asked him where he got the “lovely platter”? He replied that his wife picked it out at a local jewelry store! When I told him he was busted, he finally confessed that his wife actually re-gifted me the platter from their re-gifting closet. To this day whenever we exchange gifts from our son we have a good laugh at this story.” -Susannah
The clothes don’t always make the woman
“When I was in middle school, my grandparents, who live in Arizona, sent me a sweatshirt with bunnies on it that read, ‘Some bunny in Arizona loves me.’ That promptly got donated.” -Chelsea
A hard-hitting gift
“My ex-husband and I were getting a divorce and I had moved out of our house. So for Christmas he got me a handy dandy tool kit! I should have taken out the hammer and hit him with it!” -anonymous
A disappointing Christmas “box”
“Whenever the XBOX came out, the first one, so many years ago, my little brother wanted one very bad. My family has a tradition where we get to open one present of their choosing on Christmas Eve. The present my parents chose for my little brother to open was, of course, the XBOX so he could play it that night. The present my parents picked out for me to open early was the controllers to the XBOX. Yes, the CONTROLLERS! I felt so unloved because at that point, I didn’t really care about the XBOX! I pitched the biggest fit about my brother being the favorite child! Of course, later my sweet parents let me open another present, one that I actually wanted. But it has always been a big joke because I was so in shock that they did that to me!” -Christina
What goes around comes back around
One Christmas, I received a pair of Chinese Figurines that were about 12 inches tall each from my daughter’s mother-in-law. Keep in mind that I do not collect these or anything. So immediately my daughter said to re-gift! A couple of years later, her husband’s side of the family had everyone draw names for dirty Santa gifts, so my daughter got the figurines and wrapped them for this gift. The family got together for the dirty Santa gathering and guess who ended up with the figurines? If she realized she had given them to me, she never said anything. Moral of the story: if you are going to re-gift, don’t do it in the same family…” -anonymous
da M
cCo y
Pillow talk
My grandmother was an amazing wife, mother and grandmother. She was always known for her strange gifts at Christmas. My older brother and I were always curious about what exactly she was thinking when she put these gifts together. One year, I opened my box and there was a stick of deodorant and a New Kids On The Block pillow case. Only one pillow case and this was 10 years after the New Kids On The Block’s heyday. I always wondered where she even got that pillow case and how long she must’ve had it... but I smiled and gave her a big hug and a kiss. -Patrick
The best things in life aren’t always free “While in college, my boyfriend at the time and I decided to set a $100 limit to our presents for each other since we were both in graduate school. I had hinted that the only gift I really wanted that year was a new watch. I had even pointed out a few cute bangle style watches that were well within the set budget. When we exchanged gifts, I was happy to see a box in the distinct shape of something jewelry and was positive he had picked up on my not-so-subtle hints. When I opened my gift, I was surprised that the watch in the box was nothing like I had hoped. In fact, it was an ugly unisex watch with a gold face and imitation leather bands. Not wanting to hurt his feelings, I pretended to love the gift and wore it every day. A couple of weeks later the watch stopped working. I asked my boyfriend if he still had the receipt so that I could return it. He kept dodging the questions saying he would take care of it. Finally after a little pressing he stated, ‘You know when you order a magazine and it comes with a free gift….’ That’s right; my present was his free gift from ordering Sports Illustrated! That was our last Christmas together.” -Amy Thanks to all of our readers who sent in their stories. We enjoyed reading them!
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Photography by Bill Ingalls
O
n a warm October afternoon, more than 1,000 guests gathered on the Montgomery Riverwalk to sample a surplus of delectable wine at the all-afternoon extravaganza the Riverwalk Wine Festival. RSVP Montgomery teamed up with the City of Montgomery to organize the event, which featured 175 select wines, ranging from the sweetest champagne to the richest red. Each guest received the ultimate wine connoisseur souvenir bag, which included an etched wine glass commemorating the event, a complete wine list and a freshly baked French baguette. An ample selection of mouth-watering hors d’oeuvres were provided by The Chop House at Vintage Year, Carrabba’s Italian Grille, Peppertree Steaks N’ Wines and Derk’s Filet and Vine. Mother Nature may have tricked us with refreshingly cool weather the whole week prior to the festival, and then slapped us with a triple digit temperature on the afternoon of, but she didn’t interfere with us having a fantastic time. When the completion of the event neared, a group of the guests embarked on an early evening cruise when the grand Harriott II called “All Aboard!” It was a remarkable all-day celebration of the unique offerings of our wonderful city.
A special thank you to Troy University for sponsoring the souvenir bags, Alley Station for sponsoring the etched wine glasses and the Renaissance Hotel and Spa at the Convention Center for providing the French baguettes and offering a special room rate of $99. Artist: Carol Barksdale WINE: Alabama Crown, Amizetta Vinyards, Bodega de Mendoza, Global Wines, Grassroots Distributing, Ingenium Wines, International Wines, Johnson Brothers, Lapis Luna Winery, MBC-United Distributing, Ozan Winery, Pinnacle Imports, Rush Wines, The Wine Source
*special thanks to Ken Reynolds, you rock!
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Masquerade
Memorial Cruise
A
group of girls and boys of Trinity Presbyterian School gathered the night of October 16 for an evening masquerade on
the Harriott II to celebrate the life of Hannah Ridling, a classmate taken well before her time.
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Dakin Hill joined RSVP Montgomery last year on the grand riverboat to celebrate her Sweet Sixteen, and came aboard this year accompanied by more than 70 friends to honor their classmate. The masked guests flooded through the three bejeweled levels of the Harriott II, with each level housing a different atmosphere. The bottom level, draped in black and white, held an ample selection of heavy hors d’oeuvres, beverages and decadent chocolate and vanilla cupcakes provided by Cooper Cupcakes. A photo booth, provided by Image Masters, was located on Level II. After the guests smiled and said “Cheese” four times fast, they received square 4-picture strips, similar to those found in the mall or arcades. Both levels I and II presented the University of Alabama football game on plasma TVs, and we were surprisingly able to peel most of the boys away from the game to the rocking third level. This breezy top level saw DJ OZ playing an upbeat selection of modern music while the boys and girls showed us their dancing skills under the starry sky. It was quite an unforgettable night. Generous donations by party guests were given for a memorial to Hannah.
She will
forever be remembered by her friends.
Carmina Burana By: Kristi Gates Photo by: Heath Stone
A true feast for the eyes and ears! That sums up the recent performance of “Carmina Burana” served up at the historic Davis Theatre by the Montgomery Ballet, Montgomery Chorale and Youth Chorale, percussionists from the Montgomery Symphony Orchestra and pianists Robert and Barbara Shinn. The groups collaborated to reinterpret composer Carl Orff’s scenic cantata based on 24 medieval poems encompassing themes such as lust, fortune, gambling and the joys of spring. Right from the start, the performance commanded my attention. Swirls of green, gold, purple and crimson flowed from the dancers’ costumes as they flitted across the stage. The frenetic and athletic, but also graceful and passionate, movement of the dancers, the music and the singing were all together perfectly in unison and on point, ballet pun intended! Solos delivered by two male chorale members resonated throughout the theatre, and Orff’s world-renowned score was brought to life in the capable hands of the musicians. Elie Lazar, artistic director for the Montgomery Ballet, said his mission was to, “Transform people to a world that makes them forget about their problems and burdens and think of the wonder of humanity.” Elie’s mission was certainly accomplished with this viewer as the last thing on my mind was my endless pile of to-do lists. My mind was too occupied with the mesmerizing sights and sounds on stage. “Carmina Burana” is a sure-fire audience pleaser. It reminded me why we should all be proud to have this level of talent right here in Montgomery!
The Dixie Swim Club By Amanda McCoy
The Wetumpka Depot set the scene with “The Dixie Swim Club,” where martinis and girl talk are allowed but boys aren’t. The boisterous comedy centered on five women whose friendship began with swimming competitions in college and outlasts years of divorce, disease, sorrow and even one of the fellow swimmers joining then leaving the convent. The distinctive mix of unreserved women meet at the same beach cottage off the coast of North Carolina every August, where they nurture their timeless friendship – laughing, crying and skinny dipping. Each lady has her niche – there is the work-a-holic attorney Dinah, who lives for closing deals and morning screwdrivers; the deeply-rooted Southerner Vernadette, who swears a home-cooked biscuit can cure even the worst of broken hearts; the nun turned mother turned wife (in that order!) Jeri Neal; the slightly obsessive compulsive Sheree, known for her organization skills and notoriously bad hors d’oeuvres; and lastly, the hilariously vain Lexie, who, after four failed marriages, is still searching for Mr. Right. Bravo to “The Dixie Swim Club” for delivering a vivid example of true friendship, which is sometimes messy and exhausting, but always beautiful.
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By Amanda McCoy • Photography by Josh Moates NOV/DEC 2010 RSVP
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SCOTT BELL For Scott Bell, founder and president of local billboard advertising company Bell Media, entrepreneurship is in his blood. Coming from a family of entrepreneurs, including his father and brother, and obtaining a bachelor’s degree in entrepreneurship from Auburn University has given Scott the guidance and knowledge needed to create a successful company. Despite the many challenges and risks involved in starting a business, Bell Media’s first billboard was constructed only two months after Scott graduated in 2007, and now has more than 225 billboard spaces located throughout Alabama and West Georgia. “The challenge is what makes owning a company so interesting and fulfilling,” says the avid golfer. In efforts to give back to the community that has been responsible for the young entrepreneur’s success, Bell Media has contributed thousands of dollars of free advertising to non-profit organizations this year alone, including the American Red Cross and the Muscular Dystrophy Association. With Scott’s keen sense of business, dedication to superior customer service and support from wife Tiffany, we will only see Bell Media continue to grow and thrive.
REBECCA BAKER For Rebecca Baker, a manager at Aldridge, Borden & Company, educating her clients on the impacts of their financial decisions while dually serving as president of the Montgomery Chapter of Alabama Society of CPA’s and as an account executive of United Way is all in a day’s work. After graduating from the University of Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and obtaining her master’s of business administration from Auburn University at Montgomery, Rebecca began her career with Aldridge, Borden & Company in 2004 after her impressive work as an intern led to her hire. Even though working full time was demanding on her time, Rebecca’s dedication to her profession gave her the motivation to pass the CPA exam in 2006. With all that energy, it’s no wonder the go-getter also teaches a boot camp called Power Hour two mornings a week before work. Rebecca attributes her success in business to the lifelong support from her family and the family-oriented atmosphere of her firm. When she can peel away, Rebecca celebrates her free time on Lake Martin with her husband, Jason and 1-year-old son, Chapman.
TRACY ALLEN WILLIFORD As the event director of Alley Station, Tracy Allen Williford dedicates her days to creating small fairy tales for her clients. After graduating from Birmingham Southern College with a bachelor’s degree in Art, the certified interior decorator spent two years at the Renaissance Hotel perfecting her craft. After being introduced into the bustling world of event planning and soaking up as much knowledge as she could, Tracy began her own path at Alley Station. The closet photographer is passionate about giving each client personal, exclusive attention, in turn making their event an illustrious success. Although event planning is quite a wearing profession, the time and effort is all made worth it when Tracy sees “the excitement on a new bride’s face and the relief on an event planner’s face when the event blows everyone out of the water,” says the proud mother of 20-month-old Avery. With the impressive clientele of Alley Station, it’s a good thing this weekend waterhole fisher enjoys planning parties! 42
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the LIST
NOV/DEC 2010 RSVP 43
the LIST
ANGIE SWEATMAN In early 2000, Angie (Bolin) Sweatman moved back to Alabama with her sons, Brannon and Christian, to be close to her family after spending almost 10 years living in Georgia, Texas, Connecticut and Massachusetts. Currently the vice president of Alabama Small Business Capital, the newlywed grew up in Montgomery and that is where she met and married husband John Sweatman. Upon re-entering the workforce in Montgomery around August 2000, Angie didn’t let the intimidation of a decade at home raising her sons slow her down. Armed with a bachelor’s degree in Finance from Samford University, she has been making a name for herself in the banking industry and commercial lending field. Working with the SBA 504 Loan Program for more than 12 years, Angie helps small business owners by assisting in their financing needs on a daily basis. “It is very rewarding having a hand in making business owners dreams a reality, funding real estate and long life equipment purchases under the SBA 504 Loan Program,” commented Angie. Known to her friends as the life of the party, Angie is delighted to be back surrounded by what she calls life’s real treasure, her family and friends.
BRECK HONEA After growing up, going to college and owning a nursery in Mississippi, Breck Honea left everything he knew behind to take a leap of faith in Montgomery as an insurance agent for State Farm. With his track record of being a top producing agent and being qualified for the Elite Ambassador Travel every year, we agree that our city is lucky to have him! His risk paid off as the community has placed their confidence in him to aid in their financial planning for families and businesses throughout the River Region. The former finance major finds joy in the ability to help his clients not only realize their dreams, but execute a plan to get them there. The honors graduate is not just brains, as he played in the Jr. College World Series his sophomore year, where his team placed third in the nation. After retiring his bat, Breck enjoys spending his free time landscaping and making memories with his new bride, Carolyn.
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JACOB ANDREW COOK The born and raised Montgomery native Jacob Andrew Cook, a junior consultant with the Auburn Montgomery Center for Government, actively advocates for the improvement of the hometown he loves. After dabbling in landscape architecture, this public servant graduated from Auburn University in 2007 with a bachelor’s degree in political science. He then served two years as a research assistant with the center while simultaneously completing the coursework for his master’s degree in international relations at AUM. Upon obtaining his current position, Jacob recently teamed up with the Alabama Department of Homeland Security and the Alabama Department of Education to advance the safety mechanisms of our school campuses should a natural or man-made disaster strike. Even though he stays busy with his contributions to the United Way, EMERGE Torchbearers and the Air Force’s Air Command and Staff College, the former college guitar player still manages some downtime. When he’s not fishing or working on his boat, you can catch a glimpse of Jacob plucking the strings of his old guitar some weekends up the road in Auburn.
LINDSEY REED Paint brush in hand, artist Lindsey Reed is doing her part to make Montgomery a more beautiful place with her elegant art collections. The former interior design student moved from Memphis to Montgomery with husband Carter in 2004, where her friends, after seeing her talented work, encouraged Lindsey to have an art show. After bustling for two weeks to put everything in order, the show was a smashing success. Various locations throughout the city agreed to sell her work, and before long Lindsey was getting orders faster than she could fill. And as they say, the rest is history. With her business taking off, Lindsey has the opportunity to spread her faith through her vibrant paintings of rugged crosses, angels, ocean scenes and more. Although she finds joy in her art, Lindsey’s business also allows her the time to soar in her true passion, being a mother. To catch a peak at her work, check out www.lindseyreeddesigns.com.
the LIST
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LASHUNDA LEWIS With a background of serving 20 years in the United States Air Force, LaShunda Lewis is a true beacon of humility and patriotism. Currently an instructor at the Defense Financial Management and Comptroller School, Eaker Center, Maxwell Air Force Base, the admitted thrill seeker is delighted to have a hand in increasing the knowledge levels of her students. As someone that actually enjoys public speaking (humorously said to be more feared than death), it’s no wonder that LaShunda also passionately loves to teach. “I wake up every morning looking forward to what the day holds and the lives I may touch,” says the frequent traveler. Although she still considers herself a “work in progress,” LaShunda has undoubtedly proven herself through her years of service to our country and her dedication to her education. A self-described lifelong learner, LaShunda is currently pursuing her doctoral degree in business administration from the University of Phoenix. From what we’ve seen, it’s safe to say that her journey is far from over!
JB EDWARDS Whether it be painting, sketching or sculpting, every artist has their specialty, and that of JB Edwards lies in his vision of landscape design. After studying computer information science at Auburn University, JB mastered his form of outdoor art at Ashworth College, where he studied landscape design. Upon graduation, JB overcame the threat of a slumping economy and limited advertising and launched his own landscape design, consult and contracting business, Curb Appeal Landscapes, that has seen continued success throughout the River Region. The proud father of two girls is thrilled to have the opportunity to transform his clients’ outdoor spaces into picturesque scenes and admits that his stirring success is in large part due to his loyal clients. His green thumb has even been spotted nationally as he had a hand in the landscaping of the Montgomery household that was featured on Extreme Home Makeover in 2009. The landscape artist is also obsessed with anything water, whether he’s installing a water feature or simply fishing or skiing with his wife, Lucie, and daughters.
ADAM BAGNI Adam Bagni, the professional envy of every local sports fanatic, has been chasing his dream for as long as he can remember. Now the sports director of ABC 32 WNCF-TV, the graduate of La Salle University has come a long way from first telling his parents, “I want to get paid to talk about sports on TV.” A native of Taunton, Massachusetts, Adam has called Montgomery home since February 2008, where he has contributed to the community by not only keeping us updated on the world of sports, but also coaching an under 10 YMCA soccer team and speaking to communication students at the University of Alabama. His extroverted personality has served him well in his career, as he’s had to conquer the dozens of obstacles that arise in TV media, including the overwhelming competition, low paying beginning jobs and working nearly every Thanksgiving and Christmas. But the support of his family and his personal perseverance pushed Adam to achieve. “Believing in your gifts and a strong support system can help push you through. You just have to have faith.”
NOV/DEC 2010 RSVP 47
IN motion
Mom’s Magical
Moments
Ever since I had children, my running has never been the same. Let’s face it – I haven’t been running, and there are many reasons for that. I never felt like I had the time, endurance or strength. The truth is, I am goal oriented and needed some sort of motivation to get me back into my running shoes.
Fifteen years ago, I ran the Walt Disney World Marathon in Orlando, Florida, with my best friend. We had always wanted to run a marathon and chose this race because the weather was usually warm in January and the race course was relatively flat. Plus, it was Disney World! We had both grown up going to Disney and were ready to get back. We were in shape, single and carefree. We thought we could do anything. We embraced the Disney marathon experience, complete with matching Mickey T-shirts and a youthful vengeance. The morning of the race, we hopped on the Disney shuttle, bagel in one hand and Coke in the other, ready to conquer. She and I stayed together the whole time during the marathon. When one of us wanted to walk, we encouraged each other not to give up. We ultimately and tearfully finished the race hand in hand and received our Mickey Mouse medals at the same time. It was a magical moment.
By: Ashley Parker
Remembering how rewarding the experience was, I decided to register for the Walt Disney World Half-Marathon in January 2010 – not as tough as a marathon but still challenging. My husband and another couple signed up as well. We could get in shape while planning a fun family getaway at Disney World. What could be better? The training this time was harder to squeeze in between a full-time job and juggling three active kids’ schedules. I quickly began to realize that my priorities were not the only things that have changed (my body included). Nevertheless, I had to get in my miles the best I could by running on the treadmill late at night or early morning. The weeks and countless miles flew by, and before I knew it, January was here. As I drove through the Walt Disney World gate with my family, butterflies fluttered throughout my stomach and I began to question my sanity. Not to mention the temperatures were forecasted to be below freezing the morning of the race with a chance of sleet. That was not good for a cold natured, non-morning person. Saturday morning, the day of the race, came early. As I woke up at 3 a.m., with my family fast asleep and the dreaded cold and sleet waiting for me, I tried not to let these factors deter
“We could get in shape while planning a fun family getaway at Disney World. What could be better?”
me. Although any one of them would be a good excuse not to run any day. Nevertheless, I tied my shoes, zipped my jacket, grabbed my husband and friends and headed to the race. As I arrived, it started to sleet – so out came the Mickey ponchos! After we walked silently to the starting line, trying to stay warm, we got a wonderful Disney greeting from a cast member announcing, “Welcome to Disney Alaska!” That changed the mood and the entire crowd began to laugh. It was crazy, cold and nutty but here we were at the world’s most magical place with thousands of other runners from around the world, all ages, shapes and sizes. We had all worked for this and were ready to “do this thing!” I even managed a smile on my frozen face. It was 6 a.m. and time for the race to begin. As the fireworks exploded over head, the enthusiasm of the other runners chased my chills away. Besides, the hand warmers and foot warmers were finally starting to kick in. Donald, Mickey, Minnie and Goofy, dressed in matching warm-up suits, danced and cheered for us as we crossed the starting line. Now all we had to do was finish. The miles came surprisingly quick. Before I knew it, I was on Main Street U.S.A. There was so much going on – bands, cheerleaders, spectators, characters (I don’t just mean the Disney characters) lining the streets. I felt like I was in a Disney parade. As I ran through Tomorrowland and Fantasyland, knowing that I would later be there drinking hot chocolate with my family gave me an extra boost of adrenaline. I snapped some pictures and was ready to finish this race. Heading toward Epcot, the memories of the Magic Kingdom carried me through the next five miles. My husband and I talked and laughed at all the things we saw. Next thing we knew, Epcot was on the horizon and we were getting close. As I tearfully crossed the finish line, this time hand in hand with my husband, I saw, among the hundreds of Disney fans, my beautiful (but seemingly frozen) children cheering me on. Knowing they could easily have stayed in their warm beds made it even more special. I showed them my Donald Duck medal and I could see the pride in their eyes. It was yet another magical Disney moment. What other place in the world could this mom of three have accomplished so much in such an enchanting setting as we did this on special January day at Walt Disney World.
Mommy SAYS SO
The Chronicles of the Modern Mom By Amanda Zaremba
About the author My name is Amanda and my last name (the married one) is hardly pronounceable. My offspring, both male, are the joy of my life and have their sticky peanut butter names imprinted on every single (way too early) gray hair on my wellmaintained head. I find the wonderful (and unfortunately sometimes, the worst) parts of me in the hearts and minds of my children. What I hope to share with you in the coming months are things I’ve learned, my version of the lesson in all this, and what seems to be the binding element between us all. I share these things, and we laugh or cry or nod because they aren’t just my stories – they are ours.
PICTURE THIS You couldn’t have paid me enough to believe had you said a year ago that I’d be the mom that forgot picture day. The one who sent their kid to school in a “play shirt” and the bad jeans with second day hair and dirt under their nails. Last year, I was picking out a shirt three days before and shopping for the better pair of khakis the night of because I didn’t like the way the ones we owned fit. And you can’t even SEE below the waist in those pictures. Of course, Conner (my 5-year-old) also received standard pre-picture day treatments – like a bath, some shampoo and a nail clipping session (I don’t know why nail clipping falls here, but it does for me). I’d make extra certain to wipe the sleep from his eyes and brush his hair with a comb in the morning. But at some point, things change. Life gets in your way of living, and you become the mom that doesn’t remember a thing – picture day included. “The guy taking my picture called me Luke. Isn’t that silly?” said Conner as he climbed into my car after school. I was a little taken aback, so I turned around and responded, “A guy took your picture?” Then it hit me – it was picture day. I do a quick up and down of him and find no less than 15 appearance errors. “Luke” (of the Skywalker variety) is in his Star Wars tee that’s a size too small and his play jeans that he wore earlier that week as well. He didn’t bathe the night before, so his hair was messy and not quite combed either. He had a smidge of red jelly on his jaw line. The semi-black eye from his brother nailing him with a doorknob was still visible. His nails were disgusting. I managed to not only send him to school this way, but now I would have photographic evidence of such. Great. The thing is, though, it’s OK. Conner picked out that shirt (his favorite) and pants that morning in a rare move for him. I’m actually convinced he remembered it was picture day and decided that he wanted to wear his favorite shirt, no matter the size. There’s no need to have a total meltdown over a stupid picture day. Yes, having years and years of documentation that your child can actually be wrangled into a tub and a collared shirt are lovely, but I’ll always have this picture of Conner in his true form - messy and all mine.
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You’ll thank yourself when you allow us to prepare the centerpiece of your holiday meal. Plus we have the most delicious side dishes, desserts and wine pairings to impress the most particular relatives.
Whole Turkeys and Hams for the Holidays
PepperTree Shopping Center 8101 A Vaughn Road | Montgomery
334.271.6328 | www.steaksnwines.com
By Blue Sullivan When you work in an office populated by beautiful, intelligent young women, it is foolish not to take advantage of their unique perspectives. Thus the latest edition of your Triple-L is an example in welcoming democracy, as I tap the tastes of the ladies of RSVP to highlight some choice bits of television, literature and music. As football season becomes a gauntlet of pressure-filled contests, we proudly offer you the following respites of cultural tranquility.
LISTEN: Pretty Lights Another excellent recommendation from our ladies is this Colorado electronic duo. Deriving their name from a Pink Floyd concert poster (“Come and enjoy the pretty lights with Pink Floyd!”), the band specializes in a sultry sound that is equal parts electro, hip hop, funk and soul. Check out songs from their most recent album, “Spilling Over Every Side,” at their website: www.prettylightsmusic.com.
READ: Stieg Larsson: “Millennium Trilogy” “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo”/“The Girl Who Played with Fire”/“The Girl Who Kicked the Hornets’ Nest” This searing series of books, which have yielded two great Swedish movies so far, concerns a brilliant but haunted girl in her 20s who unearths corporate and political scandal that places her life in mortal danger. Assisting her in this fearsome gambit is a celebrated journalist who shares a similarly dark history as the heroine. This “Millennium Trilogy” (as the author has referred to it) is also being made into a series of American movies as well, with heralded director David Fincher (“The Social Network”) at the helm.
LOOK: “Cougar Town” TV series, ABC Credit for unearthing this great series comes from the lovely Chandler in our office. Coming fully into its own in its current second season, “Cougar Town” follows the exploits of a recent divorcee, played by Courtney Cox (of “Friends” fame), as she shakily ventures back into the dating scene. In the first season, she found herself dating a litany of younger men (thus making her the “cougar” of the show’s title). More recent episodes find her dating men closer to her age. Every episode is a microcosm of modern dating and relationship foibles, made hilariously real by the show’s creators. Those new to the show can catch up by watching free episodes at ABC.go.com/CougarTown.
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5 THINGS TO BUY USED By Amanda McCoy
The truth is, when it comes to mattresses and underwear, you never want to opt for used digs. But the trick is to remember that new doesn’t always equal gold. If you only whip out the credit card for the used version of the following items, you’ll surely be left shopper’s remorse-less.
Rolexes
Found at Charlotte’s Jewelry Let’s face it, jazzing up your arm with a Rolex watch is making a statement, but it’s one that will ferociously dig at your wallet. But thanks to Charlotte’s Jewelry, you don’t have to max out your credit card to purchase the luxurious arm candy. They offer an ample selection of used Rolexes at a slashed cost.
Cars
Found at Reed Ingram Motors A spanking new car fresh out of manufacturing can be tempting, but the reality is that once you make the purchase, its selling value plummets. Don’t let the new car smell lure you in. You can still find a 1 or 2-year-old car in mint condition for a fraction of the original price.
Pets
Found at Montgomery Humane Society There are many upsides to purchasing a previously owned pet. For one, those precious pet store pups usually won’t sell for anything less than highway robbery. The Montgomery Humane Society pets are already conveniently spayed/neutered, potty trained and not to mention you are giving the furball a good home.
Books
Found at The Book Seller If you’re looking to enter the majestic world created by J.K. Rowling or craving chill bumps from Stephen King, always search for that used price sticker. The college students who hunt used textbooks have it right. The twists and turns are just as whirly in a used book.
Antique Furniture
Found at Montgomery Antique Galleries The misconception is that you have to be a bona fide antique furniture collector to put a beautiful antique piece in your home. Adding an aged chest or vanity can give your space a newfound sense of elegance.
Call us for
HERE’S TO A
SMOKIN’ HOLIDAY
catering your next
crowd, celebration, or company Party for the holidays For 3 to 3,000, we’ll do the grilling & deliver. Delicious! For a limited time, we’re offering whole smoked turkeys for your Holiday entertaining or just to feed your crowd. And don’t forget our famous sides.
THIS SEASON LET US PUT THE GOBBLE IN YOUR
TURKEY!
Visit
dreamlandbbq.com for our local menu.
‘TIS THE SEASON The holidays are meant to be a time to enjoy those around you. This year, start a new tradition and let go of all the stress that comes with planning holiday parties. The Montgomery Marriott Prattville Hotel & Conference Center at Capitol Hill is prepared to take care of your every detail and request. With multiple indoor and outdoor venues, a professionally trained staff and festive décor, the Marriott at Capitol Hill promises to deliver a unique and memorable event.
MONTGOMERY MARRIOTT PRATTVILLE HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER AT CAPITOL HILL 2500 Legends Circle, Prattville, AL 36006 Phone 334.290.1235, marriottcapitolhill.com Part of Alabama’s Resort Collection on The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail
PCH1053MarriottPrattville_RSVP.indd 1
10/19/10 3:02 PM
Card s n o i t a e r C cCoy
By: Amanda M
are a Christmas cards allmark perfect way to h y the year and sta e connected to th ones you love Classic family photo on custom vintage style card by Nikki P. Photograp hy
In a perfect world, we would be able to assemble with all of our loved ones to celebrate the holidays while hanging stockings and humming carols. But the reality is that with the high demands of our jobs and traveling difficulties, we sometimes end up only managing a mere “Merry Christmas” phone call rather than having everyone together to roast chestnuts upon an open fire. And as the years pass, it only becomes more and more difficult to stay in touch with those dear to us. Instead of the usual mass ‘happy holidays’ e-mail this year, try a fun and more personal way to stay connected to your college roommates, second cousins, former co-workers and family members that you aren’t able to visit this year with homemade Christmas cards.
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Say “Cheese!” After you’ve wrestled the kids into matching sweaters, get a holiday picture made at a local department store or take advantage of the city’s many exceptionally talented photographers. If you don’t want to make the trip, grab your camera a snap a picture by your Christmas tree. Tip: Make them laugh! Include the family pets decked out in Christmas attire, have dad dressed as Santa and the rest of the clan as his elves or get creative and Photoshop in Clark Griswold or the Grinch as a member of the family – the possibilities are endless.
Challenge your artistic side Now that you’ve tackled the most important element – the family picture – it’s time to have some fun! We all remember arts and crafts as kids, and now we have an excuse to make a mess on the living room floor with arts and crafts time with your family. Stop by a local crafts supply store (such as Michael’s) for all the necessities. Tip: If you lack the artistic gene and aren’t up for making the card yourself, try vistaprint.com. In three easy steps you’ll have a professional quality card that only looks expensive.With homemade Christmas cards, not only are you giving your love to those you hold dear, but also celebrating this moment in time with your family. And that you will cherish forever.
NOV/DEC 2010 RSVP 57
MDA Fundraiser
Emi-Jay Hair Ties and Headbands If you’re prone to pulling your hair out of your face at various times of the day, avoid the consequential hair “bump” with Emi-Jay hair ties and headbands. When you are ready to let down your locks, the multipurpose ribbon bands serve as trendy bracelets and your hair is left bump-free. Created by a pair of L.A. teens, the innovative hair bands are available in a variety of vibrant colors and have been spotted on the wrists and in the hair of celebrities such as Sarah Jessica Parker and Jennifer Anniston. The young entrepreneurs are also philanthropists, as a portion of the proceeds are donated to charities including Locks of Love. Visit www. emi-jay.com for more information.
The Muscular Dystrophy Association rallied up and “locked up” a group of local business leaders at Alley Station on September 22 to raise money for children with neuromuscular disease. In order to end their arrest, the candidates raised their bail, which was set at sending four kids to MDA summer camp. The guests were refreshed with fresh barbecue from Dreamland BBQ and ice cream from Blue Bell (definitely not your typical jailhouse cuisine!). A couple of the “cuffed” participants included Chief Miford Jordan of the Montgomery Fire Department and Janna Davenport of BB&T.
photography by: Bill Ingalls
Wilson Price Connections Wilson Price kicked off its 2010-2011 program Connections on September 29 with a networking luncheon for local female business professionals at 129 Coosa Street. Following the theme “Grow 2 Lead: The Women of Today and Tomorrow,” the program will celebrate leadership with a series of luncheons throughout the year and ending with the highly anticipated fundraiser Flip Flop Friday, scheduled for May 2011.
The elegant china of The Dish Ltd., famous in cities such as Chicago and Atlanta, is making its Montgomery debut at Hue Studio this holiday. The chic collection includes a white porcelain square platter, ornament and thermal coffee mug, all illustrated with Montgomery landmarks. With The Dish, you can give someone special a unique Christmas gift that celebrates our capital city. Available at Hue Studio, located on Vaughn Road.
photography by: The Studio at Eastchase
Merrie Mimics Ball Merrie Mimics celebrated a “Simply Southern” evening with its 57th annual ball at the Montgomery Country Club on Saturday, September 18. Merrie Mimics is one of the oldest Women’s Mystic Organizations in Montgomery, and each year signifies the beginning of the ball season. The Belle of the Ball, the 2010 queen of Merrie Mimics, entered the ball in a stunning rich white satin gown adorned with Swarovski crystal accents. The band, Meet the Next, continued to entertain the guests until midnight. Following the ball, the 2010 Merrie Mimics queen and her invited guests were chauffeured to AlleyBAR by the AlleyBAR bus and were treated to a breakfast given in her honor by Frank and Charlotte Evans. At the conclusion of all of the revelry, the queen and her special guests enjoyed a stay at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel and Spa at the Convention Center in downtown Montgomery.
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- a look at local sound
F
Within Reason
or Birmingham rock band Within Reason, the road to breakout success hasn’t always been easy, but the band’s commitment to both their songwriting and live shows is paying off in a big way. Within Reason first released an EP at the end of 2006, titled “Cycle a Smile.” Within months after its release, Within Reason earned exposure to four million potential new fans after their song “Hold” won an online vote, resulting in the band playing live in an episode of the primetime series “One Tree Hill.” It was an auspicious beginning for a band with only eight songs in their entire recorded catalogue. The successes didn’t end there. In 2008, Within Reason was named “Rock Band of the Year” and “Performer of the Year” at the BAMA Music Awards. In spring 2009, the band received even more accolades, winning the Tennessee Concerts Talent Competition. Beyond the awards, the band has enjoyed invaluable exposure by playing live with world famous acts like Hinder, Chevelle, Saliva, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, Plain White T’s, The Ataris and Blues Traveler. RSVP spoke to the band’s vocalist, Chris Dow, about the band’s origins and what we might expect in Within Reason’s promising future.
RSVP: What about you personally? When did you decide to become a musician?
Chris: I started playing guitar when I was 14 years old, and I’ve always
loved music above all things. From when I was a kid ‘till now, my favorite thing has always been to go see concerts. I made all my money throughout college by playing acoustic guitar and singing at bars, but it wasn’t until after college that I started to write music for the first time in my life.
RSVP: Who do consider your primary musical influences?
Chris: As a kid, I really grew up on The Doors, Pink Floyd, Led Zeplin and Jimi Hendrix. As the early 90s Seattle grunge scene came out, I really started getting into bands like Pearl Jam, Stone Temple Pilots, Soundgarden and Alice in Chains. I feel that those bands in particular are responsible for shaping rock music as it is today. Some of my favorites today are Mike Shinoda, M.Shadows and Adam Gontier. Unlike most of the world, I despise the Beatles. Their music makes my skin crawl. You can call me crazy, but I still think the king is Michael Jackson.
RSVP: What current artists influence you?
Chris: As a writer, I have to constantly listen to new stuff for fresh ideas
for writing purposes, but some of my favorites are Linkin Park, Avenged Sevenfold, Seether and Eminem.
RSVP: What’s on your iPod right now?
Chris: Although I’m in a rock band, I listen to a little of everything. I
RSVP: Tell us about how the band came together…
Chris: Our bass player, David Koonce, and I went to the University
of Alabama together. After college, I was introduced to our drummer, Griffin, by a mutual friend, and he and I were the first two to start Within Reason. Griff played baseball at the University of Alabama at Birmingham as well as our guitar player, Mook. Together the four of us became the founding guys of Within Reason.
have the new Eminem and the new Jay-Z albums on my iPod right now.
RSVP: What artists outside of music—like books, film, visual arts, etc—have influenced your work? Chris: I do not like to read. It’s completely boring to me. I’m an
extremely social animal, so I’m not one to sit still long. You’ll never see me kick back with a book or a puzzle. I enjoy watching movies, comedies to be specific, like Wedding Crashers and The Hangover.
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RSVP: Tell us about your songwriting process…
Chris: I try to come up with melody first for a
song, and most of my music is driven off of hooks for a chorus, because I think without a hook, you don’t have anything. So I try to come up with these ideas, and I’ll record them first, and then I’ll go and sit down with a guitar and piece the music together. After the melody comes together, I’ll come up with an idea to write about and always do lyrics last.
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RSVP: How does touring/live performance influence your songwriting?
Chris: Playing live and touring gives us an
immediate reaction from fans and from new faces, so we can see what’s going to work and what isn’t. It’s like practice for the band every night, because often songs will mold and shape themselves in a live show before you go to record them in the studio.
RSVP: What has been your favorite live experience?
Chris: Everyday in this business is an adventure
and the most exciting thing to me is that we get to share the stage with a lot of bands that I’ve grown up listening to and who have influenced the music I write. I can’t think of one particular show to be the best, but I enjoy playing the big festivals the most because it’s the time when most great bands are playing and usually just turns into to a huge party afterward. I would say Rocklahoma stands out the most right now… (laughs)
RSVP: Where can we find Within Reason’s music?
Chris: Our most recent record, “Bloodshot Life,” is available on iTunes, and hard copies can be bought on our website: WithinReasonMusic. com. We really encourage everyone to add us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/pages/WithinReason/24047196764) and follow us on Twitter (twitter.com/within__reason) so we can interact with our fans daily on a personal level. Without fans, bands don’t exist, so we appreciate everyone for helping us live our dream.
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Chris: Yeah, I’m constantly writing new music and I’m currently about halfway through with a new record. I think it’s important to deliver new music to your fan base as often as possible to keep things fresh and new, and we will be going in to record these new tracks to release to our fan base through Facebook, Myspace, etc. before the new year. I’m also excited to release some of this new material, because the band has taken a slightly new direction as far as style goes, and hopefully these new tracks will give our fans enough to anxiously anticipate the release of the new record.
RSVP: Are you guys working on anything new?
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when? what? where? h o l i d ay e v e n t s
November Nov 3-7-Christmas Village Special Times vary. BJCC Arena, Birmingham. The largest indoor arts, crafts and gifts show in the South. A shopper’s delight! More than 700 booths of clothing, jewelry, food, decorations and much more. Admission charged. 205.836.7178 www.christmasvillagefestival.com Nov 4-A Salute to Our Nation’s Veterans Concert 7 P.M. The Davis Theatre for Performing Arts. Join the Troy Symphony Band and Conductor Ralph Ford for a stirring tribute to our armed forces with an evening filled with music that includes classic overtures, works by American composers, great marches, patriotic music and a special premiere of a commissioned work. Admission charged. 334.241.9567 www.montgomery.troy.edu/davistheatre Nov 5-6-Mistletoe Market 9 A.M.-8 P.M. Doster Memorial Community Center, Prattville. Come join in Prattville’s historic downtown for the 2010 Mistletoe Market to get your early start on Christmas shopping deals and specials. There will be more than 30 participating vendors and booths to choose from, as well as goodies and treats to help jump start your holiday festivities. Don’t miss this chance to begin your Christmas shopping! Ticket prices vary. www.visithistoricprattville. com Nov 5-7-Christmas Open House: Southern Homes
& Gardens
Have yourself a merry little Christmas party at Alley Station ! Enjoy mild Alabama evenings on the Rooftop Terrace, close enough to reach up and touch Santa’s sleigh. Or bring it indoors where the gorgeous new Ballroom is ready for small, intimate gatherings or all-out holiday bashes—up to 700 people. Beautiful Rooftop Terrace (Seats up to 350)
Stunning Ballroom (Seats up to 350) Freedom in choosing your own vendors Expert help throughout planning process
334 277 1077
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Times vary. Southern Homes & Gardens, both locations. Shop the River Region’s premier Christmas store and save on hundreds of items including: ornaments, décor, life-like Christmas trees, wreaths, garlands, ribbon, gifts and more! Free admission. 334.277.6746 www.southernhomesandgardens.com Nov 6- 2010 Pike Road Fair 9 A.M.-4 P.M. Marks House, Pike Road. Come out for a day of fun in the country with more than 250 arts and crafts vendors, homemade sweets, plenty of barbeque, other food and shopping. There are also special activities for the children too, including face painting, a tour of the Pike Road Fire Department’s Mobile Fire Safety House and free “make and take” crafts will be provided by the Home Depot. 334.277.2326 www.pikeroadfair.org Nov 6-Southern Homes & Gardens Fall Farmers Market
Times vary. Southern Homes & Gardens, Vaughn Road. Shop locally grown seasonal produce, organic items and more from the area’s most beloved Farmers Market favorites! Free admission. 334.387.0440 www.southernhomesandgardens.com Nov 6-Vulcan 10K Run Times vary. Boutwell Auditorium, Birmingham. Come and participate in the Vulcan 10K run, which is the 35th running of the event, the longest running race in Birmingham’s history. The 1 mile fun run is for all ages and perfect for beginner runners and children. www.vulcanrun.com
when? what? where? Nov 7 -Blues Cruise 5:30-8 P.M. Harriott II Riverboat. The Harriott II has the ideal solution to the Sunday night blues with a cruise featuring the area’s best blues and jazz musicians. Admission charged. For more information visit www.funontheriver.com Nov 8-Fiddler on the Roof 7:30 P.M. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Broadway in Montgomery presents “Fiddler on the Roof,” a timeless classic of American musical theatre. Ticket prices vary. www.mpaconline.org Nov 10-MACC 60 Minute Coffee 8 A.M. Sponsored by St. James High School. This monthly event is the perfect way to begin your day. Meet potential clients, make important contacts and network. For more information contact Lynn Norton 334.240.9431 www.montgomerychamber.com Nov 10-Special Spirits at the AlleyBAR 6-8 P.M. AlleyBAR. Wine and high gravity beer tasting donation party. Purchased special spirits will be donated to the American Cancer Society and will be auctioned off at Vintage Affair next February. $15 entry fee. www.alleybarmontgomery.com Nov 11-Jan
Reflections
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Welty,
Exposures
and
Times vary. Troy University Rosa Parks Museum. Traveling along the Southern Literary Trail through Autumn 2011, Eudora Welty, Exposures and Reflections leads audiences on a unique journey to another time and another place with 40 of her photographs, while providing a contemporary look into Welty’s life as writer and Southerner. 334.241.8661 www.montgomery.troy.edu Nov 13-Saturday Sun Setter Cruise 4:30-6:30 P.M. Harriott II Riverboat. This cruise will include light hors d’oeuvres, entertainment and a cash bar. Cruise price varies. For more information visit www.funontheriver.com Nov 13- Petsmart Holiday Event 12-3 P.M. Petsmart at Eastchase. Volunteers will have adoptable dogs. Come and find a new buddy! www.montgomeryhumane.com Nov 13-14-“Mistletoe” Times vary. Alabama Dance Theatre. Come enjoy a holiday tradition featuring “Messiah” with live accompaniment by the Montgomery Chorale and “Favorite Dance on Christmas” and “The Little Match Girl.” Admission charged. 334.241.2800 www.alabamadancetheatre.com Nov 14-Holiday Open House 1-5 P.M. Alexander City. Local businesses open their doors to showcase the season’s most festive holiday decorations and merchandise. Free to the public. 256.234.3461 www.alexandercity.org
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when? what? where? Nov 14- Blues Cruise 5:30-8 P.M. Harriott II Riverboat. The Harriott II has the ideal solution to the Sunday night blues with a cruise featuring the area’s best blues and jazz musicians. Admission charged. For more information visit www.funontheriver.com Nov 16-Lyle Lovett 7:30 P.M. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Country music recording artist Lyle Lovett and His Large Band makes his way to the stage. Ticket prices vary. 334.481.5100 www.mpaconline.org Nov 16-Dave Mathews Band 7 P.M. Philips Arena, Atlanta. www.ticketmaster.com Nov 17-“Mannheim Streamroller” 7:30 P.M. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Broadway in Montgomery presents the Christmas music of “Mannheim Streamroller,” by Chip Davis. Ticket prices vary. 334.481.5100 www.mpaconline.org Nov 18-7th Annual Pre-Holiday Shopping AmericasMart, Atlanta, Georgia. Members and their guests will enjoy a day of shopping in the Gift Mart followed by a seated luncheon with mimosas in an exclusive private room. Members and their guests will receive wholesale pricing plus 5% off diamonds and fine jewelry and a special drawing for a $150 gift certificate will be held. Members and guests of members only. For membership information contact membership director Phyllis Fenn, 334.834.8920 phyllis.fenn@ourclub.com Nov 18-Stella & Dot Holiday Open House 5-7 P.M. The Tipping Point, Hampstead. Come mix and mingle and check off your Christmas list early! From necklaces, rings, bracelets and more grab your musthave piece this season. Visit Stella & Dot online to view jewelry. www.rsvp-montgomery.com Nov 18-Oklahoma! 7 P.M. The Davis Theatre for Performing Arts. Winner of the Pulitzer Prize, two Academy Awards, a Grammy and a special Tony Award, Oklahoma! is the classic American musical that launched the remarkable songwriting collaboration of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein. Ticket prices vary. 334.241.9567 www.montgomery.troy.edu/davistheatre Nov 19- The Story of Sieu Tang Wood-How She
Built Her Empire
11:30 A.M.–1 P.M. Capital City Club. Come to the Club to listen to Sieu Tang Wood, NFIB My Business Magazine’s Small Business Champion. Hear her amazing story about how she came from Laos with just $25 to now owning Tang’s Alterations and Designs, with six locations in the Montgomery area. This event is open to non-members. $20 and lunch provided. Please contact Member Relations Director, Ashley Brandle, at 334.834.8920 or ashley.brandle@ourclub.com www.clubcorp.com
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StartS November 19!
facebook.com/alabamashakes
www.asf.net | 800.841.4273
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An Evening with
Troy University Rosa Parks Museum Presents:
Sarah Jones A Future of Opportunities
November 29, 2010 Alabama Shakespeare Festival Festival Stage 7:30 p.m. Tickets Start at $35
troy.edu
For tickets call the Alabama Shakespeare Festival 1-800-841-4273
One Night Only! Troy University’s Rosa Parks Museum will celebrate its first decade with a special performance by Tony Award winning actress and playwright Sarah Jones. Her performance, “An Evening with Sarah Jones,” is a fundrasing event to kick off the museum’s tenth anniversary celebration. Jones is well known for her multicharacter solo show “Bridge & Tunnel,” which was an acclaimed, long running hit on Broadway. Proceeds benefit programs at the Troy University Rosa Parks Museum Rosa Parks.indd 1
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when? what? where? Nov 19- Lobster Feast Times vary. Capital City Club. It is time for the annual Lobster Feast! Enjoy a 1.5 lb Maine lobster, clam chowder, house salad, steamed corn, baby potatoes and delicious apple pie for dessert. Other options will be available so everyone can join the fun! Members and guests of members only. For membership information contact membership director Phyllis Fenn, 334.834.8920 phyllis.fenn@ourclub. com www.clubcorp.com
Davis Theatre Historic Landmark in Downtown Montgomery
Nov 19-Dec 24-Peter Pan the Musical Times vary. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Come join Peter, Wendy and Tinker Bell on an enchanted flight to Neverland where they join the Lost Boys and take on the dreaded Captain Hook. Admission charged. 334.271.5326 www.asf.net Nov 19-Jason Aldean 8 P.M. BJCC Arena, Birmingham. www.ticketmaster.com Nov 20-10th Annual Turkey Burner 8 A.M. Presented by Metro Fitness. Join us for the 10th Annual Turkey Burner, a family event giving everyone the opportunity to participate in a USATF certified 5K and/or 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk benefiting the Montgomery Area Food Bank. Both the 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk start and end at MetroFitness and take you through the beautiful Wyndridge neighborhood. Participant fees charged. 334.396.0040 www.metrofitness.com Nov 20-Free Children’s Art Workshop Times vary. Prattville Creative Arts Center. Children ages 3 to 12 years will create a holiday painting suitable for gift giving or to cherish forever. Free admission but reservations are required due to limited space. 334.358.0297 www.prattvilleal.gov Nov 20-The Gathering Market 10 A.M.-2 P.M. Trinity Episcopal Church, Wetumpka. Come ease your Thanksgiving stress level by buying delicious casseroles, deserts, and other traditional holiday foods made by some of Wetumpka’s best cooks! Vendors will have a variety of handmade Christmas gifts and decorative items as well as art and food specialties for sale. For more information contact Dianne Searcy at 334.567.8911
Where timeless elegance brings your event alive. Give your event the splendor and grace of this beautifully restored 1930s treasure. • Impressive facility to rent at reasonable and competitive rates for special events
Nov 20-21-Alabama Nature Center General Public
Weekend
8 A.M.-5 P.M. Millbrook. Enjoy hiking five miles of scenic ANC trails while learning about the fascinating natural history of Alabama. Admission charged. 334.285.0085 www.alabamawildlife.com Nov 24-Pre-Turkey Day Show 7:30 P.M. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Davis Entertainment and Gentleman Jack present the PreTurkey Day Show starring comedian J.J. Ticket prices vary. 334.481.5100 www.mpaconline.org Nov 24-AlleyJam AlleyBAR. An evening full of non-stop live music, featuring One Kind Favor, Hellakopta of Love and many more. www.alleybarmontgomery.com
• Amazing sound and specialized lighting • Large stage and dressing rooms • Great for theatrical presentations, concerts, dance troupes, commencements and guest speakers expecting large audiences Learn more at 334-241-9567 or e-mail davistheatre@troy.edu
troy.edu (click on Montgomery Campus, then go to Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts)
A future of opportunities.
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when? what? where? Nov 25-Annual Turkey Day Classic 1 P.M. Cramton Bowl Stadium. Come participate in the traditional football rivalry featuring the Alabama State University Hornets versus the Tuskegee University Golden Tigers. Admission charged. 334.229.4100 www.hornethomecoming.com Nov 26-The Iron Bowl 1:30 P.M. Bryant-Denny Stadium, Tuscaloosa. Do not miss out on the Southeast’s biggest college football rivalry featuring the Auburn Tigers against Alabama’s Crimson Tide! Nov 27-Christmas on the Coosa Ball 7-11 P.M. Wetumpka Civic Center. Come out for a night of fun, food and music. Ticket prices vary. www.wetumpkachamber.com Nov 29- Wetumpka Christmas Tree Lighting 5-7 P.M. Gold Star Park, Wetumpka. The City of Wetumpka invites you to the Christmas on the Coosa Tree Lighting Ceremony. Free to the public. www.wetumpkachamber.com Nov 29- Troy University Rosa Parks Museum
Presents: An Evening with Sarah Jones
7:30 P.M. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Troy University’s Rosa Parks Museum will celebrate its 10th anniversary with a special performance by Tony Award winning actress and playwright Sarah Jones. Jones will present her critically acclaimed one-woman show “An Evening with Sarah Jones” as a fundraising event to kickoff the museum’s 10th anniversary celebration. Tickets for the benefit performance range from $35 to $75 and proceeds from this event support programs of the museum. For ticket information call 1.800.841.4273 ww.asf.net Nov 30-Second Annual Benefit to Business Gala 6 P.M. Renaissance Montgomery Hotel and Spa at the Convention Center. The Auburn Montgomery School of Business will present the Second Annual Benefit to Business Gala. The student driven affair will host a silent auction and a tasting of exquisite wines. The evening will culminate with a tantalizing display of culinary mastery by Chef John Melton, who will demonstrate the preparation of a three course meal of wild game. Tickets are $100 or $1,000 for a table of 10. To make reservations contact Jan Hargrove 334.244.3478 Nov 30-John Tesh 7 P.M. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. A Montgomery Family Christmas benefitting Baptist Hospice featuring recording artist John Tesh. Ticket prices vary. www.mpaconline.org
December Dec 2- Prattville Christmas Tree Lighting and Winter Wonderland
5 P.M. Heritage Park, Prattville. This year, the entire family can enjoy a winter wonderland with the new Candy Cane Fountain. Children can visit Santa and his elves in his sleigh. Free admission. 334.356.0297 www.prattville.gov.
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when? what? where? Dec 2-31-The 19th Annual Christmas Light Festival
2010
caters
A Montgomery dining legend that to your every need. The c it y ’s great steakhouse now of fers pr ivate dining and catering for special events like rehearsal dinners, corporate functions and holiday parties. Book now for customized events catered to your needs.
5:30-9:30 P.M. The Montgomery Zoo. Thousands of holiday lights illuminate The Montgomery Zoo in shapes of animals and Christmas themes. See the beautiful displays by train or by foot. Enjoy live entertainment, food, gifts and pictures with Santa. Call for specific dates. Admission fees charged. 334.240.4900 www.montgomeryzoo.com Dec 3-Diamond Princess Ball 6-8 P.M. Capital City Club. A Father-Daughter evening your little princess will remember for a lifetime. Waltzing and dining at the Capital City Club all dressed up is a perfect evening for girls 6th grade and under to spend with their fathers. Prices vary. Call 334.240.4500 to make reservations. www.oldalabamatown.com Dec 3- City of Montgomery Christmas Parade 6 P.M. Depart from Cramton Bowl and parade downtown to the Court Street Fountain. 334.241.4400 www.montgomeryal.gov Dec 4-6- SAC’S 30th Annual Christmas Arts and
Crafts Show
405 Cloverdale Road | Reser vations d i n i n g
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5-7 P.M. Renaissance Montgomery Hotel and Spa. The Society of Arts and Crafts presents the Annual Christmas Arts and Crafts Show. Great art and wonderful crafts and gift items will be for sale. www.sacsgallery.org Dec 4-Montgomery Antique Galleries Holiday Open House 10 A.M.-5 P.M. Montgomery Antique Galleries. Come join us for fabulous shopping, holiday treats and great door prizes! www.montgomeryantiquegalleries.com
Dec 4-The Elite Comedy Experience 7 P.M. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. E.L.I.T.E. Entertainment and Promotions presents “The Elite Comedy Experience,” featuring six of the funniest comedians and actors around. Ticket prices vary. 334.481.5100 www.mpaconline.org Dec 4-Troy University Rosa Parks Museum Holiday
Open House
10 A.M.-2 P.M. Troy University Rosa Parks Museum. Come join in the first annual Rosa Parks Holiday Open House as you tour the museum and enjoy a special activity for the whole family. The open house will also feature the art of nationally renowned artist Ted Ellis, who will also be selling some of his one-of-a-kind pieces at the museum. 334.241.8701 www.montgomery.troy.edu Dec 4-Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis 8 A.M.-12 P.M. Huntingdon College. This fun family event featuring a 5K competitive run, a free Tot Trot for first time runners, as well as a family run. Also a 1 Mile Santa chase for children under 8. Fee for participants. 334.244.1179 www.arthritis.org Dec 5-Santa Sunday Brunch 11 A.M.- 2 P.M. Capital City Club. Join us for a memorable Santa Sunday Brunch! You and your family are sure to 70
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when? what? where? enjoy Chef Michael’s extravagant holiday buffet and kid’s gingerbread house making station. Have your wish list ready for your visit with Santa Claus, because he’s checked his list twice! Paul Robertson of Robertson’s Photography will be here too. Members and guests of members only. For membership information contact membership director Phyllis Fenn, 334-834-8920 phyllis.fenn@ourclub.com www.clubcorp.com Dec 5 –Usher and Trey Songz Live at Philips Arena 7 P.M. Philips Arena, Atlanta. www.ticketmaster.com Dec 8-Tour d’Italia cooking classes Times vary. The Hotel at Auburn University-Ariccia. Spice up holiday gatherings with cooking classes and intimate parties on December 8, 15 and 22. Led by Executive Chef Andrew Litherland and Chef de Cuisine Miguel Figueroa, the classes will highlight traditional Italian holiday foods. Attendees will get hands on experience working with the chefs and will learn how to prepare a variety of festive Italian dishes. For $100 per person for groups of up to 14, planners can reserve these events as a unique holiday party. Attendees will be able to sample their creations, which will be paired with select wines. To reserve a cooking class for a holiday party, call Hayley Grimes at 334.321.3179 Dec 9-Young Execs Holiday Party 6-10 P.M. Capital City Club. The Capital City Club’s Young Leadership Council is inviting young professionals to the group’s second annual Holiday Party. Bring your friends and business colleagues to enjoy hors d’oeuvres and cocktails, wine tasting, live music and a DJ later to have a good time! $20 includes two beverage tickets and hors d’oeuvres. Please RSVP for you and your guests no later than Tuesday, December 7. This event is open to non-members. Please contact member relations director Ashley Brandle at 334.834.8920 or ashley.brandle@ourclub.com www.clubcorp.com Dec 9 -“Sounds of the Season” 7 P.M. The Davis Theatre for Performing Arts. The sun, moon and stars will inhabit Troy University’s Davis Theatre as the College of Communication and Fine Arts ushers in the Christmas season in a captivating, inspiring setting of evergreens, wintry branches and illuminations. Troy University is proud to present a holiday extravaganza of music, dance and theatre featuring the talent of more than 300 students and 20 faculty members from Troy University’s John M. Long School of Music and the Department of Theatre and Dance. Ticket prices vary. 334.241.9567 www.montgomery.troy.edu/davistheatre Dec 9-RSVP Tacky Christmas Party 7 P.M.AlleyBAR. Dust off your tackiest Christmas sweater and come enjoy great music and fun! $5 admission. www.rsvp-montgomery.com Dec 9-Traditions of Holidays Past 5-8 P.M. Old Alabama Town. An evening of magic as the authentic 19th century village is illuminated by candlelight and all decked out for the holidays. This family friendly NOV/DEC 2010
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FILET & VINE
Montgomey’s Premiere Gourmet Market, Deli & Bottleshoppe filetandvine.com 431 Cloverdale Road 334.262.8463 • Fax: 334.834.9463 Hours: Monday - Friday 10am - 7pm Hotbar 11am - 6:30pm Saturday 7am - 5pm; Breakfast 7am - 10:30am BBQ and Hotbar 10:30am - 4:30pm
MONTGOMERY’S LARGEST WINE & BEER INVENTORY OVER 15,000 BOTTLES IN STOCK 72
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when? what? where? event will showcase holiday traditions, crafts and music from the 1800s. Tastings of special treats and a photo opportunity with Father Christmas make the evening enchanted for all ages. For more information call 334.240.4500 www.oldalabamatown.com Dec 11-Christmas on the Coosa 8 A.M.-6 P.M. Downtown Wetumpka. The annual Christmas extravaganza with arts and crafts, street parade, food, concessions, handmade quilt show, classic car show, entertainment and activities on the Coosa River culminating with a spectacular fireworks exhibition at dusk. 334.567.1384 www.wetumpkalibrary.com Dec 11-Free children’s art workshop Times vary. Prattville Creative Arts Center. Children ages 3 to 12 years will create a holiday painting suitable for gift giving or to cherish forever. Free admission but reservations are required due to limited space. 334.358.0297 www.prattvilleal.gov Dec 14-5th Annual Messiah Sing-Along with the
Montgomery Chorale
7-8 P.M. Dexter Avenue United Methodist Church. Members of the community are invited to join in a moving performance of this baroque masterpiece. Seating is by voice part. A casual reception will be held following the concert. 334.263.0549 www.dexterave.org Dec 17-21 Montgomery Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” 7:30 P.M. The Davis Theatre for Performing Arts. A Montgomery tradition since 1976, The Montgomery Ballet presents the 34th annual production of the Nutcracker. Admission charged. 334.409.0522 www.montgomeryballet.org Dec 18-Disney Live! Mickey’s Magic Show! Times vary. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Come be a part of the magic with Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Donald and the gang for Mickey’s Magic Show! Big family fun for the holiday season! Ticket prices vary. 334.481.5100 www.mpaconline.org Dec 18-Blue-Gray Colonels Ball 8 P.M. Garrett Coliseum. Private Invitation Only. Dec 21-Prattville Pops Christmas Concert 7 P.M. Church of the Living Water, Prattville. This event is free and open to the public. www.prattvilleal.gov Dec 31-Emerge Montgomery NYE 2010 9 P.M. Location TBA. EMERGE’s famous New Year’s Eve celebration continues in 2010! Make plans to ring in the New Year at the hottest party in town! 334.262.2261 www.emergemontgomery.com Dec 31-New Year’s Eve at AlleyBAR AlleyBAR. Kick off the New Year right at AlleyBAR with live entertainment from the Raygun Administration. $25 admission, includes a champagne toast at midnight.
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At the Movies with Miss Deaf Alabama By: Blue Sullivan
Since Nicole LaMont was crowned Miss Deaf Alabama in 2009, she has put her celebrity to work on a laudable cause. Nicole is a fervent advocate for bringing captioning to theaters. Simply put, captioning is a kind of subtitles (those little words at the bottom of your screen when you watch a foreign film, for instance) created so that the deaf can follow the dialogue and action in a movie. Nicole sat down with RSVP to talk about making this long-awaited dream a reality in local theaters. RSVP: You’re a big proponent of bringing captioning to movie theaters. Tell us briefly what that means for hearing-impaired people.
RSVP: What progress have you seen since you began advocating for captioning?
Nicole: Bringing captioning to the movie theaters opens a whole new world of entertainment for the deaf community in such a way that we can equally enjoy the excitement or relaxation of having the option of going to the movie theater. The movie theater is a public event/hang out spot that every hearing person has the option of participating in. We, as deaf individuals, don’t even have that option and are excluded from the public entertainment. It is important that the deaf community has the option.
Nicole: I’ve been speaking with the regional manager for Rave Motion Pictures for years, and this company is the most obstinate I’ve ever worked with. Out of all of the Rave theaters across the globe, zero support captioning in the theater…Currently, Eastdale Mall Cinemas 8 has committed to welcoming deaf viewers to their theater by providing limited caption showings. This is something new the theater has agreed to try and so far it has been working out wonderfully. Deaf movie goers as far away as Birmingham and Mobile have come to enjoy the theater experience.
RSVP: When did you begin your campaign to bring this to local theaters, and what have you done with it since?
RSVP: How has captioning affected the theaters that have implemented it?
Nicole: I have wanted captioning in the theaters since I was 12 years old when I woke up deaf. I loved the movies and used to go every single weekend until then. I remember when I attempted to go see a movie in the theater years after my hearing loss and left in tears. All I could do was look at the audience with big grins on their faces or shock or whatever expression and could only wonder what was so funny, shocking or sad. I felt I was no longer part of the “public” because I was now deaf… I’d been advocating captioning since age 12, but I began working with the theaters directly since 2003… I have been continuously communicating with the movie theaters and educating them on the importance of the captioning and also have been educating the public when I can.
Nicole: I took the liberty to call 15 other theaters that support captioning and spoke with all of the managers, telling them I was doing a survey and wanted to know the complaint rate regarding the captioning for the deaf viewers. Each manager told me they have either had zero complaints or maybe one or two but have never lost a customer. Actually they gained viewers, because now the deaf viewers were welcome…Managers told me that bringing captioning was the best thing that they’d done for the theaters.
CollegeSCOPE We Southerners don’t have much use for Horoscopes. Determining fate by the alignment of the stars doesn’t make much sense to the rational Southern person. We believe in things we’ve experienced, understand and which have brought us much joy. Namely, it’s the colleges we attended and fervently root for. RSVP thus brings you a “horoscope” based around your college of choice. Good advice and future prognostication await below.
Alabama State: This summer and fall have seemingly been polar opposites for both the Hornets and you. A string of early successes have given way to a series of missteps. The winter will be about flipping that energy back to the positive. You can do it!
Alabama: Both you and the Tide have a history of high achievement. When you are giving it your all, there isn’t anyone that can beat you. However, you must follow the example of Nick Saban and pay close attention to the small stuff. Like a famous philosopher once said, “God dwells in the details.” Create a new dynasty in your love and work life by paying attention to detail. It’s the seemingly small things that can often bring you the most happiness. Auburn: The last couple of months have been a whirlwind of excitement for you. Like your beloved football team, you have pulled victory from the jaws of defeat several times of late. But now is not the time to rest on your laurels. Hard work and a keen sense of others’ needs are necessary to ensure your continued success. Don’t make those recent successes look like a fluke. Yours is a bright path ahead, assuming you put your best foot forward. 76
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Auburn Montgomery: Like those guys 45 minutes from you, you have experienced some serious highs since summer. Not that there haven’t been lows, but your outlook is sunnier than you could’ve possibly imagined a few months ago. As much as you may write it off as luck, that positive attitude is one of the primary reasons for your success. No matter what turmoil life throws your way, keep smiling. Faulkner: Both you and Faulkner football have had highs (the Pikeville overtime win) and lows (the Huntingdon blowout loss) in the past few months. It isn’t a lack of ability that’s troubling you. What’s lacking is consistency. Find what you’re best at and pursue it without fail.
Huntingdon: High expectations early (the first top 25 ranking in school history) have led to a big fall for both the Hawks and in your personal life. Good looks and a killer smile don’t always equal soulmate. Set your expectations reasonably, and you won’t be disappointed. Plus, you might see that exciting date for who they really are, a temporary entertainment with no long range potential.
Troy: Like your beloved Trojans this season, you also have experienced heartbreak in months past. Yet like your football team, you have forged triumph from tragedy. Keep your head up, because in the same way that failure can bring more failure, success can also bring more success. It’s out there for the taking if you will grab it.
Meeting Space Auburn Montgomery is the affordable, convenient choice for meetings, seminars, corporate retreats, and luncheons. Meeting rooms for 20 to 200, with on-site logistics and full service management available.
For details call 244-3343 or visit www.aum.edu/coned.
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caters
A Montgomery legend It’s only fitting that one ofdining Montgomery’s finest restaurants would be in the center of the city, in an historic neighborhood that exudes the character of the that city itself. Located in the heart of Montgomery’s historic Old Cloverdale, Theto Chophouse Yearneed. is easily yourVintage every accessible from within the city and for visitors traveling
BRENDLE REN TA LS 485 Eastern Blvd • Montgomery, AL 36117
(334) 279-7368 • brendlerentals.com
to town. The c it y ’s great steakhouse now of fers pr ivate dining anddinners catering forfriends special events rehearsal From with and familylike to the most dinners, corporate functions and holiday parties. memorable occasions,Vintage Year has been an important Book now events catered to began your needs. part of for thecustomized fabric of Montgomery. It all in 1984, when The Vintage Year opened as Montgomery’s only specialty wine shop. Soon after, the owners began serving | R e s e r v athe 4 0 5 Cgourmet l o v e r d alunches l e R o a to d accompany t i o shop’s n s 26fine 4 . 8selection 4 63 of wines. In a short time, incredible dinner entrees were d i noffered. i n gAnd the d r i is n history. k s The cVintage a t e r ihas n held g rest Year the honor of Montgomery’s fine dining experience for decades. For over 25 years The Vintage Year has been a landmark for fine dining in Montgomery and now, as The Chop House at The Vintage Year, we strive to keep the legend alive. Our goal is to consistently serve you the best food by sourcing the finest meat, game, and seafood from around the country and locally. Although reservations are not required, they are recommended. So make the call. Not only do we cater parties outside the restaurant, The Chophouse at The Vintage Year also offers private and group dining for any type of event, so let us help you plan the perfect holiday party for your office or family and friends. And remember, an incredible meal makes the perfect gift. So give a Chophouse Vintage Year gift certificate.
Hours of operation are 5:30 to 10:00 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday 334-264-8463 chophousevy.com
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(205) 914-4527
www.chefdavecarvesice.com chefdavecarvesice@hotmail.com
TEMPTATIONS Ham and High’s new fall menu focuses on seasonal, fresh, local and amazingly affordable cuisine, with entrees now as low as $10. Centered around a Farm-to-Table approach, Ham and High offers only the freshest meat and produce sourced from local farmers and artisans or on-site at Hampstead Farms. Ham and High is open for dinner Wednesday through Saturday starting at 5 p.m. Starting this November, Ham and High will offer a Sunday Brunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring everything from house-made French toast to farm-fresh omelets. LIBATIONS The bar and patio at Ham and High offer a great afterwork spot to enjoy a beer, cocktail or glass of wine with family and friends in a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. With live music on Fridays, $4 Happy Hour specials from 5 to 7 p.m. every day and one of Montgomery’s most unique, yet affordable wine selections, there’s something for everyone. CELEBRATIONS Ham and High offers a unique, charming venue for a holiday party with friends, family, office groups and more! Guests ring in the holiday season with the Ham and High menu or work with the Ham and High culinary team to create a customized “Family-Style” rustic meal, just for their group. Dates are filling up fast, so call 334.239.9982 for more information or to check available dates.
original soups select salads wraps major potatoes favorite sandwiches New Orleans muffalettas toasted po'boys NEW pasta meals paninis and wrapinis junior meals always free ice cream!
‘Deli’cious For All Tastes
dine in / take out / delivery
and Catering for All Occasions
1520 Eastern Blvd. Montgomery • 334-409-9890 jasonsdeli.com
LOCATION Situated in the heart of Hampstead’s thriving Village Center, Ham and High is conveniently located off Taylor Road just 1.5 miles south of Vaughn Road. For more information, visit www.thehamandhigh.com or call 334.239.9982 today.
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Gets You a Jump Start on Your New Year’s Resolution! Assessment includes: initial consultation, BMI evaluation, body fat analysis, circumference measurements, flexibility, strength, & endurance test and recommended fitness regimen. Plus ask about discounts on multiple session packages! www.glassfitnesstraining.com
334.356.7802
AL-SPAD101025_194719_0
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resource directory 129 Coosa Street, p. 63 129 Coosa Street Montgomery,AL 36104 334.262.8859 www.129coosa.com
2940 Salon, p. 72 2940 Zelda Road #A Montgomery,AL 36106 334.260.9602 www.2940salonspa.com Alabama Shakespeare Festival, p. 65 1 Festival Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 334.271.5353 www.asf.net
Alfa Insurance, p. 33 1.800.964.2532 www.alfainsurance.com AlleyBAR, p. 3
166 Commerce Street Montgomery,AL 36104 334.387.3333 www.alleybarmontgomery.com
Alley Station, p. 62
130 Commerce Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.277.1077 www.alleystation.com
Amore, p. 53
4695 Vaughn Road Montgomery,AL 36106 334.386.2060
Arbors on Taylor, p. 27
485 Taylor Road Montgomery,AL 36117 334.386.2655 www.thearborsontaylor.com
Arrow Rents & Party Professionals, p. 81 5600 Calmar Drive Montgomery,AL 36116 334.277.0460 www.arrowrents.net
AUM, p. 77 7440 East Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 334.244.3000 www.aum.edu Bella, p. 81 8129 Vaughn Road Montgomery,AL 36116 334.272.8116 www.bellavanleez.com Bill Ingalls Photography, p. 20
1043 Woodley Road Montgomery,AL 36106 334.264.3333 www.billingalls.com
Brendle Rentals, p. 78
485 Eastern Boulevard Montgomery,AL 36117 334.279.7368 www.brendlerentals.com
Cagle & Luster Construction, p. 15 61 Market Place Montgomery,AL 36117 334.260.0205 334.657.3639
Capital City Club, p. 42
201 Monroe Street, Suite 2100 Montgomery,AL 36104 334.834.8920 www.capitalmontgomery.com 80
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Capitol Filmworks, p. 57 7030 Eastchase Lane Montgomery,AL 36117 334.356.3456 909 Forest Avenue Montgomery,AL 36106 334.269.3456 www.capitolfilmworks.com
Glass Fitness Training, p. 79 334.356.7802 www.glassfitnesstraining.com
MJ Yoga, p. 68
Gold’s Gym, p. 25 2300 Berryhill Road Montgomery,Al 36117 334.271.7575 www.goldsgym.com
Montgomery Ballet, p. 21
The Governor’s Mansion Gift Shop, p. 73
Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, p. 47
30 Finley Avenue Montgomery, Alabama 36104 334.241.8824
8161 Vaughn Road Montgomery,AL 36116 334.396.1919
Hampstead, p. 23 5272 Hampstead High Street Montgomery,AL 36116 334.270.6730 www.townofhampstead.com
CosmetAssure, p. 31
Ham and High, p. 23
Charlottes Jewelry, p. 4
334.270.0105 www.cosmetassure.com
Curb Appeal, p. 47
Curbappeallandscapesllc@gmail.com 334.799.1605
Daily Deal Squad, p. 78
www.dailydealsquad.com/montgomery 334.782.0555
Dana’s Floral Design, p. 21
164 East Main Street Prattville,AL 36067 334.361.7778 www.danasfloraldesign.com
Darren Freeman Photography, p. 30 P.O. Box 240404 Montgomery,AL 36124 334.215.7827 www.darrenphotography.com
Davis Theatre, p. 64,70 251 Montgomery Street Montgomery,AL 36104 334.241.9567 www.montgomery.troy.edu/davis DCVI Studios, p. 39
Prattville,AL 36066 334.358.5606 www.dcvistudios.com
Dreamland BBQ, p. 55 101 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery,AL 36104 334.273.7427 www.dreamlandbbq.com Eastside Grille, p. 53
6667 Atlanta Highway Montgomery,AL 36117 334.274.1200 www.eastsidegrille.com
Emerge Montgomery, p. 64
600 South Court Street, Suite 544 Montgomery,AL 36104 334.262.2261 www.emergemontgomery.com
Eve’s Studio, p. 69
2026 Clubview Street Montgomery,AL 36106 334.262.8888 www.evesstudiollc.com
Filet & Vine, p.72
431 Cloverdale Rd. 262.8463
Fine Line Engravers & Gifts, p. 49 1651 Perry Hill Rd. Montgomery,AL 334.281.7577 www.finelineengravers.com
Fresh Face Media, p. 49 201 Monroe St. Montgomery,AL 36104 1888.336.8797 www.feshfacemedia.com
5251 Hampstead High Street Montgomery,AL 36116 334.239.9982 www.thehamandhigh.com
334.451.5326 www.mjhotyoga.com 2101 Eastern Boulevard, Suite 223 Montgomery, AL 36117 334.409.0522 www.montgomeryballet.org
1 Museum Drive Montgomery,AL 36117 334.240.4369 www.mmfa.org
Montgomery Otolaryngology,
p. 71 1722 Pine Street Montgomery,AL 36106 334.834.7221
Montgomery Performing Arts Centre, p. 7
Hello Gorgeous Photography,
201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery,AL 36104 334.481.5100 www.mpaconline.org
hue Studio, p. 20
Montgomery Zoo, p. 35 2301 Coliseum Parkway Montgomery,AL 36110-3250 334.240.4900
p. 5 www.hellogorgeousphotography. com 8155 Vaughn Road Montgomery,AL 36116 334.239.8884 www.huestudioinc.com
Ice Sculptures by David Bromley, p. 79
205.914.4527 www.chefdavecarvesice.com
Jason’s Deli, p. 79 1520 Eastern Boulevard Montgomery,AL 36117 334.409.9890 www.jasonsdeli.com Jim N’ Nicks, p. 73
6415 Atlanta Highway Montgomery,AL 36117 334.213.0046 2250 Cobbs Ford Road Prattville,AL 36066 334.290.1000 www.jimnnicks.com
Jim Orr Photography, p. 75 334.657.5219 www.jimorrphotography.com Kim Box Photography, p. 6 West Main Street Prattville,AL 36067 334.491.0409 www.kimboxphotography.com
Kim Décor, p. 75
334.399.6573 www.kimdecor.com
Nails O Naturel, p. 35
8448 Crossland Loop, Suite 163 Montgomery,AL 36117 334.782.4137 www.nailsonaturel.com
New Park Living, p. 82 9430 New Park Drive Montgomery,AL 36117 334.215.9215 www.newparkliving.com
Obelisk Healthcare, p. 54 4705 Woodmere Boulevard Montgomery,AL 36106 334.558.0262 www.obeliskhealthcare.com Olivia A Salon, p. 39
2101 Taylor Road Montgomery,AL 36117 334.396.4567 www.oliviaasalon.com
Palomar Insurance, p. 31 4525 Executive Park Dive, Suite 202 Montgomery,AL 36116 334.270.0105 www.palomarins.com Peppertree Steaks & Wines,
p. 33 8101 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 334.271.6328 www.steaksnwines.com
Marriott-Legends at Capitol Hill, p. 55
Pine Bar, p. 38 501 Cloverdale Road Montgomery,AL 36106 334.239.9061 www.thepinebar.com
Maya’s Belly Dancing, p. 33
Reed Ingram Motors, p. 57 2900 Eastern Boulevard Montgomery,AL 36116 334.270.8889 www.reedingrammotors.com
McKinney Drapery, p. 79
Hotel & Spa, p. 11 201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery,AL 36104 334.481.5000 www.marriott.com
LaSaladellarte Art Show, p. 27 2500 Legends Circle Prattville,AL 36066 334.290.1235 www.marriottcapitolhill.com
136 Mendel Parkway Montgomery,AL 36117 334.356.6552 www.mayasbellydancing.multiply. com 2123 Woodley Road Montgomery,AL 36111 334.265.9706 www.mckinneydrapery.com
MillerCoors, p. 84
www.millercoors.com
Renaissance Montgomery
Resolution Fitness, p. 59 334.309.4341 www.resolutioncamps.com
Rodan & Fields, p. 15 Lindsey Cross 334.549.2749 www.lindseycross.myrandf.com Rosa Parks Museum, p. 66
231 Montgomery Street Montgomery,AL 36104 334.241.8661 www.montgomery.troy.edu/rosaparks/ museum/
Saint James School, p. 29 6010 Vaughn Road Montgomery,AL 36116 334.277.8033 www.stjweb.org
SaZa Pizza, p. 8 138 Commerce Street Montgomery,AL 36104 334.495.7292 www.sazapizza.com Shoppes at EastChase, p. 24 7274 EastChase Parkway Montgomery,AL 36117 334.279.6046 www.theshoppesateastchase.com Sommer’s Place, p. 35 7972 Vaughn Road Montgomery,AL 36116 334.279.5401 www.sommersplace.com State Farm Insurance, p. 17
Breck Honea 61 Market Place Montgomery,AL 36117 334.272.8423 www.breckhonea.com
Stivers Ford, p. 83
4000 Eastern Boulevard Montgomery,AL 36111 334.613.5024 www.stiversfordlm.dealerconnection. com/
Taylor Crossing, p. 25 100 Taylor Road North Montgomery,AL 36117-6723 334.270.9225 www.taylorcrossingvet.vetsuite.com The Catering Department-City of Montgomery, p. 77
329 East Vandiver Boulevard Montgomery,AL 36110 334.240.4910 Catering.montgomeryal.gov
The Look Boutique, p. 75 1048 East Fairview Montgomery,AL 36106 334.239.7537 The Park Apartment Homes, p. 61 2100 Legends Drive Prattville,AL 36066 334.491.7275 www.theparkapartmenthomes.com
Tipping Point, p.
5015 Hampstead High Street Montgomery,AL 36116 334.260.9110
The Chop House at Vintage Year, p. 70 405 Cloverdale Road Montgomery,AL 36106 334.264.8463
Troy University Montgomery, p. 67 www.troy.edu 888.357.8843
Twisted Spur, p.17 396.7787
Ware Jewlers, p .2
386.9273
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At New Park, you’ll find Montgomery’s only complete family neighborhood with a collection of homes with over 100 plans to choose from. Plus, New Park is the city’s only neighborhood that is home to Montgomery’s newest elementary school and YMCA, and adjacent to the city’s newest middle school. All just a sidewalk away. Homes from the low $200s. Convenience from another time. Enjoy life from a simpler point of view at New Park. For the latest neighborhood news and promotions, follow us on Facebook.®
S a l e s C e n t e r New Park Drive, off Ray Thorington Road 334.215.9215 | newparkliving.com 82
T h e n e w n e i g h b o r h o o d f r o m J i m Wi l s o n & A s s o c i a t e s , L L C
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Have your beer and enjoy it too. ™
Per 12 oz., MGD 64 contains 64 cals., 2.4g carbs, < 1g protein, 0.0g fat.
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