Heathermoor Farm empowers young women one riding lesson at a time.
See who you said are Moody’s best retailers, restaurants, community events and more.
From the breezy coast to the tranquil lakes to the mighty falls, New York has a lot to explore outside its namesake city.
PHOTO BY KIM BASS
PHOTO BY LACEY BARNWELL
EDITORIAL
Michaela Bankston
Dave Domescik
Anna Grace Moore
Tyler Raley
Andrew Simonson
Noah Wortham
CONTRIBUTORS
Lacey Barnwell
Kim Bass
Tracy Frontz
Travis Frontz
Loyd McIntosh
Amanda Pritchard
Kate Seaver
DESIGN
Sydney Allen
Jamie Dawkins
Rowan Futrell
Connor Martin-Lively
MARKETING
Kelsey Alexander
Noah Brakefield
Evann Campbell
Octavia Campbell
Rachel Henderson
Rhett McCreight
Viridiana Romero
ADMINISTRATION
Mary Jo Eskridge
Alec Etheredge
Stacey Meadows
Lauren Morris
Kayla Reeves
Leslie Reeves
Brittany Schofield
Lacey Barnwell, Photographer
Lacey is the owner and photographer at LB Studios in Leeds. She is a wife and homeschooling mom of six children. Lacey has been doing photography since 2010 with an emphasis on wedding, portrait, newborn and family photography. She loves being involved in her community and offering her gifts and talents to those around her. Her clients often become some of her closest friends. To inquire about a booking, email contact@lbstudiosphotography.com; call or text 205-215-4385; or visit lbstudiosphotography.com
Kim Bass, Photographer
Kim is an amateur photographer from Birmingham. Although she has always enjoyed taking pictures, the pandemic gave her the opportunity to explore digital photography and build skills. Her other passion is history. Kim has a master’s degree in public history specializing in museum and archival studies. She is on the board of the Leeds Historical Society and has been able to utilize both her love for history and photography to help promote the Leeds Historical Society and Bass House Museum, which belonged to her great-great-grandparents.
Tracy and Travis Frontz, Photographers
Tracy and Travis are award-winning photographers with more than 75 years of combined experience, taking hundreds of thousands of images–with hundreds published–during that time. Though their business, Novel Photos, includes many types of photography, their focus is events, and they especially love shooting sports and performing arts. Tracy is also a published writer and is passionate about advocacy for invisible illnesses. They are learning sign language with the goal of becoming professional interpreters in the future. Go to NovelPhotos.com to learn more.
Loyd McIntosh, Writer
Loyd McIntosh is an award-winning writer and marketing professional with nearly 30 years of experience. Originally from Trussville, Loyd has contributed to more than 50 publications, covering a wide range of topics, including sports, food, the arts and business. He is also the co-host and producer of The Rough Draft: A Podcast About Writing. By day, he serves as the marketing manager for Automation Personnel Services, a staffing agency headquartered in Birmingham. Outside of work, he enjoys life in Pell City with his two daughters, Emily Grace and Lily.
Moody Living is published quarterly by Shelby County Newsmedia Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Moody Living is a registered trademark. All contents herein are the sole property of Shelby County Newsmedia Inc. [the Publisher]. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher. Please address all correspondence (including but not limited to letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to: Editor, Moody Living, P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051.
Moody Living is mailed to select households throughout Moody, and a limited number of free copies are available at local businesses. Please visit MoodyLivingMagazine.com for a list of those locations. Subscriptions are available at a rate of $14.95 plus tax for one year by visiting MoodyLivingMagazine.com or calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 532.
Advertising inquiries may be made by emailing
or by
(205) 669-3131, ext. 536.
FSummer is here, and that means so many different things. If you are like me and work during the summer, it essentially just means it is hotter outside, which I personally am OK with. For others, I hope you’re enjoying your break.
For the class of 2025, summer marks the end of a chapter of their life and the beginning of a new one. With these different beginnings, I imagine summer looks a little different for each of them.
In particular, Jayla Whitsey has wrapped up her time at Moody High School and looks to the fall when she will begin her career at Lawson State Community College. For that, I assume her training regimen, which you can read about on page 17, has not changed for the summer. Her determination and grit are taking her where she wants to go, and we can all learn from that.
Even if you did not just graduate, we are almost halfway through the calendar year, so I think it is an opportune time to look back and create your own beginning. For me, I have thoroughly enjoyed the past few months of getting to know Moody and putting together this first issue for you.
In this issue, in addition to Jayla’s story, you will find Heathermoor Farm (page 39), which is entering its busy season and can encourage everyone to spend some time outside. Anita Bice’s story offers creative inspiration on page 11, and for those dreaming of the beach, Wharf Casual Seafood is on page 25.
Of course, the results of our inaugural Moody’s Best contest are on page 45. Congratulations to those who won!
Whether you are busier than usual or taking a break, working hard or going on vacation, take advantage of the season; believe in yourself; and focus on what matters.
I look forward to continuing to get to know the people here that remind me of my hometown. Thank you for welcoming me and allowing me to tell some of your stories. I feel this is the beginning of a beautiful journey.
Hope you enjoy,
michaela@moodylivingmagazine.com
Record-breaking Moody High School basketball star Jayla Whitsey prepares for Lawson State in the fall.
Photo by Tracy and Travis Frontz Design by Connor Martin-Lively
Varsity and JV volleyball both begin their seasons in a tri-match with Pinson Valley at Mortimer Jordan. On Aug. 26, they have another tri-match with Gadsden City at Ashville. Finally, they play at home against Briarwood and Springville on Aug. 28. All tri-matches are Varsity and JV and begin at 4 p.m.
THE GUIDE
JULY 19
Watermelon Fest at the Farm
9 A.M.-5 P.M.
Howard Family Holiday Farm
Come out to Howard Family Holiday Farm for the first Watermelon Fest. Admission is free, and watermelon seed spitting and ice cream eating contests, arts and crafts vendors and food vendors will all be a part of the festivities. For more information, find them on Facebook (Howard Family Holiday Farm), or call 205-821-5212.
JULY 12
Thunder in the Park
6 P.M.
Moody City Park
The annual event is back and will kick off at 6 p.m. with a DJ, food trucks and bounce houses on the pavilion side of the park. Fireworks will begin at 9 p.m. Bring a lawn chair, and hang out for this family-friendly celebration.
Share your news and events! Email submissions to Michaela@MoodyLivingMagaxine.com to be considered for our next issue.
AROUND TOWN
FRIDAYS
Moody Farmers Market
Moody City Park
JUNE 2
411 Kids Foundation Interest Meeting
Raul’s Mexican Restaurant
JUNE 2-4
Volleyball Camp (9-12 years old)
Moody Civic Center
JUNE 5
Mr. Larry’s Kaleidoscope of Magic
Moody Civic Center
JUNE 5-6
Volleyball Camp (5-8 years old)
Moody Civic Center
JUNE 7
Youth Pickleball Clinic
St. Clair County Event Center & Gym
JUNE 9-11
Basketball Camp (9-12 years old)
Moody Civic Center
JUNE 12
Animal Show with Anniston Museum & Garden
Moody Civic Center
JUNE 12-13
Basketball Camp (5-8 years old)
Moody Civic Center
JUNE 16-18
Cheer Camp (5-12 years old)
Moody Civic Center
JUNE 23
Summer Horse Clinic
St. Clair County Arena
JUNE 26
The Science Lady’s The Color of Science
Moody Civic Center
JULY 4
S4C Barrel Racing
St. Clair County Arena
JULY 12
Thunder in the Park Moody City Park
JULY 14-18
Youth Theater Camp Moody Civic Center
JULY 18
Lamb Club Show
St. Clair County Arena
JULY 19
AFE Awareness Blood Drive
Moody High School Gymnasium
JULY 19
Watermelon Fest at the Farm Howard Family Holiday Farm
JULY 21-25
Youth Theater Camp Moody Civic Center
JULY 25-27
Summer Theater Camp Performances
Moody Civic Center
JUNE 27, JULY 25, AUG. 22
Motors on Main Downtown Leeds
AUG. 28
Varsity & JV Volleyball First Home Games vs. Briarwood & Springville Moody High School
AUG. 29
Varsity Football First Home Game vs. Oxford Bill Morris Stadium
AUG. 29-30
Broken Arrow Rodeo Productions
St. Clair County Arena
AUG. 21 & 29
Varsity Football
7 P.M.
Bill Morris Stadium
Football is back! The 411 boys open the season on the road in Gainseville, Georgia on Aug. 21. Their home opener is set for Aug. 29 against Oxford.
JULY 19
7th Annual AFE Awareness Blood Drive with LifeSouth
10 A.M.-6 P.M.
Moody High School Gymnasium
Long-time Moody residents, Nick and Katie Dawson first encountered AFE on July 23, 2018, during the birth of their second child, Cate. An Amniotic Fluid Embolism (AFE) is a rare and often fatal condition that occurs during child birth. Katie and Cate both survived in large part due to the blood products Katie received in the hospital. Each year since, they have hosted a blood drive to promote awareness of AFE and collect blood donations to help blood product supply needs at hospitals and medical facilities. Even if you cannot give, visitors are welcome, and Turner Shaved Ice will be available.
ARTS CULTURE&
AFFINITY FOR ART
Anita Bice follows her creativity wherever it takes her.
BY MICHAELA BANKSTON
PHOTOS BY LACEY BARNWELL
AAnita Bice sits in the corner of her home studio. A once-blank canvas rests before her. She outstretches her arm, brush in hand, so the bristles graze the surface to energize the charcoal pencil outline.
Her artistic journey began many years ago with five words—“has an affinity for art.”
Bice’s second grade teacher wrote those words on her report card, and she continues to hone her craft today.
“I just gravitated toward it,” she said.
She sat in her first art class in middle school. In high school, she chose to take a summer school class, so she could have a second period of art her senior year.
After graduation, Bice attended Samford University to study art and business.
“I thought, ‘I can’t just plan on being an artist,’” she recalled. “‘I’ve got to have something that I can fall back on if it doesn’t work.’”
Though she planned well, she could not foresee
the poor state of the economy and struggled to find a job after graduation. Graciously, her parents encouraged her to pursue art school if she desired.
Bice chose the Academy of Art College in Chicago because it was “geared more toward getting a job than just painting.” There she sharpened her fundamental skills and learned more advanced practices.
“I found that I had a knack for perspective, and I loved it, and most people hated it,” she said.
Bice’s aptitude for art and perspective led to an architectural illustrator job, creating visual representations to scale. Around that time, she got engaged to her long-distance boyfriend, Steve Bice.
The pair married, and Anita found Steve a job in Chicago through a connection at church. Although within the year, they began to seek jobs back in the Birmingham area.
A few years after moving back, the couple had
their first child, and Anita decided the flexibility of a freelance career better suited her. All in all, she has worked in architectural illustration for more than three decades.
Due to the ebb and flow of freelance work, Anita began teaching classes and dabbling in painting whatever she fancied.
“With the architectural, I had to be very, very careful that I am painting the architect’s vision, not what I want to paint,” she said.
With that freedom, Anita has painted a plethora of animals, sea creatures and birds. She has also painted several pots and pans, florals and landscapes.
“They say you’re supposed to stay in a niche,” Anita said. “I can’t do it. It’s whatever wants to be painted the most today.”
Regardless of the vision, Anita starts by creating a preliminary depiction on the computer. She uses Photoshop to design custom brushes to accurately
portray different brush and pen strokes.
“If I’d been born any later, I probably would have been a computer science something because I love the computer,” she said. “I’m a nerd.”
Once the Photoshop version is complete, Anita adds a grid and places her tablet next to a canvas with nothing but tick marks to indicate the beginning of each gridline. From there she sketches an outline with exquisite precision she garnered through her architectural experience.
Anita said she still enjoys the technical aspect but appreciates the ability to be more creative than she could with architectural drawings.
Her architectural involvement has also influenced her use of acrylic paints.
“A lot of people say they look like oil, but because of my commercial background, I always had a deadline,” she said. “I work quick, and I couldn’t wait on the oils to dry.”
Eighteen years later, Anita is still painting, and
I’m so happy doing what I’m doing, and I don’t ever run out of ideas.
-Anita Bice
her fine art has become a full-time business that requires help. She did not have to look very far though.
After graduating high school, Dana Bice began helping her mom in the studio.
One task Dana helps with is scanning the paintings to print out. Those are printed on fine art paper, but many prints evolve further into wood panels or coasters—two items Steve now works on.
Once the print is affixed to the painted panel, they apply a mix of modeling paste and paint to give the piece texture.
“I didn’t want to just say I just slapped a print on
a piece of wood,” Anita said. “I wanted it to look very unique.”
For the coasters, all three have their own job. After Dana prints a much smaller version of Anita’s painting, Steve attaches it to the blank and seals it with Mod Podge to prevent bubbling.
Once those dry, Anita and Steve work together to apply a resin coating. After a year of trial and error, they found the resin perfect to resist heat and keep mugs from sticking, but they were having to throw some out before it hardened.
From that, Anita further diversified her mediums and began pouring the remaining resin into molds. Once hard, she paints the resin ornaments and
On Vacation
Finlay Donovan is Killing It
By Elle Cosimano | Mystery
Review by Callie Jo
Eastis
The Doris Stanley Memorial Library staff has a combined experience of more than 25 years working in libraries. Sara Roberts, library director, has worked at Moody for about three and a half years and has seven years of prior library experience. Callie Jo Eastis and Shannon McCrary, both library assistants, have worked at the library for almost three years. Gwen Rollins, library assistant, has worked here for a year and a half and has seven and a half years of prior library experience. Here, they each recommend their choice read for vacation this summer.
In this hilarious murder mystery with a touch of romance, Elle Cosimano introduces Finlay Donovan, a 31-yearold, newly-single mom and author, who is struggling big time. Her ex-husband is dealing her fits; she lost her nanny; she’s broke; her 4-year-old just found the scissors; and it isn’t even lunch. A case of mistaken identity leads to accidently being hired as a hitwoman. This twisting plot kept me laughing as one disastrous decision after another leads Finlay and Vero, her re-employed nanny, on a journey to solve her hit’s murder and hopefully stay out of jail.
A Duke for Diana
By Sabrina Jeffries | Romance
Review by Shannon McCrary
This classic, historical romance has a bit of mystery and an interesting twist. Diana and her two sisters endured scandal from their parents’ divorce, so they started a business to help ladies navigate the marriage market in London. Their latest protégé’s brother, Geoffrey, has unexpectedly inherited a dukedom. Sparks start to fly between Diana and Geoffrey, but will a secret from his past be too much for them to overcome? I loved the atypical Duke, and Diana is spunky and defies the traditions of the day by becoming a female business owner. This is the first book in the “Designing Debutantes” series, and the following books delve into the romantic entanglements of the sisters.
The Spellshop
By Sarah Beth Durst | Fantasy
Review by Sara Roberts
In “The Spellshop,” librarian Kiela flees a warzone with her best/only friend, a sentient spider plant named Caz. They are carrying only a few crates of rescued spellbooks and what she can fit in a borrowed library boat. They make their way to an outlying island and experiment with illegal magic to improve the lives of their newfound community. This cozy fantasy is a great choice for a feel-good, vacation read. It has compelling world-building and characters you can feel good about cheering for. The relationships Kiela makes and develops throughout the book kept me thinking after I closed the cover, and I’m looking forward to the sequel, coming out in July.
I Think I Was Murdered
By Colleen Coble | Thriller
Review by Gwen Rollins
In this thriller, the reader will find a story as intriguing as the title suggests! Following her husband’s death, grief-stricken Katrina Berg turns to an AI chatbot prototype to “keep him alive” by uploading every piece of available data from his social media accounts, photos, emails and text messages. As she continues “talking” to her late husband via the chatbot, she begins to suspect that his death was not the tragic accident it was believed to be. When she digs deeper into the events surrounding his death, the reader is taken on a chilling journey of discovery about greed, loss and the ethical implications of future technology.
SCHOOL SPORTS&
BEYOND THE COURT
Moody star Jayla Whitsey’s drive and faith fuel her basketball dreams.
BY LOYD MCINTOSH
PHOTOS BY TRACY AND TRAVIS FRONTZ
FFor Jayla Whitsey, basketball is more than a sport. It’s a passion. Even as her senior season faded into the past, the Moody High School phenom still spent several hours every day before and after school, sweating, grinding, dribbling and shooting, before waking up early the next morning to start the process all over again.
Honestly, simply listening to her relate the details of her training regimen can make any reasonably-fit adult exhausted. However, Whitsey understands the hard work will pay off as she prepares for her freshman year with the Lawson State Community College women’s basketball team.
“At 6, before school, I lift weights. I get out of school at 2, so around 2:15, I go to the gym and try to get about an hour and a half in,” Whitsey explained.
Each day of the week is devoted to specific skills or concepts. For instance, on Tuesdays, Whitsey works on specific moves such as a crossover dribble
or hesitation move—a slight pause while dribbling, luring a defensive player to change direction, setting up the ball handler for an open shot.
Wednesdays and Saturdays are typically set aside for shooting, while the remaining days vary.
“Whatever I’m feeling like I need to work on but also trying to make sure that I’m playing as often as I can,” she said. “Playing with the guys, playing with any other girls that I can find.”
At night, Whitsey works through a speed, agility and flexibility training regimen developed by her father and around 30 minutes of ball-handling exercises. Whitsey finishes her day by wearing Normatec compression therapy devices to massage aching muscles and aid in recovery, all to be ready to put on the Lawson State jersey later this year.
“I’m training every single day,” Whitsey said. “I’m trying to make sure that when I go to Birmingham in August that I am the best player that I can be at that moment.”
Whitsey is an incredibly well-rounded young woman with a GPA well above 4.0, an ACT score of 27 and an active life in her community and church. However, it’s fair to say that Whitsey’s life primarily revolves around basketball, ironic considering her father, a basketball player himself, did not want her to play the sport.
Whitsey said she idolized her dad and would often watch him play in men’s league games, deciding at an early age she wanted to play too. So, displaying the tenacious attitude that makes her a menace to defenses on the court, Whitsey wore her father down until he waved the white flag.
“I just begged him enough that when I was 7 years old, he eventually let me play basketball,” Whitsey
recalled. “So, that was my first year playing, and I’ve played ever since.”
During her first few years, Whitsey played on teams with boys, admitting, “I wasn’t really that good. I was just kind of out there.” Her father pushed the community to create girls-only teams, and before long, Whitsey’s talent became undeniable.
Whitsey spent the first two years of high school at St. Clair County High School in Odenville and was by far the best player on a bad team. After transferring to Moody for her junior year, 2023-24, Whitsey came into her own, amassing an array of personal and team awards, including several AllArea and All-County accolades. She helped lead
Moody to a St. Clair County championship in 2025 and led Moody to the Sweet 16 in the 2024 Alabama High School Athletic Association playoffs for the first time in more than 20 years.
She is also the only Moody basketball player, boy or girl, to score 1,500 points in her high school career. However, Moody Girls Basketball Head Coach Rebecca Davis said it was not just Whitsey’s physical talents that impressed her, but her character as well.
“She is a wonderful human being,” Davis said. “She’s going to be where she’s supposed to be, doing what she’s supposed to be doing all the
time without somebody having to watch over her or without somebody having to make her do the right thing.”
Davis said that Whitsey is one of those athletes who leads by example. She is the first one in the gym before practice, the last one to leave after practice and always offering words of encouragement to her teammates. Still, what has impressed Davis the most is Whitsey’s knowledge of the game.
“Her basketball IQ separates her from so many. She understands spacing and the flooring of the game, and she studies the game. That’s important
happens Amazing
When people with extraordinary talent and passion are given the technology, the facilities, and the support, they achieve great things. The discoveries and innovations happening today will help shape the future of treatments and lead to cures. And it benefits not only the patients and families who come to Children’s of Alabama, but people across the country and around the world for years to come.
to her,” Davis said. “That is not something that’s very common in high school girls.”
For example, Davis said most high school girls basketball players are not terribly interested in studying game film or understanding the sport on a procedural level. However, Davis said her team captain approaches game preparation like a coach, analyzing her opponent’s tendencies and weaknesses and offering potential strategies. She said these attributes will make Whitsey an asset at Lawson State.
“She is so intelligent that she understands that that aspect really can make the difference,” Davis said. “She would go on her own and live scout teams and take notes. This is a kid who would have one night a week off, and she spent that one night a week going to scout other people because it was important to her.” Davis said. “She felt like seeing them in person, seeing them live, was an advantage to her. [Lawson State] has no idea how much they’ve knocked it out of the park with her.”
Childrens AL •org
DOWNTOWN MAIN CAMPUS
1600 7TH AVENUE SOUTH
BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233
We are here in your neighborhood at Vestavia Pediatrics. Call 205-978-3200 to schedule an appointment.
Whitsey credits her coaches, teammates and most importantly, God, for her success. As she moves on to the next level, she hopes her life on and off the basketball court can serve as an inspiration and testimony to others.
“That’s the main goal in life: to please God and to be the best person that He called me to be and to be more and more like Him every single day,” Whitsey added. “Being a good teammate, being a role model and everything that’s part of who He’s called me to be, impacting the lives of people in a positive way. Basketball is just a part of it.”
To keep up with Whitsey as she moves on to the next phase of her basketball career, follow her on X (@WhitseyJayla).
FIVE QUESTIONS FOR
Tanner Barfield Moody High School Honor Graduate
PHOTO CONTRIBUTED
Tanner Barfield has attended Moody Schools his entire life. During his senior year, he served as the senior class secretary, a Moody Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassador and was a part of the MHS Leadership Team. He has coached youth flag football for the past two years and been a part of the Moody basketball program since his freshman year. He plans to attend Auburn University, majoring in biomedical sciences on the pre-dental track.
What has your experience been like at Moody High School and with St. Clair County Schools?
My experience at Moody High School has been better than I could have imagined, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. I believe that the St. Clair County School System has provided me with a quality education and my teachers, counselors, administrators and peers have contributed to this.
How do you feel Moody High School has prepared you for the next stage of your life?
Moody High School has given me numerous opportunities to learn and display leadership skills, which I think are a crucial characteristic that I can utilize in the next stage of my life. This school has also allowed me to develop meaningful
relationships throughout the community that I can carry into my college and professional career.
What is your favorite memory of the last four years at Moody High School?
My favorite memory from my high school career was when we won Color Wars my junior year. Color Wars is a class competition during homecoming week to see which class is the best all around. The senior class usually wins the games every year, but our class was only the second ever to win as juniors and eventually become back-to-back winners. This win provided our class with a sense of unity and joy that will not be forgotten.
Who is your favorite teacher and why?
My favorite teacher is Dr. Hood. He was
my AP Chemistry teacher, and I was in his class for two years. While in his class, he challenged me and taught me the importance of hard work. His motto is that “There is value in the struggle.” This saying will stick with me forever.
What advice would you give to those entering high school in the coming months?
For those entering high school soon, I challenge you to be as involved as you can. Whether that be supporting the sports teams in the student section or joining different clubs, this will ensure that you make the most of your high school experience. Trusting your teachers will help you succeed academically and make lasting relationships. Lastly, it is important to maximize these four years because it goes by quickly.
Haley Forester Moody High School Honor Graduate
Haley Forester has attended Moody schools since sixth grade. During her senior year, she was involved in Beta Club, Key Club, Sigma Delta Phi, Mu Alpha Theta, English Honor’s Society, varsity volleyball and varsity softball. She will attend Freed-Hardeman University on a volleyball scholarship to pursue a degree in biomedical sciences.
What has your experience been like at Moody High School and with St. Clair County Schools?
My experience at Moody High School has given me a sense of belonging. The community always supports the students at Moody High School by providing multiple opportunities in sports, academics and fine arts. I have been shaped into the person I am today because of the education and memories I have from being a Blue Devil.
How do you feel Moody High School has prepared you for the next stage of your life?
Moody High School has fully prepared me to be able to succeed in college and transition into a profession afterwards. Seniors at Moody High School participate in a senior interview where employers from real jobs give the students fake interviews. This experience gave me the
opportunity to get in-person training in how to prepare for an interview and how to respond with answers on the spot.
What is your favorite memory of the last four years at Moody High School?
My favorite memory at Moody High School has been the development of 411 Day over the past two years. 411 Day has given little kids the chance to interact with the older kids they look up to. One of my favorite parts of 411 Day this year was the glow party we had at the elementary school. We got to dance with all of the little kids, which brought a lot of joy to everyone involved.
Who is your favorite teacher and why?
My favorite teacher at Moody is Mrs. Crowe at the junior high. I had her for science my seventh and eighth grade years. She was one of the most exciting teachers I have ever had. She taught us by sharing
stories, which not only taught students but kept them engaged. She is also someone who has always believed in me, not only academically, but also in sports. Mrs. Crowe is one of the most encouraging people you will ever meet, and you will never fail to see the love she gives to everyone.
What advice would you give to those entering high school in the coming months?
My advice to upcoming high schoolers is do not take the time you have for granted. Everyone says that time flies by in high school, but you will not believe it at first. I thought freshman year felt like four years itself until now, where I feel like my senior year has flown by. Take the time to enjoy all of the fun activities that come along with being in high school. Remember, God has a plan for you even if it is not the plan you may have imagined.
FOOD DRINK&
COASTAL CALLING
Wharf Casual Seafood brings a piece of the coast to Moody.
BY MICHAELA BANKSTON
PHOTOS BY AMANDA PRITCHARD
CCool blue and gray enwrap the outside of Wharf Casual Seafood. Inside, reclaimed wood and sheet metal combine to compose the walls adorned with fish and life ring decor. String lights hang from the ceiling confirming the festive atmosphere.
A smiling face stands behind the counter. Wooden tabletops and red booths await after placing an order, but drink machines are not seen in the dining room.
“Once you place that order and then have a seat, you’re gonna realize that it really turns into full service without the expense of full service,” Noah Griggs, CEO and co-owner, said.
The fast-casual-turned-full-service concept was born out of financial necessity, while maintaining quality service, but that was not the first time the people behind Wharf Casual Seafood had to pivot.
THE BEGINNING
When Early and Eva Duggar married, he joined her family’s fourth generation fishing business. They eventually took what they had learned and started their own wholesale seafood business, which became one of the most successful in the world— until three hurricanes caused a massive decline in sea life.
With that, they relied on their seafood and business knowledge to open The Wharf Seafood restaurant in 1986. The fine dining establishment saw much success, and after growing up in the business, the Duggars’ son, Stephen Duggar, now Executive Chef and co-owner, decided to go to culinary school. Then 2008 hit.
Stephen described a gradual decline in sales, starting with desserts, then appetizers and the return to appetizers, but as meals, over about two years. Once again, the Duggars refused to fail and transitioned to Wharf Causal Seafood, which Griggs described as “a better value.”
A handful of years later, Early was diagnosed with a brain tumor, and the couple needed to bring someone else on to help continue the business. An introduction from a commercial realtor later, and Griggs, who had already spent decades in the restaurant industry, joined the team in 2015.
“[Early] could buy the seafood; Stephen knew how to prepare it,” Griggs said. “My experience was such that I knew operations, finance, how to make money and how to serve guests, so it was a perfect partnership.”
That partnership lasted five years until Early passed away. Since then, Griggs and Stephen have worked together to expand and maintain Wharf
Casual Seafood.
“I’m very good at what I do. He’s very good at what he does,” Stephen said. “I don’t want to do what he does. He doesn’t want to do what I do, so we work together very well.”
MOODY
When Griggs joined Wharf Causal Seafood, they had three restaurants, all in Florida. Since then, they have launched eight more—one in Georgia and seven in the Alabama native’s home state.
The Moody location opened last July, and Griggs and Stephen have both grown fond of the area. Stephen said it is the “strong sense of community” they like so much about Moody.
“Not only is it a great community, but I was shocked to see you’ve got so many that come in from elsewhere,” Griggs said.
Compared to their other restaurants, the Moody
Sometimes we have to start over, and that’s exactly what they did.
-Noah Griggs
location is the largest and has a prominent location easy to see from the interstate, which draws in guests from surrounding locations.
It features a full bar, which Griggs said will continue with future locations under one condition.
“It’s always gonna be a family setting, but if somebody wants to sit at the bar or compliment their meal with a glass of wine, we’re the perfect setting,” he said.
Overall, the environment is fun, festive and casual enough for lunch, any night of the week or anytime someone wishes they were at the beach.
AMERICAN SEAFOOD
As executive chef, Stephen has curated an exquisite menu with a variety of options while staying simple enough to ensure quality across the board. He described the food as “Southern coastal cuisine.”
That blend begins with the appetizers, which range from chargrilled oysters and crab claws to loaded fried green tomatoes and mushrooms. Moving along, Stephen has put his spin on Southern classics, including gumbo, shrimp and grits and red beans and rice. (His contains shrimp.)
More lighter lunch options include an assortment of tacos, sandwiches and po’boys.
Seafood entrees include several fish options, oysters, crab cakes and of course, their best-selling shrimp. Not in the mood for seafood? There is still more to Wharf Casual Seafood’s vast menu.
“If you want a steak and a baked potato, you can get that. If you want honey pecan chicken or a salad or a burger, because you’re not a seafood person, there’s good variety,” Griggs said.
While all the food looks amazing and tastes delicious, perhaps even more important is where it comes from.
“Stephen has been adamant about serving U.S.
domestic seafood,” Griggs said. “It is not just about the quality, but it’s about helping the American fisherman.”
Stephen referenced the importance of his roots that drives his decision to serve around 95 percent domestic seafood.
As for the items they do import, Griggs had a straightforward answer.
“There are a few products out there that are better elsewhere,” he said.
As an example, he said crab legs are a cold water product, so they typically import those from Canada.
NATIONAL BRAIN TUMOR SOCIETY
Another important aspect of the restaurant is their commitment to raising funds in support of the
National Brain Tumor Society. Griggs said after he joined the team in light of Early’s diagnosis, his father and longtime career mentor were also diagnosed with brain tumors.
“We realized very quickly that we were going to support the brain tumor society,” Griggs elaborated.
They do that via two fundraisers each year: one in May, Brain Tumor Awareness Month, and another in September, Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. They also attend the National Brain Tumor Society’s Georgia Brain Tumor Walk & Race each year where they present the Georgia Courage Award.
“We give this award to somebody else in the brain tumor community on behalf of Early who has done something amazing,” Carli Burt, director of marketing, said.
She said last year’s award went to a preteen boy who raised thousands of dollars for the National
Brain Tumor Society after losing his mom to brain cancer.
For Stephen, the cause is especially personal, and he praised the National Brain Tumor Society for the work they do. He also said he thinks his dad would agree.
“My dad would be very happy with what Noah
(Griggs) has done,” Stephen said.
CHEF PICKS
Wharf Causal Seafood is located at 2023 Village Drive in Moody. It is open SundayThursday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. For more information or to place an order, call 205-352-3223 or visit wharfcasualseafood.com.
FIVE QUESTIONS FOR
Phillip Farrior
Director of Operations at Wharf Casual Seafood
PHOTO BY AMANDA PRITCHARD
Phillip Farrior is 39 years old and has been married to his wife, Jennifer, for 16 years. They have a 6-year-old daughter, a 4-year-old son and three dogs. He enjoys hunting and woodworking. He has been with the Wharf for three years, starting as the general manager of their flagship location in Wetumpka. Farrior was promoted to director in December 2023. He currently oversees six locations, which include six general managers, six assistant managers and roughly 150 team members. He and his phenomenal team help manage approximately $7 million in revenue each year.
How did you get your start in the food industry?
Outback Steakhouse was my first venture in the restaurant business, where I got bitten by the bug. I started there as a grill cook and was made kitchen manager by age 23 and managing partner (general manager) by age 26.
What has been your favorite part of your job?
I thoroughly enjoy sending out goodlooking food and providing a clean restaurant. A lot of that, I think, comes from my upbringing in the industry, primarily in the back of the house, tied with lessons from my mentor, Brent Brown. Another one of my favorite things about my job is being able to develop people. Promoting from within has always been a good tactic in business but even more so when you are developing a brand from the beginning. People are
our greatest asset, our best investment and our forefront to providing great service for our guests. Being able to be a part of that process–watching a team member develop into a shift leader or a shift leader into a manager–and providing someone with tangible knowledge and skills they can use, not only for our restaurants but in life as well, is rewarding in itself.
How have you enjoyed serving the community of Moody?
We have gotten to support the local football team on a couple of occasions, so that was fun! The Moody clientele has been awesome to serve, and we look forward to doing it for many years to come.
What is the best meal at Wharf Casual Seafood?
Red Beans and Rice with Shrimp and
Conecuh Sausage or the Wharf Shrimp Tacos. Very tough choice between the two.
As the brand continues to grow, what can guests look forward to in the future?
Aside from just the expansion where we will have more locations in closer proximity to our guests, we are looking at elevating and expanding our bars in our new locations. We also do limited-time offers, which in the past, have included lobster rolls and lobster grilled cheeses, Ahi Tuna dip, pompano, snapper and many more. At the end of the day, they can always look forward to a unique guest experience that ties full service in with fast food to create a timely, hot, authentically-prepared plate backed by our mission to provide the highest level of guest quality service with a commitment to continuous improvement.
HOME STYLE&
MEET THE MCLAUGHLINS
Paul and Shelley McLaughlin value time spent with their children at the ballpark and their home.
BY MICHAELA BANKSTON
PHOTOS BY LACEY BARNWELL
Face of the Home
When the McLaughlins moved in, their house was red brick. They painted it white, giving the house a total refresh with the contrast of the darker roof.
PPaul and Shelley McLaughlin have known each other their entire lives but did not truly connect until 2009. Shelley had just moved back to the area, and in an effort to connect with people here, she reached out to Paul after seeing he had plans to go out in Birmingham. The two ended up riding together, but he insisted it was not a date.
“So we went out that night, and we’ve been together ever since on the ‘It’s not a date,’ date,” Shelley said.
Fast forward to 2012, the couple married and bought a house across the bridge. Once they began having children, the couple knew they wanted to move to Moody, Paul’s alma mater, before JP, now 12, and Lilah, now 10, began school.
After a Facebook post about needing to find a home quickly as theirs was under contract, the McLaughlins went to see a home, put a contract on it and “have been making it our own over the past almost nine years,” Shelley said.
There is some irony in that statement considering the couple also admitted they have quite different tastes in home style.
“He likes modern contemporary, and I just like anything that looks clean,” Shelley said.
While the couple sought middle ground, Shelley also found a silver lining in Paul traveling a week or two out of the month for work.
“Especially when we first moved in, he would travel, and he would come back, and something was painted,” Shelley said.
Over time Paul has grown used to the packages showing up at their door or new fixtures appearing in the house. Still, Shelley makes an effort to pick out some items he would like, and they agree on larger pieces.
Throughout the house, there are touches of modern elements and pops of color that give the house some personality without cluttering the place. That compromise gives everyone something to love about their home.
Dining Room
The dining room is tucked off from the rest of the more open downstairs. That and its darker walls give it a more elegant feel.
Entryway
These stately doors were picked out by the McLaughlins and provide a distinguished entry to the rest of their home.
Kitchen
The dual-sided kitchen has many cabinets and plenty of counter space while maintaining plenty of room in between to move around.
Living Room
Between baseball, basketball, competitive cheer, softball and pageants, the McLaughlins spend a lot of time out of the house. When they are home, Shelley appreciates time spent together in the living room.
Breakfast Nook
The kitchen opens up to the breakfast nook, where the family gathers to eat dinner when they are not out at the kids’ events.
Lilah’s Room
This fashionable space centers around an ornate bedframe. The additions of pastel pink and personalized touches round out Lilah’s favorite room in the house.
Master Bedroom
The wall of windows with sheer white curtains allow plenty of light in during the day, but the otherwise darker-toned bedroom imparts a serene place to rest at night.
Master Bath
The master bath features both a walk-in shower and freestanding tub. On the other side, the double vanity is connected by an extra storage cabinet with a mirrored front that is perfect for Shelley to do Lilah’s hair.
Guest Bedroom
Most of the furniture in the guest bedroom came from Shelley’s dad’s house or other family members, giving the antiques a personal touch. This room also doubles as Shelley’s crafting space.
JP’s Room
JP’s room exemplifies two of his favorite things, Pokémon and baseball. However, his choice feature is the LED lights that wrap the perimeter.
Horse Power
Heathermoor Farm empowers young women one riding lesson at a time.
BY MICHAELA BANKSTON
PHOTOS BY KIM BASS
WWhat do ballet and horse riding have in common?
Their graceful nature. The strength of their athletes. The chances of young girls taking a lesson.
As a child, Jennifer Fernambucq attended ballet classes with a friend who took riding lessons at Heathermoor Farm. At 10 years old, the friend invited her to join a lesson. Subsequently, she quit ballet and began riding lessons.
“I always had loved horses, and then once I took a riding lesson I was like, ‘Well, that’s it,’” Fernambucq said.
Eleven years later, she received a call from an instructor at Heathermoor in need of a part-time instructor. She had just quit her job after having a baby, so she agreed. In 1999 Heathermoor’s owner wanted to retire, and Fernambucq purchased the farm.
“I never got the horse bug out of my system,”
Fernambucq said.
Heathermoor offers English Saddle Seat riding lessons. Compared to other types of horse riding, saddle seat focuses on graceful riding of athletic animals. At Heathermoor they specialize in American Saddlebreds, which Fernambucq described as “very animated and social and just beautiful.”
“[If you] want to learn how to ride, that’s what we do; we teach lessons,” Fernambucq said. “And then if you want to keep riding and learn to show and compete, we do that as well.”
They teach lessons for all levels and ages starting at 5 years old. Currently the oldest student is around 70.
“We want to facilitate people that want to be around horses, period,” Fernambucq said.
For those who have never been on a horse, Brittany Campbell teaches beginner lessons, but her Heathermoor journey began years before as a
There’s nothing better than horses.
-Jennifer
Fernambucq
7-year-old student of Fernambucq’s. Campbell said she tried to do other things but could never get horses out of her mind. After attaining a degree in graphic design, beginning a career in banking and a few years as a part-time instructor, she transitioned to full-time instructor at Heathermoor.
“I get something very big from the horses,” Campbell said. “Just touching them, seeing them taking care of them is soothing to me. I like sharing that with the kids.”
After riding for six months to a year, if someone wants to try out competing, Fernambucq teaches more advanced lessons. Unlike some other places, you do not have to buy a horse to compete with Heathermoor, which she said has advantages.
“We have so many horses, and you learn from a variety of horses, not just one,” Fernambucq said. “So each horse has something to teach you.”
Fernambucq said there is no pressure to move
beyond casual riding, but “a lot of kids do want to show and compete.” She elaborated that many of them are shy or may not like team sports, but horse shows give them an opportunity to tap into their competitive spirit.
While she and Campbell teach lessons, Fernambucq’s husband, Richie Fernambucq, trains and exercises other people’s show horses.
“Our horses are super high strung; they’re athletes,” Richie said. “So, if they just stand around in the stall for three or four days, and the customer decides to come ride them, the horse isn’t gonna stop until it hits Pell City. Our job is to make sure that these horses are prepared and ready for their riders when they come.”
Richie also started riding as a child. He attended a summer camp because he “thought it’d be fun.” After a brief stint working in his dad’s office several years later, he said it was clear to everyone he needed to be outside. He worked at a
few barns in other states before Heathermoor.
“It’s all I’ve ever known,” Richie said.
The Fernambucqs married 15 years ago and rely on each other’s strengths to create the best opportunities for anyone looking to take lessons or compete through Heathermoor.
“He’s a much better horse trainer than me, and I’m a much better teacher than him, so that way we’re a really good team,” Jennifer said.
Eight years ago, the couple ceased leasing the original location and built their current space in Moody, which is created specifically for everything they do. In addition to the outdoor riding space, there is a smaller arena that not only offers protection from the elements but is more controlled for beginner lessons. Those lessons start with all the basic concepts and safety procedures.
“You’re not just going to get on, and we’re not going to turn you loose,” Jennifer said. “It’s very, very safe.”
The front half of the building contains several
tables allowing summer camp students to eat lunch and do crafts in an air-conditioned space they did not previously have. Jennifer encourages summer camp for kids that want to try it out and learn the basics, but they also offer more advanced camps for those who have already started riding.
Whether attending summer camp or lessons, Jennifer said their students are mostly female, and one of them is her own daughter.
“With all of the things the kids are exposed to today, there’s nothing better than getting back to horses and riding,” Jennifer said. “It’s natural, and it’s outside, and it’s healthy, physically and mentally.”
Another one of those girls, Caroline Salsman, started taking lessons in January 2020 before attending summer camp later that year.
“She was supposed to go to a sleep-away camp that summer that got canceled because of COVID and ended up coming here, and she’s never done anything else,” Kate Salsman, Caroline’s mother, said.
As to why Caroline has stuck with it, her mom said Heathermoor is her happy place now.
“It’s like a breath of fresh air. I go to school, and then I get to come here, and it makes everything better,” Caroline said.
However, that has not always been the case. Caroline received her first lessons as a Christmas present and was quite apprehensive to begin.
“She wouldn’t even step in the horse’s stalls when she first started riding here. She was so afraid,” Kate said. “Her confidence has grown tremendously in all avenues of life, not just here.”
That situation is not unique to Caroline.
“For a young girl coming up, to learn how to ride a thousand pound horse is very empowering, and it teaches a lot of discipline,” Jennifer said.
As for Jennifer, who started riding as one of those young girls, she has found her calling in showing others their inner power through horse riding.
“Equipping kids to have that kind of confidence and to be able to compete and learn to navigate a thousand pound animal, that’s pretty satisfying,” Jennifer said.
Heathermoor Farm is located at 2575 Carl Jones Road in Moody. It is open Tuesday-Friday, 8 a.m.7 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information or to sign up for lessons, call Jennifer Fernambucq at 205-999-3256 or Brittany Campbell at 205-807-0423.
MOODY’S BEST WINNERS 2025
Who’s the best? We asked, and you answered. Thousands of votes were cast in our inaugural Moody’s Best contest. Read on to find out our readers’ favorites in Moody.
Photos by Michaela Banskton & Contributed
Jean’s Flowers
BEST PUBLIC SCHOOL
Moody Elementary School
COMMUNITY
BEST LOCAL CAUSE
411 Kids Foundation facebook.com (411 Kids Foundation) 205-451-7769
Runner Up: Backpack Buddies
BEST LOCAL FESTIVAL Oktoberfest facebook.com/oktoberfestmoody
Runner Up: Oh Sherri Pub’s St. Patrick’s Day Celebration
A&C Auto & Trailer Sales acautodeals.com 205-898-3598
Runner Up: Moody Motors
Outside the City
Exploring New York State
Looking to escape the heat of an Alabama summer? Wanting to get away from the tourists crowding the Florida beaches? Consider heading up north to the quiet atmosphere of New York State. From the breezy coast to the tranquil lakes to the mighty falls, New York has a lot to explore outside the city.
By Kate Seaver | Photos by Discover Long Island, Niagara Falls Canada, Niagara Falls USA, Visit Finger Lakes & Contributed by Inlet Seafood Dock & Restaurant (Facebook)
NIAGARA FALLS
The unofficial “eighth wonder of the world,” Niagara Falls provides a cool escape from the typical southern summer. Renowned for its beauty, it pushes more than 2,000 tons of water over the falls every second. Carve out time during your vacation to explore the falls’ natural serenity and enjoy the breezy summer weather.
WHERE TO STAY
Stay in the famous Oakes Hotel Overlooking the Falls to see the view from your bedroom window. You’ll see the unobstructed vantage point when you open your eyes in the morning! On the Canadian side, Old Stone Inn is a historic, boutique hotel with dining options ranging from cabins to domes, so you can eat in a cozy, rustic atmosphere. The Inn has a wine bar open Thursday through Sunday and also has a dog-friendly policy.
Old Stone Inn
WHAT TO DO
For your daytime excursions, make sure to hit the Maid of the Mist boat tours to see the falls from down in the water! Descend into the gorge, and feel the mist on your skin from the wooden walkways with the Cave of the Winds experience. Another popular attraction is the Seneca Niagara Casino with popular live entertainment. Less than a 30 minute-drive away, the city of Buffalo has more dining options and urban activities.
Make sure to bring your passports to see the view from the Canadian side, too! In Ontario, Niagara Falls offers more hot spots such as Skylon Tower Revolving Restaurant, Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens and WildPlay Zipline to the Falls.
WHERE TO EAT
The Top of the Falls restaurant is the only local dining spot where you can take in the sights while enjoying dinner! This restaurant serves locally-made food and beverages rich in modern American cuisine alongside several classic dishes.
THE FINGER LAKES
While touring your way through the beautiful state of New York, catch some R&R at the tranquil Finger Lakes. Located a few hours east of Niagara Falls, you’ll find this region is known for its ample wineries and vineyards, sporting beautiful outdoor views. The Finger Lakes, referred to locally as FLX, have mild summers with daily temperatures reaching a balmy 70-to-80 degrees Fahrenheit, cooling down in the evenings.
WHERE TO STAY
The area around these glacial lakes is full of historic inns and bed-and-breakfasts that will transport you to the earlier days of the United States. A few popular selections include William Smith Inn—a B&B in the home that once belonged to historical figure William Smith. The Lake House on Canandaigua is a lakefront resort featuring multiple, luxury restaurants and lake-facing balconies that feel like grandma’s front porch. Geneva on the Lake, a stately villa built in the style of Italian Renaissance architecture, hosts multiple restaurants of its own and is a short drive from Geneva’s historic district. Belhurst Castle, built between 1885-1889, has it all: a riveting history, a winery, fine dining and a salon with a spa.
WHAT TO DO
Activities common for this region are equally easygoing. Stroll along the waterfront walking path at Seneca Lake State Park, or get into the lakes via kayak for an easy trip riding the current. Rent a pontoon for a day with Finger Lakes Boat Rentals, or set off kayaking or paddleboarding with Seneca Lake Kayak. Cruise along the Canandaigua Lady, a paddlewheel steamboat offering lake tours and meals from May through October each year.
Of course, a visit to the largest wine region in New York would be incomplete without a tasting and a visit to a vineyard! Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail features seven different wineries. Purchase the digital passport for perks and discounts at the different locations on the trail.
Pay a visit to Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery, which is located in a historic home overlooking Keuka Lake, and celebrate the pioneer of the Finger Lakes wine industry. Red Newt Cellars hosts a hearty, sit-down lunch on the weekends to pair with your tasting. Buttonwood Grove Winery features live music on the porch on Saturdays during the summer and even has on-site cabins for an overnight stay.
WHERE TO EAT
Get out and see more of the region—have dinner at F.L.X. Table for an intimate dinner party atmosphere. Named “Best New Restaurant” in the nation by “USA Today” in 2017, this restaurant is reservation-only, and the bookings are released two months in advance.
Roots Cafe features live music at its farm-to-table restaurant. Reservations here are highly recommended, and they serve meals for lunch and dinner Thursday through Saturday, as well as Sunday brunch.
Belhurst Castle
MONTAUK
Known as the quieter, more authentic side of the Hamptons, Montauk provides a laidback, coastal experience that really embodies what it means to “vacation.” Visit this charming hamlet for the smalltown atmosphere, and enjoy the slow, luxurious life of the East Coast.
WHERE TO STAY
For a European feel, stay in the stately Montauk Manor. This historic, castle-like accommodation creates an experience like no other. This hotel offers full amenities including sunset yoga on the lawn and tennis courts.
The classic Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa offers oceanfront rooms and amenities including a private beach, spa and bathhouse. Choose between rooms, cottages and residential-style accommodations.
WHAT TO DO
To get a taste of the rustic, slow-living that Montauk embraces, take your family horseback riding at Deep Hollow Ranch. The ranch provides rides for all ages, and everyone 8 years old and older can participate in the beach rides. For the safety of the horses, there is a weight limit of 240 pounds.
Don’t miss the classic Montauk Point Lighthouse, which was originally commissioned by President George Washington and is the fourth-oldest working lighthouse in the United States. Admission is $15 for adults or $5 for children under 12.
Every Thursday during the summer season, the Montauk Farmers Market hosts more than 40 vendors selling everything from flowers to fresh produce! Swing by to take home a locally made souvenir.
Ditch Plains Beach is a popular public beach with scenic views of the cliffs. Enjoy a sunset stroll, and bring along your dog for some exercise.
WHERE TO EAT
When staying on the coast, it would be a crime not to partake in fresh seafood on the water. Inlet Seafood Dock & Restaurant will serve up its famous tuna nachos while you enjoy the sunset views and the full-service bar. On Sundays after 4 p.m., kids eat free! Gosman’s Restaurant has been serving fresh seafood to the Montauk community since 1951. Harvest on Fort Pond serves Montauk Italian fare and creative garden cocktails, too.
Inlet Seafood Dock & Restaurant
MOODY BALLPARK OPENING DAY
MICHAELA BANKSTON
On Saturday, April 5 at Moody Ballpark, youth baseball and softball officially kicked off their season with exciting games, activities and shaved ice for the whole family.
1. Justin, Juju, Jayla and Jimeka Hill
2. Jennifer and Mason Fox
3. Maci O’Brien, Eason and Eryn Kelly
4. Mia and Anthony Blissmer
5. Dustin Wilks and Caden Cofield
6. Kyzer, Sirdarrius and Aiden Barnes
7. Carly and Maverick Stafford
8. Briana, Charlie and Randy Bearden
9. Natalie Moseley and Terri Falkner
10. Pam, Phillip, McKenzie and Brandon Deason
11. Laura Beth and Molly Kate Madison
12. Wesha, Kieran and Tanner Edwards
13. Zayne Elliott, Brian Sivel and Rawly Falleta
14. Reagan and Brittany Todd
15. Buddy and Nancy Childers, Becky Dearman and Victoria and Lindy Childers
16. Katie and Dennis Ashmore
PHOTOS BY
STORYTIME EASTER EGG HUNT
PHOTOS BY MICHAELA BANKSTON
On Monday and Tuesday, April 14-15, Doris Stanley Memorial Library added an Easter egg hunt to their weekly story time to celebrate the holiday with books, games, snacks and of course, Easter eggs.
1. Abigail Ingram, Amelia Tibbs and Juniper Rohm
2. Meagan and Stevie Preston
3. Parker, Stacy and Eli Nalley
4. Maggie Anne and Jennifer Stone
5. Hudson and Brenna Turner
6. Thomas and Eloise Mullen
7. Rebekah and Kavi Patel
8. CJ and Zay Johnson
9. Callie Jo Eastis and Shannon McCrary
10. Alexandria Lambert and Sutton Brown
11. Charlie Davis
12. Aurora and Naaman East
SCOOPS FOR SCHOOLS
PHOTOS BY MICHAELA BANKSTON
On Tuesday, April 15 at Howard Family Holiday Farm, 411 Kids Foundation partnered with Howard Family Holiday Farm for Scoops for Schools, an ice cream fundraiser benefitting Moody Middle School.
1. Eli, Avery, Jackie and John Francis
2. Emma and Jennifer Janik
3. Jacob Higgins, Callie Barrett and Madelyn Higgins
4. Bentley and Brooklyn Watson
5. Quinn, Lisa, Gideon and Moses Whitten and Emma Arnie
6. Kalea Hill
7. Jennifer Terry and Terry McNutt
8. Aleya Gilley and Ginger Lowe
9. Adrianna and Austin Putnam and Madison and Madelyn Carroll
10. Liam Malesko and Amy Beason
11. Lucia and Juliana Bermudez and Wendy Martin
12. Jennifer and Owen Jackson
13. Brittany and Raylan Newbold
14. Nick, Katie, Claire and Cate Dawson and Laura Beth and Wesley Mills
15. Carmen and Joe Romero
MOODY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL FIELD DAY
BY MICHAELA BANKSTON
On Wednesday and Thursday, April 16-17, Moody Elementary School students participated in “Moody Ninja Warrior “ challenges, water games and a tug-of-war competition as part of their annual field day.
3. Alivia Strickland, Lilah McGlaughlin, Katelynn Cheatwood, Claire Coubert, Japhet Arguedas and Eleanor Wang
4. Chanlee and Ingram Black
5. Jayla Whitsey and Emma Kile
6. Braylyn and Ashley Peterson
7. Jack and Jame Barrett
8. Michael and Cam Jones
9. Hannah McLendon, Ava Cook and Ryleigh Russell
10. Ari Moore and Sheppard Milsap
11. Crystal, Ryder and Evan Perkins
12. Michelle Pearsall and Ellie Nichols
13. Payton Kirkley, Samantha Harris and Spencer Colburn
14. Sophia Gibbs and Nylah Dodd
15. Lynn and Laurel Arnwine
16. Alivia Strickland, Katelynn Cheatwood and Sophie Cromer
PHOTOS
411 DAY
On Friday, April 11 across all campuses, Moody schools celebrated 411 Day with students-versus-teachers basketball and volleyball games, athletes reading to elementary school students, a glow party, a dodgeball tournament and food trucks.
1. Maliyah Washington, Ellie Marie Massey, Ava Graham and Gracie Brown
2. Chloe White and Avery Reece
3. Caleb Ragsdale, Lacey Nichols and Mrs. Willard’s Class
4. Kaydance Eller and McKenzie Deason
5. Brittney Sullivan and Kristin Drawhorn
6. Emma Kile, Jayla Whitsey, Kaleb Goff and Mrs. Higgins’ class
7. Blue and Brandy Shotts
8. Bradley Blais, Kaleb Goff, Izaiah Hatch and Caleb O’Neal
9. Kennedy Danforah and Skyla Young
10. Ms. Summers’ class
11. Ms. Palmer and Mrs. Frederick’s class
12. Gracelynn Harvell and Isabelle Lucus
13. Mrs. McNutt’s class
14. Kynleigh Deliz, Bella Chambers and Stacy Vu
PHOTOS BY MICHAELA BANKSTON
16. Bentley Lightsey, Jaydis Norman and Rayshod Hines
17. Luke Walker, Jack Reed, Dezron Mobley, Enmanuel Garcia and Caleb Goree
18. Julian Valera and Kaden Price
19. Sekarria Dugger and Emma Bowman
20. Kelsi Austin, Zoey Sepeda and Ella Smith
21. CJ Morris, Aj Yarbrough, Eli Merchant, Andrew Perry, Carson Ethridge, Preston Richardson, Aiden Jones and Sam Sivley
15. Rylee Murdock, Rileigh Echols, Jasmine James and Aileena Myers
Now Hiring: Diesel Mechanic 4 Years Minimum Experience. CDL Preferred. Competitive Pay. Great Benefits. Apply in person: 2180 Hwy 87 Alabaster, 35007
Now Hiring For Utility Positions
Starting pay $15.14/ hour Must be able to pass background screen. Please apply at: www.bc.com
Central Alabma Wellness Mental Health Services Office locations in Calera, Clanton, Pelham, and 280! 205-651-0077 Visit our website to learn more centralalbama wellness.org
Shelby County Schools Substitute Teachers Limitless opportunities for passionate people! •Free pre-hire training •Paid orientation •Ongoing professional development •Steady, yet flexible, work •Weekly pay •Your preference of schools Contact Anne Gamble:O: 205.682.7062 M: 205.532.1122 anne.gamble@ kellyservices.com
Marble Valley Manor. Affordable 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments for Elderly & Disabled. Many on-site services! 2115 Motes Rd, Sylacauga. 256245-6500 •TDD#s: 800-548-2547(V) •800-548-2546(T/A). Office Hours: MonFri, 8am-4pm. Equal Opportunity Provider/Employer
Security Guard for Gated Community in North Shelby County Full-time or Part-time. Must have pistol permit. Call Brittany 205-991-4653
University Baptist CDC Pre-K In Montevallo NOW HIRING Lead Teachers for First Class 4 Pre-K program. Long Term substitute for spring semester and maternity leave substitute AprilMay. Lead Teacher subs must have a bachelor degree in Early Childhood Education/ Development. Experience in First Class program and Bilingual skills a plus. For questions or resumes, contact Lorrie Ozley: universitybaptistcdc@ gmail.com Preschool preregistration for 20252026 school year January 15-March prek.alaceed. alabama.gov
Become a Dental Assistant in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website capstonedental assisting.com or call (205)561-8118 and get your career started!
ETS Restorations & Tree Service “From street to walls, we do it all” •Retaining Walls •Concrete Work •Demolition
•Landscaping •Tree Removal •Tree Trimming •Bobcat Work •Hardscapes •Hauling FREE ESTIMATES!!! CALL NOW (205)209-7787 (205)683-3257
Breakpoint Manager
– positions offered by Autocar, LLC (Center Point, AL). Understand eng design & specified auto parts, & work w/ both Planning & Purchasing on best time operationally & financially to change suppliers, parts, or both. Submit resume to legalcompliance@ gvwgroup.com.
Quality Control Technician
Req’d: Bachelor’s degree in industrial engr., quality control mgmt., or related. Mail resume: Seoyon E-hwa Interior Systems Georgia, Inc. 104 Wiley Rd. LaGrange, GA 30240
Now Hiring!
Danieli Taranis LLC (Chelsea, AL) Send resumes to c.hegarty@danieli. com
Now Hiring!
Termite Treaters and Inspectors Work with a great local company, in business for over 50 years. BC/BS insurance, 401k, opportunities available. No experience required Must have a good driving record and be able to pass drug screen. Email to facsmith@charter.net or call 205-369-6250 Vulcan Termite and Pest Control
Wanted Maintenance/ Handyman to assist with vehicle and land upkeep. Must pass background & drug test, have reliable transportation, be able to drive a manual transmission and be willing to work. Apply in person at 115 Commerce Drive Pelham, AL 35124 Vulcan Termite and Pest Control
MY MOODY
BRENT GULLEDGE
Broker/Owner at EXIT Realty Crossroads
Sentimental Spots Home
We love being at home, being with family and just getting grounded and back to our roots. We do not really have a big, sentimental place we love to visit, but we enjoy all of the restaurants in Moody and try to catch all of the fun events!
Eat Local
Carpenetti’s Pizza
Carpenetti’s Pizza is easily my favorite place to eat in Moody! I love the stuffed pizza with alfredo sauce, pepperoni and ricotta cheese!
Fellowship in Community Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest is probably one of our favorite events. We love how the community comes together in multiple ways to show up and show out! We are in the process of starting up our own yearly home and garden event as well. Each year we will pick a nonprofit to sponsor. We love giving back and are always looking for new avenues to do so.
Get Outdoors
Family Land
Our favorite place to be outdoors in Moody is our family land! We love sitting outside with family by the pool and cooking out. What we are going to enjoy the most is when we finish building our new home in Moody!
Making Memories First Date
We have so many memories that we have made in Moody. My wife and I had our first “alone” date in Moody at Bluegrass BBQ. We got married at Red Gates at Kelly Creek. We opened up our first business, EXIT Realty Crossroads, and we wanted to make sure the name had a community reference. We are looking forward to building our family home and making many more memories in Moody! We love our community and are looking forward to supporting the growth and future of Moody!
