Huntsville, AL August 2023

GLS Kitchen & Bath Showroom is Huntsville’s unique showroom experience, with a wide variety of working displays, located in the Lincoln Mill district.

“There are so many beautiful products on the market; homeowners should seek products that not only are beautiful, but also impactful,” says Maris Park Borris, Delta Faucet industrial designer. “Design should evoke emotion. Homeowners want to create new experiences in their spaces and are encouraged to do so now more than ever.”

Back To School

"Red Rover, Red Rover send Joseph right over." The "oooohhhhs" echoed across the playground of Mrs. Roberts' kindergarten. This extremely shy young girl somehow mustered the courage to say the name of her crush in a game of Red Rover. My first school experience was at a small private school in rural New Hope, Alabama. The teacher Mrs. Roberts still appears in my mind as someone who stepped out of Little House On The Prairie. She was well mannered, calm, and wise, and was the first person outside my family to make me feel like I was capable. When she was casting the school play, she asked me to be the lead. I was so shy that I said, "No." After seeing me rehearsal after rehearsal standing in the background mouthing all the words, she again approached me and said, "I want you to do this." I practiced every chance I got. I wanted her to be proud of my performance, and for my family to be proud.

When I think of school days, fond memories of Trapper Keepers, pens with the different colors you push down, Duckhead shorts, and Sebago shoes all come to mind. But what resonates most are the teachers. This little girl from New Hope wasn't the smartest or the most talented, but along the way, she was blessed with teachers that encouraged and challenged her. Teachers who ignited a spark, a belief, that maybe she too was capable of great things. Teachers like Mrs. Lawler, Mrs. May, Mrs. Coker, Mr. Pheeters, Mr. Swanson, Mrs. Hammer, Mrs. Shackelford, Dr. Scott, Dr. Turner, and others. How many teachers have changed the trajectory of a child? Especially children who do not have the same advantages as others.

From our Rising Stars to our frontline workers in When I Grow Up, I Want To Be,  you will find that being successful means having people in your life who encourage and challenge you. Moms And The Roles They Play shines a light on the many duties moms take on to provide a good life for their children. Plus there are fun reads Hosting A Backyard BBQ, Pup Friendly In The Rocket City, and Sweatin’ It; and moving reads Ode To The Lovey and Be The Driver. So settle in and learn something new about your city, school is in session. Long.Live.Print.

August 2023

PUBLISHER

Amy Bailey | amy.bailey@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Carrie Tate | carrie.tate@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Mary Nell Cole

MARKET SUPPORT MANAGER

Weezie Boiles

INTERN

Mia Rogers

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Nadia Kidd

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Margaret Gleason, Sallie Keene Denton, Kari Kampakis

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jennifer Tarkington, Joshua Berry

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

Correction: In our July issue we misspelled Jennifer Ellinger's name as Esslinger.

1: Bank Independent Open House and Ribbon-Cutting Celebration at 225 Holmes Avenue, Downtown Huntsville 2: Huntsville Learning Center Golf Tournament at Huntsville Country Club, Lillie and Connor May 3: Honduras ‘Lazarus’ Mission Trip with Mayfair Church of Christ 4: It’s a new era as downtown now has an ice cream parlor-Big Spoon Creamery! 5: Huntsville Learning Center Golf Tournament at Huntsville Country Club

JASON BOWIE

6: Wellstone’s Beacon of Hope Gala sponsored by Merrill Lynch featuring sports anchor Lauren Sisler 7: Teri & Scott Strickland, Jessica Boling of the Microwave Dave Music Education Foundation at PorchFest 8: Oshi Poke owner Maggie Dong Rees with her framed Huntsville City Lifestyle article 9: Kira Hughes & Lana White performing at the Hendley Group Porch at PorchFest 10: Wellstone’s Beacon of Hope Gala John and Deborah Adams, Elizabeth and James Lomax, Lindsey and Jermaine Davis

STEPHANIE E. JENNINGS

DEVONA HAWKINS

DEVONA HAWKINS

STEPHANIE E. JENNINGS

RISING STARS

ARTICLE BY SALLIE KEENE DENTON

THESE STUDENTS AND GRADUATES ARE MAKING THEIR MARK IN ALABAMA AND BEYOND

Jihad El-Amin III, 17

New Century Technology High School

Huntsville native turned brief New Yorker, Jihad is making big waves in our community. Recently elected student body president of New Century Technology High School, he said that while running he was focused on unifying the student body. He focused on the collective change his fellow students wanted to see. “The first thing I did was build a bridge of my peers, weaving together our hopes and aspirations for our school. Once that was finished, whether I won or not didn’t matter because the students saw unity.” Student body president isn’t the end of his leadership aspirations; Jihad ran for governor of Alabama Boys State and cherishes that campaign amongst his accomplishments. He is also currently serving as the Huntsville Guide Right Chapter’s Kappa League President. “I’ve been in HKL since fourth grade and always dreamed about leading the organization myself one day.”

Headed into his senior year, Jihad wants to pursue a degree and career in computer science, earning a doctorate in data science and eventually starting his own tech firm. Though he’s not leaving politics behind after high school - Jihad wants to also pursue public service and eventually run for office. “Through politics, I’ll be able to help and unite people. It will allow me to help others while giving back to the country and state that have molded me into who I am today.”

Photo credit: Joshua Berry

Born and raised in Huntsville, Margaret Foster is motivated by exciting experiences, meeting new people, and adventure. A recent graduate from the University of North Carolina, Margaret was able to study at The Paris Institute of Political Studies aka Sciences Po. Through this exchange program, she took both French and political science classes. “From the friendships I made to the many cities we explored across Europe to the chance to really immerse myself both culturally and linguistically, the experience was remarkable.” Margaret recently received the Jacques Hardré Undergraduate Award for Excellence in French from UNC. “It was an incredibly rewarding moment for all of the time and effort I have put into my language studies,” says Margaret. Our Huntsville Francophile enjoyed her time in France so much that she will be returning this fall to the Greater Paris Metropolitan Area through the Teaching Assistant Program. When asked to provide tips for living abroad, Margaret shared a few ways to assimilate. “Openmindedness is essential.” She also shared that while it can be challenging to adapt to a non-American lifestyle, it is also very rewarding. “Curve balls are inevitable, as well as homesickness, so make sure you go into it with a flexible attitude and an appreciation for other cultures.”

Margaret Foster, 22 University of North Carolina

Nic Strong, 18

University of North Alabama University of Alabama in Huntsville

Born and raised in Huntsville, Nic Strong made frequent headlines playing football for Randolph School. Nic says it’s the women in his family who keep him motivated. “The sacrifices I have seen my mother make for me and my sister along with seeing my grandma be willing to take the shirt off her back to help someone else keeps me going.” He began his football journey at the age of five. “I got into football after watching my older cousin play football on Friday nights and every Saturday and Sunday watching football on television with my family. At the age of four, I would pretty much beg my mom every day to play football until she finally said yes at five.” Recently Strong signed to play for the UNA Lions. He says that he prayed over his next steps, knowing that God would open the right doors. “Not too much longer Coach Cruce called me. Ever since that phone call, I knew I was going to be a Lion.” Nic plans to study political science at UNA with law school on the horizon.

Megan Alyssa Jordan, 22

Alabama native Megan Jordan moved to Huntsville in 2019 to pursue her dream of a career in aerospace. Thanks to an uncle, Megan spent many summers with her nose in workbooks, solving equations. “It’s something I truly enjoyed. I just never really thought that engineering was for me,” says Megan. Her parents enrolled her in the Student Introduction To Engineering (S.I.T.E) program at the University of Alabama. On the last day she met with aerospace engineering department leaders and toured their facilities. “I could not believe that people had careers in space and aviation.” Then she saw the film Hidden Figures. “Sitting in the theater, I knew I could pursue a career in aerospace and was going to do just that!”

While at UAH, Megan was named a class of 2021 Patti Grace Smith Fellow. The Fellowship has enabled Megan to discover her S.T.E.M identity. “I myself struggled with the belief that I truly belonged in a sector that is mostly composed of men. Patti Grace Smith Fellowship connected me with a community of other black students in aerospace who were going through similar experiences.”

Chase Hammett, 23

Miami University of Ohio

A 2019 graduate from Randolph School, Chase Hammett was born and raised in the Rocket City. A lifelong learner, Chase says his motivation lies in achieving tough challenges and continuing to educate himself through his interactions with others. Chase earned a finance degree from Miami University of Ohio in May, and it was during commencement that he received an award recognizing the top finance student in scholastic achievement, leadership ability, and personal character. “It was an absolute honor, and I am still thinking they must’ve gotten me confused with someone else.” Chase credits the support of his professors, colleagues and family for helping make his achievement possible. As far as what led him to finance? Chase says it was the structured yet personable approaches to the field. “I’ve always found finance to be super fascinating. Any individual who reads or studies the different avenues of finance will learn about the fundamentals of the field, but what makes finance different is how you choose to utilize that information.” Headed to Minneapolis, he will be joining Lazard as an investment banking analyst within their Mergers and Acquisitions advisory teams.

For fun, Chase loves spending time outdoors, whether that be on the lake, at the golf course or a simple walk around the neighborhood. “If I am able to get a good amount of time off I try to spend those moments with friends and family,” says Chase.

As far as Chase’s aspirations for Gen Z? In the short term he hopes they can put down their screens and spend more time on the tangible. Long-term he says, “Generation Z is in a unique position to really capitalize on the current and continued globalization of ideas and cultures. Never before have we seen the interconnectedness of people like we do today, and I think this will ultimately help the world become a better place.”

Julia Holifield, 18 & Maggie Holifield, 15 Huntsville Ballet Company

Sisters Julia and Maggie Holifield moved to Huntsville with their parents almost four years ago. They’ve lived all over due to their father’s Air Force career, including Dayton, OH, and Valdosta, GA, but agree that Huntsville is special. Together they’ve been dancing for a combined 17 years, each beginning their ballet journey in elementary school. They’re part of the pre-professional company at Huntsville Ballet Company, which is celebrating 50 years of dance training in Huntsville. “Ballet is such a beautiful, artistic sport,” says Julia when asked what she loves about dancing. Maggie echoes that sentiment but adds, “It’s always a fun challenge to undertake.” The sisters each love performing on stage and the moments backstage that allow them to bond with their company. The Holifields see their company as a team and appreciate that ballet has taught them hard work and how to work with others. When they’re not dancing, these ballerinas have many hobbies. Maggie enjoys making earrings

and cards. Julia says she relaxes by taking walks, listening to podcasts and music. Like most their age, they enjoy their time spent with friends and family. Amongst their many performances together, Carnival of Animals 2021, Tumbleweed Symphony 2022, and Cinderella 2023 are some of their favorite moments on stage together. The sisters unanimously agree that playing off of each other, especially in more comical roles, is what they enjoy the most about performing together. “I love how easy it is to have a good time on stage with her,” shared Maggie.

They have high hopes for their generation. “I would love for my generation to be known as the generation that slowed down from life’s busyness and devoted itself to ministering to others,” says Julia. For Maggie, “I hope that our generation finds a cure for cancer. I also hope our generation finds ways to help the people around them who are in need as well as being a positive influence on kids younger than us.”

Photo credit: Sarah Mitchell, Straight Street Studios

our community thrives, we

Whenall prosper.

Prosperity is about so much more than money. It’s about living well in a community that is healthy and stable. At Morgan Stanley, we feel fortunate to live in a place that is supported by so many worthy service organizations. Their good deeds make everyone’s life richer.

The Mantooth/Pols/Keene Group at Morgan Stanley

Alex Pols Senior Vice President Financial Advisor

256-690-5479

Alex.Pols@morganstanley.com

Pennie Keene

Senior Vice President Financial Advisor

256-690-5801

Penelope.Keene@morganstanley.com

Mark Mantooth

Managing Director–Wealth Management Financial Advisor

256-690-5456

Mark.Mantooth@morganstanley.com

305 Church Street Huntsville, AL 35801

Left to right: Alex Pols, Pennie Keene, Mark Mantooth

Ode to the Lovey

STORIES OF OUR WELL-LOVED PLUSH FRIENDS

ARTICLE BY AMY BAILEY ILLUSTRATIONS BY WEEZIE BOILES

As a child of less than 2, my father gave me my lovey - “Teddy” the teddy bear. Teddy was (and is) my most precious possession. If there was a house fire, besides the people and pets, Teddy is what I would rescue. I just turned 51.

When my oldest daughter Madison was also 2 years old, I gave her Teddy. It was the most meaningful gift I could give to the person who means everything to me. I don’t know if it is the magic of Teddy or all the years of love that bear has received, but Madison has always loved Teddy as much as I love him, instinctively.

When I went to college at the University of Alabama, Teddy went with me. When Madison went to college at the University of Alabama, Teddy went with her as well. She just finished her junior year and is turning 22.

Teddy has been well-loved. If you’ve ever read The Velveteen Rabbit, this bear is as close as you can come to loving something to make it real. I grew up reading that book and there is a line in it that I’ve always believed to be true: “When a child loves you for a long, long time, not to just play with, but REALLY loves you, then you become real.” Teddy

by Jennifer Lapidus

Lovey The Bunny Blanket

by Victoria Cole

There once was a little girl

Whose very best friend in the world

Was her lovey.

She was with her night & day

And she wouldn’t have it any other way!

In the bed or on the go

Evie James always had Lovey in tow

Lovey sometimes got dirty, or worse sometimes lost, Mommy soon realized we would need more no matter the cost.

This particular lovey could no longer be found in a store.

So off to eBay she went to find her some more!

After competitive bidding

And spending more than is worth admitting

She won three more

Ready for backup stashed away in a drawer!

Many years later the little girl is much bigger

But you can still find Lovey always with her!

My daughter Evie James is 6 years old and she has loved her little bunny blanket since she was about one. That dirty stinky lovey went everywhere with us. The particular lovey she attached herself to is one she received as a gift from her Lolly, my mom. I could not find backups of that exact one anywhere and she would not cuddle with any other stuffed animal. So I turned to eBay where I found 3 more. I bid on each one & ended up spending about $80 in all to have backups. Well worth the cost because they eventually all got loved, whether one got lost or one was washing and we needed a backup! Eventually, the OGs all got lost, except one. Lovey has traveled the world with us, gone to the beach in the sand, gone to ballet classes, waited in the wings at recitals, gone to church, to the grandparents, to the pool & more. Now that Evie James is older, lovey doesn’t come with us quite so many places but I think she will sleep with it forever. Which is fine with me.

“Lovey sometimes got dirty, or worse sometimes lost, Mommy soon realized we would need more no matter the cost.”

RYKER BEAR

There is a special place in our hearts for the lovey gifted to us from dear friends after the loss of our son Ryker, who died on June 20, 2020. At the time, we never knew anyone who had experienced a loss such as ours. Our isolation was intensified because it was during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Eaton family, wanting to do something special for us, reached out to request meaningful articles of clothing or items that represented Ryker. It was difficult to do - gathering one of the outfits he wore in the hospital and other special items of clothing - knowing that they were going to be clipped and cut. But now, having our “Ryker Bear” and seeing it every single day is one of the most special keepsakes we have, bringing comfort every time we see and hold it.

The bear was made by Susan Leshinky, owner of Stitched by Susie, and is constructed of Ryker’s crib sheet and an alligator outfit that was purchased as a sibling set to match his big sister, Ellis. Every part of our Ryker Bear holds a special story; from the star nose (a reminder of the multiple shooting stars we saw the night he died), to the rainbow feet (a nod to the non-profit we began in his memory to support families who have experienced child loss, Ryker’s Rainbow.)

There is nothing more painful than leaving the hospital without your baby and the emptiness your arms feel is extreme. We find healing including Ryker Bear in family photos, Santa pictures each year, and holding it near when tough days arise. There is not a passing day that we do not long to hold our son again and dream of the Heavenly reunion we will one day have. It is comforting to have something so meaningful to cling to until the day Ryker is once again in our arms.

“But now, having our “Ryker Bear” and seeing it every single day is one of the most special keepsakes we have, bringing comfort every time we see and hold it.”

Ryker Bear

by Lacey Schoff

NUNNY BUNNY

The connection with my lifelong lovey, Nunny, was immediate and has lasted over 43 years. He was in my crib when I arrived home from the hospital. As a child, I could not pronounce the word bunny, so I called my rabbit Nunny and declared him a boy.

Nunny and I have had a lifetime of adventures (in fact, he is with me as I write this), but I truly believe the fierce bond formed after I was diagnosed at the age of two with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. My mom remembers while I was in pain, her once outgoing child became shy and withdrawn, and ALWAYS had Nunny by my side.

At one point I was hospitalized at Children’s Hospital for tests and procedures. I was extremely upset and begging to go home, saying, “Nunny doesn’t like it here!” Nunny helped ease the pain and loneliness of my chronic illnesshe is a treasured companion.

Nunny Bunny

by Blair Newman

Seal

by Elizabeth Fleming

Sarah Laughlin’s lovey was not gifted or handed down. Sarah Laughlin picked out her forever lovey, Grey Seal, at a gift shop near Acadia National Park at the age of one and a half while on a family vacation in Maine. She has not let go of Seal since that fall day in 2017. Seal is about the size of a football, grey with black spots with the letters MAINE across his back. His eyes have lost their shine, but Seal remains precious in her sight. Seal brings her confidence in her activities and comfort when traveling. Seal has been camping in Kentucky, horse showing in Georgia, skiing in Utah and always makes the family beach trips. Sarah Laughlin, now seven, may not be taking Seal to school anymore, but Seal is by her side every night without fail! Seal is part of our family.

Featuring: Houston Llew Spiritiles • Connie Ulrich Jewelry • Zara Edwards Art • Orbix Blown Glass • Lafco Candles • Bella Tunno Baby

Hosting A Backyard BBQ

LET MOE’S ORIGINAL BBQ BRING IN THE TASTE OF THE SOUTH

ARTICLE BY AMY BAILEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY BAILEY & NADIA KIDD

Football season inches closer and the sun is starting to shift lower in the sky to create those amber-hued afternoons. Temperatures begin to make way for more tolerable, cooler evenings. Whether you’re yelling Roll Tide or War Eagle or just want to savor the mild evenings, autumn weekends are the perfect time to gather with friends and family outdoors.

Who wants to be tied down to a stove all day? Instead, set the table for your party and bring a taste of the South to football Saturdays with Moe’s Original BBQ. From smoky ribs cooked just right to tender wings to collard greens and cornbread that rival grandma’s, it’s no secret that Moe’s knows Southern food. Something you may not know is that Moe’s Original BBQ was started by three University of Alabama graduates - Mike Fernandez, Ben Gilbert, and Jeff Kennedy (Kennedy is a Huntsville native) - now with over 50 locations across the United States.

If you’re feeling froggy and want to put something homemade on the table, try these favorite recipes from Moe’s Huntsville co-owners Chris Clowers and Mike Ellis and enjoy game day with friends and family.

Cucumber Salad

serves:

20 servings - can be halved ingredients:

• 8 Cucumbers - peeled, cut in half (longways), seeded and cut, full moons, 1/8 inch

• 1 Yellow Onion - cut batonnet 1/8 inch sticks

• 4 Cups Sugar

• 1 1/2 Tbs Salt

• 1 Tbs Black Pepper

• 2 1/2 Cups White Vinegar

• 1/4 Cup Canola Oil

directions:

1. In a bowl, add the sugar and white vinegar.

2. Stir until sugar is completely dissolved, then add the canola oil.

3. Using a large mixing bowl, combine the cut cucumbers, onion sticks, salt and pepper.

4. Pour vinegar marinade over top and mix thoroughly with wooden spoon or clean hands.

5. Refrigerate for 45 minutes and it’s ready to serve!

Moe’s Marinated Slaw

10 servings serves:

slaw mix:

• 1 Medium Head of Cabbage

• 1 Small Red Onion

• 1 Large Green Bell Pepper

• 2 Cups Sugar

prep:

1. Cut cabbage in half (from root end to the top), cut out the root, then cut to 1/8 inch strips

2. Cut sprout side off of red onion, cut in half (from root end to the top), cut to 1/8 inch strips

3. Filet the green bell pepper from top to bottom, then cut filets to 1/8 inch strips (no seeds)

directions:

1. In a tall container add 1/2 shredded cabbage strips, 1/2 red onion strips, 1/2 green pepper strips.

2. Pour 1 cup sugar over the cabbage mixture and repeat the process layering with remainder of the cabbage, then remainder of the cut onions and peppers.

3. Pour 1 cup of sugar on top and set aside.

marinade:

• 2 Cups Cider Vinegar

• 1 Cup Sugar

• 2 Tbs Vegetable Oil

• 1 Tsp Dry Mustard

• 1 Tsp Celery Seed

• 1/2 Tsp Salt

directions:

1. In a medium pot, combine all ingredients and bring just to a boil on the stove, stirring frequently (don’t let marinade boil over or you will have a sticky mess and burned sugar!). Let marinade cool to room temperature.

2. When the marinade has cooled to room temperature, pour marinade over the slaw mixture and place in the refrigerator uncovered overnight.

3. After the slaw has marinated overnight, remove from fridge and in the same container mix the slaw together, combining both of the layers of onions, peppers and cabbage thoroughly, making sure all of the sugar is dissolved into the marinade (you can use clean hands to mix for this step). Then use a colander to drain the marinade off the slaw. Quickly put the slaw in a serving bowl and you’re ready to serve your guests!

A NOSTALGIC JOURNEY INTO TELEVISION AND HOW IT CONNECTS US

ARTICLE BY MARGARET GLEASON

I WANT MY TV

the classic movie marathons AMC aired every weekend. And eventually, many miniseries on premium cable networks. The more shows I watched the more I began to understand human nature. The same character traits, reaction to adversity, thought processes and courses of action always led to an individual’s or group’s demise or success.

In the years that I grew from a preteen to a young adult, television was completely revolutionized. Quality programming was readily available on multiple premium networks. HBO dominated Sunday nights. From my parents’ den to my college dorm to my first apartment, I gathered with many over the years at 8:50pm EST to watch the new Sopranos episode. I can still hear the white noise sound and then the blasting of “woke up this morning” as Tony drove the New Jersey Turnpike.

For many people, television was essential to their sanity during the pandemic. TV was their main source of entertainment, a distraction from the unknown, a stress-free topic to discuss with friends and family, an educational learning tool, and an inspiration to broaden their knowledge on a range of topics.

For me, television has always been these things and more.

I was raised in a household of avid readers and lifetime learners. I was expected to be knowledgeable on current events and to be able to discuss them at the dinner table. I also had strict curfews, pre-approved driving destinations, limited phone use (no kids’ line), and the general understanding of what my mom said went.

Once I reached my preteen years, my parents never regulated my watching of “quality” television. This “freedom to view” did not include anything on MTV or shows like 90210. My parents abhorred shows like 90210 with their simple characters and their irrelevant problems.

However, my “freedom to view” did include the movie HBO debuted on Friday nights and

Since television is so accessible and appeals to all generations, it makes for successful small talk at dinner parties, on long flight, or at the doctor’s office. Mutual interest in television genres is always easy common ground and rarely leads to controversial topics or anything too personal.

It is also an immediate way to judge character and identify potential friendships. If you fail to find a reciprocal affinity for any series you are most likely not compatible and no longer need to waste your time conversing.

It is a great tool for maintaining long distance friendships and familial bonds. Household chores and exercise always go by faster when you are distracted by a show. And whose marriage isn’t better when you are both invested in a series and look forward to watching together at night.

MY FAVORITES:

Worth the Hype TV: The Sopranos, Game of Thrones, Band of Brothers, Breaking Bad, Mad Men

FX: The Americans, Justified, Sons of Anarchy

Hidden Gems: The Knick, Normal People, The Bear

If You Can Endure Subtitles:  Babylon Berlin, Charité , Deadwind

Comedy Favorites:  Curb Your Enthusiasm, Episodes, Moving On, Weeds

Personal Favorite: The Wire

SWEATIN’ IT

Athleisure was the breakout star during 2020’s Covid lockdown and, three years later, it seems it’s here to stay. Today teens can be seen in crop tops, tank tops, tennis skirts, you name it from brands like Lululemon, Aviator Nation, Alo, but the main  go-to of their wardrobe? The sweatshirt. The ultimate wardrobe staple for the stylishly cozy. Usually graphic, logo’d, oversized, and sometimes hooded. These five students show us how they wear them and why.

The

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER TARKINGTON

How Hill styles them:

“I wear them oversized with shorts, leggings or a skirt.”

Why Ellie likes them:

“I love them because of how warm and soft they are.”

How Marybella styles them:

“I like to style with biker shorts or ruffle shorts.”

Hill wearing Malibu Crewneck by Departure

Ellie wearing Coastal Cowgirl Sweatshirt from Caley Paige

Marybella wearing Rainbow Stitch Crewneck by Aviator Nation

Molly’s style:  “I like neutral colors without hoods. Vintage styles are my favorites.”

Molly wearing The College Sweatshirt by The Great from Etc.

Why Alex likes them:

“They give you great comfort and they’re so easy to throw on.”

Alex wearing Hoodie by Dandy Worldwide

WHEN I GROW UP, I WANT TO BE

ARTICLE BY AMY BAILEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY NADIA KIDD

These 3 Huntsvillians are living their childhood dreams of being on the frontlines helping others

If you close your eyes tight, you may remember those days - those days of childhood when we all dreamed of being heroes. Perhaps you were a mighty firefighter rescuing a family from a burning building, a police officer fighting crime like Superman or Wonder Woman, a cowboy capturing the bad guys and riding off into the sunset, or a nurse saving a wounded soldier. Whatever you dreamed of being, it was the thought of being on the frontlines helping others that was most exciting, and remains so for children, generation after generation.

For this patrol officer, fire marshal, and nurse, those childhood dreams became reality. There is a common thread that helped them each achieve their dreams - people in their lives who encouraged them and challenged them. From a teacher who pushes you to reach your true potential to a parent who supports your dreams, whatever they may be, it is those around us who mold us and help us become who we are.

REBEKAH CROCKER, PATROL OFFICER HUNTSVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT

WHAT DID YOU DREAM OF BEING WHEN YOU WERE LITTLE?

My dream was to help people. When my family and I moved back to America from West Africa, I remember seeing police officers helping others. Every time I saw a police officer I told myself, “That is what I want to do when I grow up.”

WHO IS YOUR HERO?

My grandmother, Martha Pullen. I admire her loving heart, courage, and success. I strive to be like her in everything I do.

WHO INFLUENCED YOU THE MOST IN YOUR CAREER?

My parents have been there every step of the way by supporting and pushing me in everything I do. They know my goals and make sure I meet them.

WHO IS YOUR MENTOR?

My grandfather, Bill Crocker. He has given me the best advice when it comes to being successful. When I accomplish an obstacle that I didn’t believe I could do, he always says, “See? It didn’t kill you. It just made you stronger.”

WHICH TEACHER INFLUENCED YOU THE MOST AND WHY?

Jan Waller is a leader and teacher who taught me what being a strong woman is mentally and physically.

"THE TEACHER THAT INFLUENCED ME MOST WAS MRS. WATSON, A BIOLOGY TEACHER AT LEE HIGH SCHOOL. SHE HAD A UNIQUE WAY OF TEACHING BIOLOGY THAT STARTED MY LOVE FOR SCIENCE THAT I APPLIED TO MY FIRE SERVICE CAREER. SHE WAS ALSO VERY STRICT WHILE BEING CARING, WHICH LED ME TO DEVELOP SELF-DISCIPLINE. "

DAN WILKERSON, FIRE MARSHAL

WHAT DID YOU DREAM OF BEING WHEN YOU WERE LITTLE? A cowboy

WHO INFLUENCED YOU THE MOST IN YOUR CAREER?

Fire Marshal Joe Jordan

WHO IS YOUR MENTOR?

Fire Chief Howard McFarlen

WHICH TEACHER INFLUENCED YOU THE MOST?

Mrs. Watson, a biology teacher at Lee High School. She had a unique way of teaching biology that started my love for science that I applied to my fire service career. She was also very strict while being caring, which led me to develop self-discipline.

SUZANNE CROCKER, NURSE PRACTITIONER

WHAT DID YOU DREAM OF BEING WHEN YOU WERE LITTLE?

My entire life I dreamed of becoming a missionary nurse to Africa. I spent over 10 wonderful years in that role in West Africa before moving back to the USA.

WHO IS YOUR HERO?

My heroes were my grandparents Viola and Ernest Laramore. My grandmother only had an eighth grade education, but she was the glue that held the family together. She embodied the verse, “A kindhearted woman gains respect” treating everyone with love and kindness. My grandfather was born in 1898, he was a

true entrepreneur, he even became a contractor/builder after reading materials on it from the library. Both lived into their 90s with clear minds, continuing to encourage their family.

WHICH TEACHER INFLUENCED YOU MOST?

Mr. Stanley was a retired editor for the Atlanta Journal who opted to give back to his community by becoming an English teacher. Because of his unwillingness to accept less than perfect essays, I learned to write. Later in life that helped me write a book Pig in a Taxi and many papers. He pushed us to succeed and although he initially seemed critical, he was very free with praise when we lived up to his standards.

A Praiseworthy Pet Project

A Q&A WITH KELLY THOMPSON OF FELINES & CANINES RESCUE CENTER

1) TELL US ABOUT THE HUNTER STEPHENSON FELINES & CANINES RESCUE CENTER:  The Rescue Center is an innovative life-saving animal shelter. We rescue dogs and cats from animal controls across Northern Alabama that have very limited options for animals to make it out of their shelters alive. We rescue five days a week and bring them to the Center where they receive the physical, emotional and medical care needed to be happy and healthy. They’re then transported each week to high-volume adoption centers in the Midwest where they’re placed into loving, permanent homes! Since our inception in June 2018, we’ve saved more than 17,500 dogs and cats through our shelter.

(2) WHY IS THIS CENTER CLOSE TO YOUR HEART? It means the world to me - I’ve worked professionally in animal welfare for the past 16 years and have never felt so proud or honored to be a part of something so wildly impactful.

(3) WHY ARE RESCUE ANIMALS SPECIAL TO YOU?  Domesticated animals rely almost entirely on us humans to choose to do right by them for the entirety of their lives. It is such a humbling feeling to earn the trust and love of a rescue animal.

(4) HOW CAN PEOPLE GET INVOLVED? We are 100% donor-funded as a 501(c)(3) non-profit. The greatest way to support the Center is by donating to our program at FCRescuecenter.org. You can also join us at our annual fundraiser “Barktoberfest” at Burritt on the Mountain on September 21, 2023! Visit Barktoberfest.org for details.

Alfredo the Cat

MOMS AND THE ROLES THEY PLAY

A mom plays many roles. She is a nurse when there is a tumble, a storyteller at bedtime, and a counselor when feelings are hurt. She is a chef, a taxi driver, a hair stylist, a tutor, a coach, and so many more things. These Huntsville moms share the wisdom they have learned along the road of motherhood, funny moments from their daily routines, and what is most important to them in raising happy, functional children.

HILLARY DUNHAM, owner of Mint Julep Monograms, mintjulepmonograms.com, is a mom of 3 who often feels like she’s running a Bed & Breakfast.

DO YOU TRY TO HAVE BREAKFAST WITH YOUR KIDS DAILY?

Yes. I try to make sure they eat at home, but with 3 teenagers, eating doesn’t seem to be a problem.

DO YOU HAVE TO DEAL WITH ANY SPECIFIC FOOD REQUESTS?

For dinner, I make one meal for everyone and have solid rules of engagement:

1) You have to TRY the food because you can’t dislike something that you haven’t tried.

2) You are allowed to not like something; everyone has different tastes.

3) If you do not like the family dinner, you have to make your own dinner out of whatever you can find. We call that “Christopher Columbus” - which means they have to search and find their own dinner.

For breakfast, though, I make them what I know they will eat because we’re usually in a hurry!

ANY FUNNY STORIES FROM FAMILY BREAKFAST?

I am a morning person. The rest of my family is not. My favorite thing to do is put on music and make up ridiculous dances to make them smile. If it wakes them up, then I’m all for it.

ANY TIPS FOR HELPING MOMS GET OUT THE DOOR IN THE MORNING?

Just do the best you can every day:

• Pop-Tarts in the car trying to avoid being tardy? That works.

• Gourmet, sit down breakfast because that’s how you show love to your family? Awesome!

• Eat breakfast at school because there was nothing at home? Winning! There’s no perfect way to get it all done. Give extra doses of grace to everyone in your family, especially YOU. Making it through the morning rush means you are doing a GREAT job.

CONTINUED >

ARTICLE BY AMY BAILEY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER TARKINGTON

From taxi driver to bed & breakfast owner, mom wears many hats

CATHERINE COURTNEY is a health and fitness coach raising 2 boys to be healthy and independent.

WHERE DOES A NEW MOM BEGIN WITH CREATING AN EXERCISE ROUTINE?

You’re not able to create more timeyou have to use what you have. If you had a doctor’s appointment, you would schedule it and write it on your calendar. Do the same with your workout time.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR TYPICAL DAY.

I wake up before everyone else - I like to have the morning to myself. I meditate, pray, make coffee, have reset time, walk, look at my schedule. I also religiously drink lemon water first thing and have done this for 15 years of this health journey.

Doing all of these things makes me happy. I strongly believe that the way you start your day is the trajectory for how your day is going to go.

WHAT ARE YOUR NON-NEGOTIABLES?

• Lemon water

• Sleep - Protect your sleep fiercely, no kids or pets in bed. I prefer the room be cold and dark, no TV, no blue lights.

• Find your thing - Find what you’ll do on a consistent basis.

HOW DO YOU GET THE KIDS EXCITED ABOUT EXERCISE?

By not talking about it. They’re watching you. If you’re moaning about working out, your children are watching you not enjoy exercise. They need to see an active parent enjoying it. Typically they’ll see you doing things and then ask to do it alongside you.

DO YOU ENCOURAGE AN EXERCISE ROUTINE WITH THE KIDS?

It’s a good idea to have a workout guidethere are great YouTube videos and Netflix has awesome 10-20 minute workouts.

WHAT IF SOMEONE ONLY HAS 30 MINUTES A DAY, WHAT COULD THEY DO TO MAKE SURE THEY ARE DOING SOMETHING?

If you only have 30 minutes for a workout: Air squats: 45 sec Rest: 15

Walking lunges: 45 Rest: 15

Supine heel touches: 45 Rest: 15

Push-ups: 45 Rest: 15

Glute bridge with alt leg extension: 45 Rest: 15 Repeat x 5

This is a great bodyweight circuit that can be done anywhere with zero equipment.

HOW IMPORTANT IS NUTRITION?

Nutrition is the priority over exercise. You can’t out exercise a bad diet.

WHAT NUTRITIONAL MYTHS DO YOU SEE HAPPENING THAT ARE UNHEALTHY?

People are scrambling for something fast because that’s what we’ve become conditioned to. Don’t get drawn into trends. Keep it simple. Stop the negative self-talk. No one is meaner to you than you. Fortify yourself for the onslaught of the day in the morning.

WHAT ARE YOUR TOP 3 TIPS WHEN IT COMES TO NUTRITION?

(1) Read your labels

(2) Eat 5 colors a day

(3) Protein, fat and fiber at every meal  Oh, and water!

CONTINUED >

HALEY MANN, mom of 4, plays many roles including taxi driver and does it all in style.

WHAT IS YOUR FUNNIEST MEMORY FROM CARPOOL?

One morning my child came out in a full dinosaur costume, got in the car, only to find out it was not in fact book character day.

PROS OF BEING A TAXI DRIVER:

• Get to spend time with my kids and hear about their day.

• Encourage creative and athletic development with after school activities.

• Get to know our car pool buddy’s little girls and get lots more information than my own kids would tell me.

CONS OF BEING A TAXI DRIVER:

• I go back and forth on Leeman Ferry 3+ times in an afternoon on occasion.

• The baby sometimes has to be taken places he doesn’t want to be.

• Being told what music to play (often the same song on repeat).

TIPS:

1. Lay out clothes the night before down to the socks.

2. Never wait to get gas in the morning (worst adult decision ever).

3. Always have a backup Lunchable for mornings when you run out of time to pack a regular lunch.

4. Always have favorite quick breakfasts stocked and ready (and teach your kids how to prepare them if possible).

5. Have a bow/hair tie/brush dedicated drawer.

6. Get yourself a really good car pool buddy (shoutout Meagan Tortorigi)!

“Always have a backup Lunchable for mornings when you run out of time to pack a regular lunch.”

Be The Driver

Author Kari Kampakis

How my parenting completely changed once I realized the value of time in the car.

ARTICLE BY KARI KAMPAKIS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEATHER SWANNER

The car I drive is white, but it might as well be yellow because most days of the week I am a taxi driver. I don’t mind it, largely because of advice I heard from parents ahead of me when my kids were little.

First, there was the dad who told me how much he enjoyed taking his daughter to school each morning as it was their special time, a chance for him to stay up-to-speed on her life.

Then there was the mom who told me that when your child turns 16 and starts to drive, you begin to lose them. They want to spend more time with friends, less time at home.

While this may not apply to every teen driver – it certainly was the case for me as a teenager. My best memories at age 16 involved driving around with friends, blaring our favorite songs, and enjoying our newfound freedom.

All this to say, I try not to wish my years as a taxi driver away, and here are a few reasons why:

1. I have their undivided attention – and they have mine. Unlike home, the car doesn’t require a juggling act. I’m not distracted by laundry, dishes, clogged toilets, etc. My only job is to drive, which frees my mind and makes me more attentive…better able to talk and really listen.

2. Picking my kids up from school and activities allows me to catch raw thoughts and emotions. I can often sense by the way my kids approach my car how things went. I love being the first to hear about an accomplishment or a disappointment. I like getting their news hot off the press, and even those car rides where they burst into tears can be a blessing by opening the door to important dialogue and life lessons.

3. Driving my kids enables one-on-one interaction. When you have multiple kids, it’s hard to carve out alone time. I embrace one-on-one moments whenever they come, using things like a 5-minute drive to dance to tell my daughter how proud I am of her or a doctor’s visit as an opportunity to get Starbucks before checking back into school.

4. Not facing a person makes it easier to have honest conversations. I once learned in a psychology class that the car is a great venue for hard and awkward conversations because when we look at someone, we may hold back the truth due to fear of their response or embarrassment.

5. Having older kids requires new ways to connect. Gone are the days when my kids open up to me as I tuck them into bed at night. Many nights, my oldest girls stay up later than me to finish homework. Car talks help me keep a pulse on their lives  as their lives play out.  Being in multiple carpools, I also love carting their friends as well and getting to know their personalities.

My parenting completely changed once I realized the value of time in the car. Never did I imagine, as I buckled screaming babies into car seats and watched cranky toddlers throw sippy cups, that one day  down the road, taking my kids  on the road that I might actually feel grateful to be a taxi driver because of the conversations and special moments that spontaneously come about.

It’s not possible or practical to always be the driver, but when we are, I believe in embracing the season where the car becomes our second home.

Pup Friendly In The Rocket City

Enjoy these local hot spots with your dog

1. HOUND & HARVEST - Located off Whitesburg Drive, this cottage was created specifically for you and your pet. Grab a delicious, healthy lunch or sip on a juice or smoothie and enjoy the spacious backyard.

2. THE CAMP - The place for all day socializing, market shopping, or dancing the night away to a great band - The Camp isn’t just a great spot for humans, but canines too. So put your pooch’s best collar on and come out for some live music, produce shopping or special events like Camp to Amp, Halloween, or Holiday Market.

3. MOE’S BBQ -  If you’re dog walking downtown, don’t miss a plate of wings paired with live music at Moe’s BBQ.

4. EARTH, STONE and FIRE/YELLOWHAMMER BREWING -  Bring the kids and the pups for dynamite pizza. While you wait for your food, enjoy a Southern evening playing and lounging on the great big green lawn.

5. OSHI POKE - Sushi night and you want the dogs along too? Grab an outdoor table in front or on the side patio for great people and pup watching.

6. HONEST COFFEE - Lots of pup socializing happens on this corner of Clinton Avenue and Washington Street downtown. From Poms to Doodles, it is the place for your four-legged friends to see and be seen.

7. POPPY & PARLIAMENT - Kick back, relax, and become one of the regular fur babes to frequent this restaurant and pub. If the bright red decor and phone booth don’t lure you in, the food will, as this is some of the best, most flavorful dishes you will have in the Rocket City.

8. SAM & GREG’S - Enjoy pizza and pups parading on this patio situated on Huntsville’s South Side Square. The best pup watching in the city.

9. BEEZR - This patio on North Side Square welcomes your fur baby. Try their fantastic tacos or their brunch menu, both are out of this world.

DOG FRIENDLY EVENTS

1 | Greene Street Market

Every Thursday at the corner of Eustis and Greene is a pup friendly destination not to be missed. Peruse the produce, sip on some iced tea, and listen to folk music with your best friend by your side.

2 | Dog Nights at the Garden

Explore the Huntsville Botanical Garden with your four-legged friends, Monday afternoons from 4-6pm this summer, May through August. $4 per dog.

3 | Dog Days Wednesdays at Trash Pandas

On Wednesdays (minus September 6), fans can bring their dogs to Toyota Field. A $1 donation per dog will directly benefit a local animal-based non-profit. All dogs must remain in the designated Dog Zone in the Budweiser Berm and the Toyota Outfield Experience throughout the game.

4 | Jazz In The Park

Starting September 3 in Big Spring Park, let Fido have fun while you enjoy some of our nation’s top jazz musicians.

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

THROUGH AUGUST 7TH

Hiley Automotive Back To School Drive

HILEY AUTOMOTIVE

Hiley is collecting Back To School supplies for the Boys & Girls Club of North Alabama. Bring backpacks, paper, pencils, folders, and any school supplies to one of their dealerships.

AUGUST 12TH

Cirque De Soiree

THE ROYAL AT STOVEHOUSE

6:00 PM

Join The American Cancer Society at Cirque de Soiree August 12th at Stovehouse in their mission to fight cancer. This annual event will feature a live and silent auction and entertainment in a unique carnival atmosphere honoring those whose lives have been impacted by cancer. For more information e.givesmart.com/events/u4d/

AUGUST 26TH

The Howling 20s, Friends of Rescue Benefit Gala

CAMPUS NO. 805 | 5:00 PM

Celebrate hundreds of happily-ever-afters for cats and dogs in North Alabama. Join Friends of Rescue in your best and finest cocktail and black tie attire. For more information visit FORgala.net

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