December 2014 Pride of Montgomery by The Pride of Montgomery

December 2014

PRIDE

The

Montgomery

PRIDE

A Word from Our Mayor

The

of Montgomery

Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange

Season Greetings!

The holidays are here, and as many of us continue preparing to host family

and friends, the Capital of Dreams continues preparing to host visitors from across the country.

This holiday season will be especially exciting in our city as we bring one

of Alabamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite sports to our own backyard by hosting the inaugural ESPN Raycom Media Camellia Bowl December 20. Two Division I teams will play for pride in a primetime gridiron grudge match to be televised nationally from our historic Cramton Bowl. We anticipate thousands of fans ready to hunker down and watch a great game between the Sun Belt and Mid-American Conferences to visit. And when they are not in the stadium, we know they will have a blast exploring our city and bringing a significant boost to the local economy by supporting River Region businesses.

Not only should out of town visitors be expected to shop local to find unique

items, but we all must remember to support our friends and neighbors by choosing to shop local. Montgomeryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s local businesses are the lifeblood of this community. In our metro area alone, more than 11,000 work in retail sales, earning roughly a combined $287 million annually, according to figures from a 2013 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report. Choosing to shop local keeps our money in the community, which supports job creation, outreach programs and revitalization efforts right here in our city. It even helps us attract events like the Camellia Bowl.

This is truly amazing city, and we are in the midst of an unprecedented era of

Publishers Virginia Saunders Frank K. Rho publisher's assistant Michael D. Carty Creative Director George Singleton Advertising Representatives Virginia Saunders Contributing Photographers Nick Drollette Photography Pet Pawtography by Diana Bunch Adrian Freeman Photography Dreamers Photography by Adrienne Quick Swanke' Chic Photography George Singleton Contributing Writers Tasha Scott Rebekah Edwards Henry Hernandez Dr. Frederick Jackson, O.D. Dr. Phillip V. Mitchell DVM Dr. Kalai Mugilan Dr. Frank K. Rho Geoff Stough Pastor Phil Bevilacqua Yvonna Richardson Thomas Kaufman Sylvia Chaney George Singleton Distribution George Singleton Printed by McQuick Printing

For advertising information, contact Virginia Saunders 334-462-9602 or virginia@theprideadvertising.com PO Box 11543, Montgomery, AL 36111 The Pride of Montgomery Magazine is published 12 times a year by The Pride Advertising, Inc. The entire contents of The Pride Magazine is copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the express written consent of the publishers. The Pride Magazine accepts no responsibility for the return of unsolicited manuscripts and/or photographs and assumes no liability for products or services advertised. The Pride Magazine reserves the right to edit, rewrite or refuse material and is not responsible for products.

rebirth and excitement in Montgomery. I am thankful for our citizens, city employees, community advocates and business leaders who invest their time, talents and hope in our community. As the year comes to a close, we look forward to sharing this special place with the world as we commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Selma-toMontgomery Voting Rights March. Merry Christmas and happy holidays! -Mayor Todd Strange 4

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To View Current & Past Issues, Find Us On Facebook! The Pride of Montgomery Visit Our Website! www.prideofmontgomery.com

In This Issue

Advertisers

2 What's New in the City? 4 A Word from our Mayor 10 Sights To See 12 Health & Fitness 22 Life Lessons 26 workforce 28 Good Taste 32 Faith 34 Education Station 44 Meow Woof & Chirp 46 Insurance 101 48 Worth A Look 50 Shopping Spree 56 Kid's Corner 60 Date Book 62 Map It Out

Pastor Phil Bevilacqua

56 The Space Walker

35 Green Gate School 36

14 Resolution Fitness

Oak Grove Inn

13 Old Alabama Town

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Alabama News on CBS & ABC 43 Alabama Shakespeare Festival 22 American Forest Management 27 Capitol Oyster Bar 29 Chris' Hot Dogs 28 Christ the Redeemer 27 Churchill Academy 37 Cronier's Fine Jewelry 50-51 Dentistry for Children 13 Deramus Hearing Aid Centers 7, 33, 64 Doug's 2 Salon 49 Eastside Grille 26 Faulkner University 15, 34 Filet & Vine 31 Fine Line Engravers & Gifts 54 Golden Shears 49 Grace Life Church 32, 40 Harriott II 5, 38, 52 Jackson Hospital 17 Lee & Lan Florist 39 Looney’s SuperSkate 59 Lush Makeup Art 48 Macon East Academy 38 McQuick Printing 15 Montgomery Humane Society 58 Nick Drollette Photography 23 Oak Grove Inn 14 Old Alabama Town 13 Pediatrics at Twilight 27 Pet Pawtography by Diana Bunch 57 Phoenix Salon & Spa 55 Primary EyeCare 18-19 Quite the Pair 49 RezFIT 13, 16 River Region TV 25 State Farm, Henry Hernandez 46-47 Steak ’n Shake 30 SuperCuts 41 Tasha Scott, Life Coach 22, 42 Taylor Crossing Animal Hospital 44-45 Office of Dr. Rachelle Janush, D.O. 20-21 The Shoppes of My Kids Attic 59 The Space Walker 56 Troy University Montgomery 35 Two Blessings Gift Boutique 53 UPS Store 42 WCOV / Fox 20 61 Wilson Shaw IT 24

On The Cover

Glenda DeRamus Does it Again! DeRamus Hearing Center was established in 1982. It is the oldest independent hearing center in Montgomery. Over the years, they have grown to serve the River Region with offices in Montgomery, Selma, Opelika, and Clanton, Alabama. This company not only cares about their patients, but their community as a whole. Glenda DeRamus, is involved in many charitable organizations such as Good Morning Montgomery Kiwanis Club, Easter Seals of Alabama, Through the Grace of God Ministries, Mothers Against Drunk Driving, RiverEdge Church of Montgomery, and Medical Outreach Ministries. And in recent years, DeRamus Hearing has done several hearing aid giveaways for individuals who couldn't afford hearing aids. Many of her employees have seen first hand the excitement and enthusiasm that radiates throughout her; it can be seen in her eyes, the love of giving back to the River Region. Her motto is,"It's better to give than to receive." Glenda understands the frustrations of people not being able to hear their loved ones, so she and her company do the best that they can to help them hear again. So with the efforts and community commitment of Glenda DeRamus, she has been honored with the 2014 Montgomery Chamber of Commerce Point of Light Award, which is given annually to women and minority business owners who have made a difference in his or her communities, and she has done just that. Glenda also challenged other Ear, Nose, and Throat doctors, and all of the Audiologists in the River Region to join her to create a team effort to give back. You can hear firsthand what others are saying by going to deramushearingcenters.net.

2014 Point of Light Award Recipient!

Gestalt and Genius Loci in Downtown Montgomery: Part Two

Lessons From St. Louis by Thomas Kaufmann

Revitalized Building at Crown Square -‐ 14th Street in Old North St. Louis

Continuing our discussion about ‘looking deeply at’, indeed, ‘looking deeply into’ historic details:

.......In order for Gestalt and Genius Loci ‘to be realized in downtown Montgomery’ -‐ it is so very important that every element and facet of a historic building be ‘deemed worthy’ of consideration for preservation…….from historic paint color schemes, to original doors, windows, brick, stone, carrara glass, cast-‐iron storefront assemblies, chrome metal edging details, signage, lighting, transom windows, display windows, prism glass, awnings, lettering, and much more. More to the point, is the importance of the details of the historic buildings which the user can see, touch, and appreciate on the ‘street level’. Indeed, these are those details which generate the greatest life and energy for America’s ‘Main Streets’. Without the inclusion of these important details, historic downtown storefronts become only a little more than Hollywood studio sets. The historic details make all of the difference.

To prove this theorem, I would like to include for the reader some photographs of the wonderfully revitalized Crown Square -‐ 14th Street in Old North St. Louis, completed around 2010, which proves how important it is to ‘really study’ historic buildings for information & clues, before commencing with design & construction plans for rehabilitating historic storefront buildings, and especially the ‘face’ of the same – the building’s street façade. So what does all this this have to do with creating ‘Genius Loci’ in downtown Montgomery so that everyone may enjoy the highest, best, and most memorable experiences (‘Gestalt’) in being there? Everything! 8

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Rubenstein’s Shoes, Old North St. Louis – Historic Photographs, and ‘Before’ and ‘After’………….and as shown below in Context

In order to ‘really study’ a building’s history in order to authentically foster a sense of Gestalt and Genius Loci in downtown Montgomery, researching historic photographs, newspaper ads, business stationary, and any and all types of information which can provide guidance in the process of rehabilitating a historic downtown property are invaluable. In the example (above) of Rubinstein’s Shoe Store, it is easy to see how the historic photographs solved the riddle for the configuration of the storefront entrance, colors, textures, window displays/bulkheads, and the entrance door to the second story, or loft level. Historic paint color research always leads to interesting and surprising studies, especially when you do the ‘dime-‐store’ method for discovering historic paint colors-‐on-‐wood (contact the author for more details!).

In retrospect, yesteryear’s business owners put ‘heart and soul’ into their ‘Main Street’ businesses, stores & storefronts to both woo and attract customers, in many respects, for a lifetime and beyond. Their businesses were merely an extension of their personalities and the tremendous courtesy, caring, and service they desired to render to their patrons. The physical edifices and the faces of the same expressed a civic pride, creativity, design-‐ savviness, awareness of trending, a love for people, and a heart for service – all extremely important contributory factors to both the idea of Gestalt and Genius Loci in our downtown. And yet, in our 21st century technological age -‐ with respect to our Main Street mercantile ancestors -‐the question still remains: can we do no less today? Thomas Kaufmann teaches design studio, architectural history, and historic preservation at the Robert R. Taylor School of Architecture and Construction Science at Tuskegee University, and was formerly the Designer of the Alabama Main Street Program at the Alabama Historical Commission. He is happily married to the former Ann Marie Majerick and they have one son, Tommy. All article photographs are by the author; Tom may be contacted at artisthistorian@gmail.com The Pride of Montgomery

Sights To See

CHRISTMAS IN DIXIE

What was Christmas like in Montgomery, and the South, during the War Between the States? Supplies were scarce, especially as the war continued, paper money was almost worth-

at one of the parties consisted of “Chicken salad, fruitcake (a novelty)” along with other items. Another event recorded by Sarah Follansbee stated a nice tea was served. Another recorded Confeder-

T h o m a s N a s t ’s C i v i l Wa r C h r i s t m a s f r o m t h e J a n u a r y 1 8 6 3 e d i t i o n o f H a r p e r ’s We e k l y less, most able bodied men were off fighting, unless they received a short leave, and the women had to add “making Christmas” to the load they already carried. There were two sisters who lived in Montgomery during the war. Bell and Sarah Follansbee were from New England and taught school in Montgomery. Sarah Follansbee kept a diary of her time in Montgomery, which includes Christmas of 1864. She and her sister spent that Christmas with friends between Wetumpka and Hayneville, eating, dancing, and exchanging gifts. She notes in her diary they were given “bundles of the richest ‘lit wood’ clean cut in small splints delighted us.” These were small bundles of kindling, which were popular gifts as resources became scarce. Gifts also included homemade woolen mittens, fruits, nuts, and cakes. Food 10

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ate Christmas is from an article written by Varina Howell Davis, wife Confederate President Jefferson Davis. She writes of how most of the focus was preparation for Christmas at the local Episcopal Orphanage as well as her own family. Mrs. Davis describes how young ladies learned to “make do” with what was available. She states, “some small feathered chickens and parrots…were furnished with new tail feathers, lambs minus much of their wool were supplied with a cotton wool substitute, rag dolls were plumped out and recovered with clean cloth, and the young ladies painted their fat faces in bright colors and furnished them with beads for eyes.” The young ladies learned to remake items or take an old item and turn it into something new. Mrs. Davis records, “Trunks of old things were turned out and

b y G e o f f S to u g h

snipping of silk and even woolen of bright colors were found…the beauty of those home-made things astonished us all, for they looked quite ‘custom-made.’” Gifts were made for everyone, including servants, who were included in the family game of who could wish a “Merry Christmas” before someone else said it to them. Everyone also attended Church in observance of Christmas. Despite the desolation of war, Christmas was still observed throughout the South. Having parties, sharing laughs, singing songs, and exchanging gifts, no matter the quality, helped everyone during that time. Mrs. Davis remarked, “These young people are gray-haired now, but the lessons of self-denial, industry and frugality in which they became past mistresses then, have made of them the most dignified, selfreliant and tender women I have ever know—all honor to them.”

Varina Howell Davis, wife of Confederate President Jefferson Davis

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Health & Fitness

Avoiding BPA Fillings

By Dr. Frank Rho

Over the last two decades, dental amalgam has been a hot topic for controversy because of its content of mercury. A known neurotoxin. Since we've figured that out, scientists, universities, organizations and politics have jumped into the fire with competing agendas. This has made the question for us, you and your dentist, a lot more complicated than it needs to be. Last month, we decided to let the guys in suits and lab coats duke it out and we'll just avoid amalgam fillings altogether. In the meantime, white dental fillings became wildly popular to fix and repair decayed and broken teeth because it does not contain mercury and it looks much better than the dark silver fillings. Well, now it's gotten complicated once again. A few years ago, researchers suggested that BPA, or Bisphenol A can cause problems in the body. BPA is a synthetic substance used in making polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. The plastics are used in our daily lives in containers that store food and beverages, such as water bottles. Epoxy resins are used to coat the inside of metal products, such as food cans and water supply lines. It is also used in some dental sealants and composites (white fillings). PBA mimics the hormone estrogen which confuses our organs that produce or respond the hormone and can possibly cause health effects on the brain, behavior and prostate gland of children and developing fetuses. So once again, the organizations and universities have put out hundreds and hundreds of studies showing that while there is an elevated level of BPA in people after the white fillings for a short time, the levels return to a very low baseline and they are inconclusive about whether that poses a risk to human beings. The FDA has said the BPA is safe at the very low levels that occur. But then, other organizations have studies which correlate BPA to negative effects to the development of our children. With today's ever expanding technology, we are in a brave new world. New discoveries lead to new ways of life and we don't know it's effects until it has been lived out. Just as we look back and see the flaws and foibles of our generations past, our children's children will look at our generation and say "Wow, those guys in 2014 were like cavemen." So where does that leave us? Today's everyday humans raising our families? A vast majority of the dentists I've known throughout the country are some of the most conscientious people I know. Many of the manufactures of high quality dental materials have created white dental fillings without BPA. So once again, let's let the organizations and politicians figure it out until maybe someday they can have some hard facts that we can apply to our daily lives. In the meantime, lets just avoid it altogether.

Have a very Merry Christmas and an even happier New Year!

DR. RHO KNOWS... GUMS & TEETH

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Dr. Frank K. Rho received his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from Loma Linda University in 1997. He has worked with numerous dentists and specialists and has lectured in communities on the subject of dental care throughout the United States. He is an active member of a number of organizations composed of dentists who keep abreast of the latest trends and techniques in dentistry. Dr. Rho practices general dentistry in Prattville, Alabama.

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OAK GROVE INN at Grove Park Independent & Assisted Living

Locally-owned, Oak Grove Inn offers: • Privacy and security as well as the chance to enjoy daily life with active residents of similar interests and tastes. • Beauty shop, pool, jacuzzi, club house, library, etc. • Selective menus offered daily • Planned activities to strengthen mind & body • Housekeeping Services • Complimentary transportation services Monday-Friday • And Much More!

Oak Grove Inn invites you to visit us online at OakGroveInn.org or stop by for a tour. To make an appointment, Call Julie Benson or O’Neal Green at 215-8881.

3801 Oak Grove Drive • Montgomery, AL 36116 (334) 215-8881 • www.OakGroveInn.org 14

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I Choose Faulkner Faulkner University has been providing Christian higher education for more than 70 years. We offer traditional, adult and online degree programs. Come see the Faulkner difference. faulkner.edu | (334) 272-5820

Faulkner University A

C H R I S T I A N

U N I V E R S I T Y

Montgomery. Online. Locations near you.

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Health & Fitness

Ready! Set! Go RezFIT! by Corey & Donna Ellis

2014 has been a great year for RezFIT, with helping the community! It's the year's end, and it's time to think about the new year right now. At RezFIT, we're striving to incorporate more variety within our trainings, classes, and BOOTCAMPS. We're gearing up for an exciting 2015, with Zumba Fitness, youth sports performance, and more flexibility routines leading the force. BOOTCAMP and Total GYM will always be the attractions of RezFIT, but it's time to make additions, and reach higher heights. We are becoming the well rounded training facility that's truly needed in the River Region. We're all about professional training, and motivational guidance at RezFIT. If your personal desire is to be lead by experienced, knowledgeable, and RESULTS driven fitness trainers and instructors, RezFIT is the place for you in 2015! If you're interested in joining us at the Resolution Fitness Training Facility, please contact us at 504-915-7879 OR become our friend on FB @ Keyword - Rez Fit. Corey & Donna Ellis Owners of Resolution Fitness Camps 504.915.7879 resolutioncamp07@hotmail.com

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Dr. Fredrick Jackson received his undergraduate degree from Huntingdon College, and earned his Doctor of Optometry degree from the University of AL-Birmingham 1984. He has practiced in the Montgomery area for over 27 years and his areas of specialty includes treatment of dry eye syndrome and nutritional eye care, and management of refractive surgery patients.

Protecting Your Eyes from Electronic Devices b y D r. Fre d r i c k J a c k s o n

he bright side of electronic devices has a dark side, and that is Blue light. Adults and children alike have developed an insatiable diet for electronic devices and their content. Children as young as two years old use electronic devices and some parents use these devices as surrogate baby sitters to appease children. Many children get their first smartphone and gaming device by age 6, and now schools are turning in textbooks for tablets. Blue light emitted by our electronic devices including television has started a tsunami of potential harm for our eyes and general health. There is a solution, so keep reading…..

The Problem with Blue Light When we are exposed to electric light (especially tablets, PC’s, smart phones, LED lights and TV’s) after dark there is suppression of melatonin, a hormone that controls our circadian rhythms which increases alertness causing sleep deficiency. Light at night and especially Blue light is bad for your health says Dr. Charles Czeisler of Harvard Medical School. Teens have a lot of distractions to disturb sleep. Being very social, they don’t want to sleep because of the allure of texting and social media. Teens should get 8-9 hours of sleep at night and it’s not happening. Teens normally have delayed sleep phase syndrome where they stay up late and get up late on weekends. Doctors at Holtz Children’s Hospital at the University of Miami say this lack of sleep triggers obesity, headaches, sleep disorders, and a general inability to concentrate. Some 40% of people in the United States report that their sleep is insufficient, with 25% reporting difficulty concentrating secondary to fatigue. The US Institute of Medicine estimates that between 50 million to 70 million people in the United States suffer adverse health consequences from sleep disorders and sleep deficiency, including greater risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, depression and stroke. When children lose sleep they become hyperactive instead of sleepy which may artificially inflate the prevalence of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Dr. Czeisler of Harvard says, “the more we light up our lives the less we seem to sleep.” The second problem with Blue light emanating from sunlight or electronic devices is the damage to the reAtina increasing the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD is the leading cause of blindness in adults over age 55. The wavelength of blue light causes oxidative damage from a lifetime of exposure that is seen by your optometrist when he or she carefully inspects the retina/macula in your eye examination. There are special instruments like OCT used to follow this oxidative damage. One in four adults over age 65 will develop AMD. It is predicted that the number of people developing AMD will triple in the next decade because of increased exposure to Blue Light. The reason to prevent this condition is that it destroys an individual’s independence by affecting our ability to read or drive a car. Vision impairment has been shown to be associated with more falls and hip fractures, depression, and worst of all increased mortality.

A Practical and Fashionable Solution - Schedule a comprehensive eye examination to assess current eye health and discuss this serious problem with your eye doctor. - Ask about specialty eyeglass lenses (medical eyeglasses) that filter harmful blue light. There are indoor and outdoor lenses. The only brand that effectively blocks both the wavelength that damages the retina and suppresses melatonin is BluTech. These lenses contain ocular pigments and melanin in the optimal ratio to filter Ultraviolet and harmful blue light while preserving natural color perception. - Parents need to promote healthy habits for their kids such as plenty of structured sleep, time for exercise, eating fruits and vegetables, and putting electronic gear including TV, and smartphones aside after dinner. To learn more about protecting your eyes and enhancing your vision for life, call Dr. Jackson at Primary Eyecare Associates, 334-271-3900. www.primaryicare.com

Read the Voices of Patients' Lives that Dr. Janush has Changed Add Yours... Tom and Joyce Renckly: What a joy it was to discover a soul of an old fashion doctor with the modern day cutting edge skills. Too often, in my experience, specialization prevents doctors from seeing patient as a whole person. Not so with Dr. J. Through the years as my condition has run its course, Dr. Janush has listened, investigated, and altered treatment to address my ever-changing needs. I quickly discovered that Dr. Janush is serious about actively reading and attending workshops to bring cutting edge knowledge and treatment to share with her patients. This focus has led her to uncovering and addressing problems that could have become even more serious had they not been addressed. No doctor can do it all without the support of an outstanding office staff. As anyone knows, an office staff can make or break a practice. Dr. Janushâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s staff is polite, efficient and (as we can truthfully attest) caring. Dr. Janush and her dedicated, professional staff are an extremely bright spot on the Montgomery, Alabama healthcare landscape. We count ourselves blessed to be her patients, and are very grateful that she practices here.

Corine Dixon: My overall experience since 2011 with Dr. Janush and her staff at The Center for Physical Medicine and Pain Management has been excellent. Dr. Janush is compassionate towards her patients and exudes extreme professionalism as a doctor.

Carson Davis: When I first went to Dr. Janush, I had spent 11 years with sporadic pain and 2 years of constant pain. The pain had reached the point of my taking pain pills daily to function. I had been to see multiple doctors and made several trips to the emergency room. No one could find the source of the pain and chalked it up to either drug seeking or all in my head. During the first visit she requested medical releases for all the x-rays completed, and she went over the entire 13 years. She did a quick physical examination of the pain location and asked if I had ever sustained an injury. This was the first doctor to ask about an injury and at first I said no. While waiting for the x-rays to be delivered and reviewed, I remembered a significant injury around the time the pain first started, but hadn't thought it could be the cause. At the follow up visit, I mentioned the injury, and based on her reading of the x-rays, the case and source of the pain was finally discovered. She recommended swimming as the primary physical therapy, and also began injecting the pain areas to help calm the surrounding muscles. Without Dr. Janush and her wonderful staff, I would have become disabled before the age of 30. With Dr. Janush, I have continued to work at a high level for the past the past 16 years. Not only have I personally benefited, but so have the Veterans of this great Nation who I serve daily.

James Thompson: I hurt bad. She made me better. 20

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THE CENTER for PHYSICAL MEDICINE & PAIN MANAGEMENT Compassionate Care in the Treatment of Chronic Pain

334-260-8988

Ultrasound Guided Injections Exclusive to Tri-County Area

Multidisciplinary pain management, restoring function to people who suffer from: Fibromyalgia/Myofascial Pain Herniated or Bulging Disk Back Pain Migraine/Neck Pain Arthritis/ Joint Pain Nerve Injuries Neurological Disorders Work Injuries

Dr. Rachelle Janush, D.O. Neuro Muscle Skeletal Pain Specialist 2227 Taylor Road Montgomery, AL 36117 Monday -Thursday 8:00am - 4:30pm 334-260-8988 334-260-8225 Fax www.cpmpm.net

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Life Lessons

The Gift of Close Friends By Tasha M. Scott, Personal Development Coach

Do you have close friends? This sounds like such an obvious question to some, but for others this can be a startling revelation. The kind of friends I am talking about are those that: You can be transparent and real with; Can tell you are lying when you say “I’m fine” and you're really not; Will stand by your side when life gets hard and not judge you in your mess; Will stand toe-to-toe with you and tell you that you are wrong when you really are; Will fight for you and with you because giving up is not an option; Will encourage you, even when you resist their help; You can laugh and cut up with for no apparent reason except you just enjoy each other’s company.

Yeah, "those" kind of friends. You don’t need people who will celebrate you ONLY. You need close friends who will have your back in the good times and the bad times. You need people in your life who you can be real and honest with because - guess what - they need you, too. This is part of enjoying life's journey: Mutually healthy friendships. No matter where you are on your dream journey, you need family AND close friends. This is the time of year where that need can become stronger than ever. Life is too short to miss out on the treasures of close friendships! During this holiday season, do something special to show your close friends (and family) just how much you appreciate them. ~ Tasha M. Scott, @coachtashascott Tasha M. Scott is a Personal Development Coach who empowers women to AWAKEN, COMMIT, GROW and PROSPER in life and in business, please visit http://www.tashamscott.com

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Tired of managing IT, when you should be managing your business? Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here for.

Managed IT Services IT Security Solutions Email andCollaboration Hardware/Software Monitoring Mac Repair

www.WilsonShawIT.com 8405 Crossland Loop Montgomery, AL 36117 334-356-3461

JT & Leanne - "Get Rich Quick! Count your Blessings!" Wow, It is unbelievable that it is the last month of 2014! I look back at this year and realize how truly blessed JT & I are. We have our parents, JT has his grandmothers, our children are healthy and we are both enjoying our work. We love what we do and we appreciate how the River Region has embraced us. We have our troubles, just like every other family, but when it comes right down to it we are rich with blessings! The saying “I think as you grow older, your Christmas List gets smaller and the things you really want for the Holidays can’t be bought” is so true. These last few weeks have been very tragic for some families and communities in the River Region. I can’t imagine having to plan my husband or my child’s funeral. It is a very difficult time anytime of the year, but at the Holidays especially grueling. This time of year, so many people will be struggling with emotions, loss, finances – so if you are blessed be a blessing. Get an angel off the Angel tree at work, at church, be an angel and donate to the local Humane Society in your area. When your heart makes you feel inclined to help somebody, do something about it. Be a bit kinder to a stranger, smile, or hold open a door for someone. Appreciate each other. We are all in this thing called life together.I learned a few years ago from a very smart lady, who lost her daughter to cancer at the age of 5, that it is ok to give your child ice cream for breakfast! Do it. Love your children and your family. Forgive and be a blessing. JT and I wish you and yours a blessed and safe holiday season and Merry Christmas from our family to yours! Contact JT & Leanne Mix 103 Radio Personalities River Region TV Show (CW & WSFA12) Direct Cell: (334) 380-1950 Email: RiverRegionTV@Gmail.com Websites: www.Mix103.com and www.RiverRegion.TV

Save the Dates for JT & LEANNE www.RiverRegion.TV

Our Sponsors

Saturday, December 13th, 5:00pm Saturday, December 20th 7:30am Join JT & Leanne as they showcase local fun in our community! Join them on their tour of the places, faces and local businesses that make Central Alabama a great place to work, raise a family and socialize! Don’t miss the show! Two weekend specials on WSFA-TV 12! Visit www.riverregion.tv for future dates and times.

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Workforce

Am I Happy?

by Kalai Mugilan

“So, chief, what about you, are you happy?” That is a question I am asked many a times, and is a follow up from last month about being happy with yourself. This month, the question, am I happy, honestly perplexes me. I have not sought happiness in my life. Besides, as we already know, the definition of happiness varies from person to person. I have sought for meaning not happiness; where in all my actions and words and relationships, am I authentic, true to me without hurting another, where sometimes silence may be the most authentic place I can be. Thus, I toil with my 6 and 4 year old, I work hard, tending to their needs. I support my career driven spouse the best I know how, I am never enough for all three of them, never will be. I teach at a college. I am for sure not keeping all of them “happy”, at least in the face of my actions. But, in the face of all the drudgery and toil and struggle, knowing I give them all that I know how, given the resources available to me at each given moment, I am true to myself, I give them my utter most sincere self, and thus, I sleep well at night, and probably will die with a smile on my face. Will I do it again? Yes. Am I happy? That has never crossed my mind. Kalai MugilanAuthor: Reflections in a Broken Mirror. Get your copy on Amazon.com or in Kindle. Monthly Contributor: The Pride of Montgomery; Diversity Trainer: Varietas, LLC Cell Number (205) 243 - 7747

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Christ the Redeemer Episcopal Church

Christ the Redeemer welcomes Rev. Daniel Cenci as its new priest. Cenci also is the associate priest at St. John’s Episcopal Church, and has inspired the congregation, some of whom are seen above. Christ the Redeemer, also known as “Christ the Redeemer, Resurrected,” continues to emphasize the healing ministry, with spirited praise and worship, amidst a greater diversity that now includes three races and seven nationalities.

Sunday Services at 6:00pm 6801 Vaughn Road 334-272-3890

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Good Taste American/Deli American Deli 971 Ann St 334-262-6122 Chappy’s Deli 1611 Perry Hill Rd 334-279-7477 2055 E South Blvd 334-286-9200 8139 Vaughn Rd 334-279-1226 Chick Fil A EastChase 6921 Eastchase Loop Montgomery, AL 36117 334-271-1095 Chick-Fil-A at RSA Tower 201 Monroe St. Montgomery, AL 36104 334-293-4773

Chris’ Hotdogs 138 Dexter Ave 334-265-6850

Lunde’s 201 Montgomery St 334-265-3663

Tenda Chick 5951 Atlanta Hwy 334-260-8547

Mama’s Sack Lunch To Go 21 S Perry St 334-265-5554

Wings Xpress 5780 Woodmere Blvd 334-244-7898

MiMi’s Café 6814 EastChase Pkwy 334-271-0124 Momma Goldberg’s Deli 7960 Vaughn Rd 334-517-1071 Montgomery’s Café at Embassy Suites 300 Tallapoosa St 334-269-5055 Panera Bread 2998 Carter Hill Rd 334-262-0064 7224 EastChase Pkwy 334-274-9170

Courthouse Café 100 S Lawrence St 334-832-1684

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers 7005 EastChase Pkwy 334-396-1078

El Paso Chili Company 539 N Eastern Blvd 334-244-0118

Ruddle’s Pub Grill 3133 Bell Rd 334-277-8710

Five Guys Burgers & Fries 7220 EastChase Pkwy 334-239-7220

Schlotzsky’s Deli 5055 Carmichael Rd 334-409-9993

Flames Grill 142 Montgomery St 334-264-0100 Flips Uptown Grill 3900 Atlanta Hwy 334-244-8833 7900 Vaughn Rd 334-270-5559 Guthrie’s 5376 Atlanta Hwy 334-396-8300 7216 EastChase Pkwy 334-270-3331 Hamburger King 547 S Decatur St 334-262-1798 Honey Baked Ham 2816 E South Blvd 334-284-9100 Jason’s Deli 1520 Eastern Blvd 334-409-9890 28

Scott St. Deli 412 Scott St 334-264-9415 Shoney’s 850 Eastern Blvd 334-396-8533

Steak ’n Shake Prattville 2313 Cobbs Ford Rd. 334-290-0036 Steak Out 3271 Malcolm Dr 334-270-0747 2930 Carter Hill Rd 334-269-1800 Stop & Sip Coffee 981 Adams Ave 334-230-9989 Sundown East 3416 Atlanta Hwy 334-271-0501

The Pride of Montgomery

Wishbone Café 61 Bridge St 334-356-4175 7028 Atlanta Hwy 334-244-7270 Zaxby’s 3130 Taylor Rd 334-481-0406 6453 Atlanta Hwy 334-277-8066 2923 Eastern Blvd 334-420-3500 2675 Zelda Rd 334-293-9933

Asian/Indian Ala Thai Classic 963 Ann St 334-240-2549 Ala Thai East 6663 Atlanta Hwy 334-271-3141 Asia Bistro & Seafood 7839 Vaughn Rd 334-213-3628 Bombay Masala 109 Eastern Blvd 334-272-8510

Kabuki Steakhouse 7834 Vaughn Rd 334-273-8885

Saigon Deli 2323 Eastern Blvd 334-279-5921

Thai Gratiem 8868 Minnie Brown Rd 334-215-9960

Buffet City 5461 Atlanta Hwy 334-279-1678

King Buffet 2727 Bell Rd 334-273-8883

Satsuki 6534 Atlanta Hwy 334-239-7450

Top China 9160 EastChase Pkwy 334-270-1668

Choices Restaurant 80 Commerce St 334-262-0888

Korean Garden 2891 Vaughn Plaza Rd 334-277-5685

Shilla 3526 Eastdale Cir 334-354-3026

East China 8153 Vaughn Rd 334-279-1779

Lek’s Railroad Thai at Union Station 300 Water St 334-269-0708

Shogun Japanese 5215 Carmichael Rd 334-271-6999

Green Papaya 409 Coliseum Blvd 334-395-7654 Hibachi Grill & Supreme Buffet 6561 Atlanta Hwy 334-260-7799 181D Eastern Blvd 334-260-6111 India Palace 3007H McGehee Rd 334-281-1200

Lek’s Taste of Thailand 5421 Atlanta Hwy 334-244-8994 Midori 5824 Woodmere Blvd 334-593-1754 Ming’s Garden 1741 Eastern Blvd 334-277-8188 Miyako Japanese 8173 Vaughn Rd 334-215-2275

St. Café 2777 Eastern Blvd 334-396-2232 The Super Buffet 5831 Atlanta Hwy 334-215-0055

Bakery Cupcakes by Tish 1940 Mulberry St. 334-625-0999

Louisa's Bakery 1039 Woodley Rd 334-356-1212 Barbeque

Sushi Café 3004 Zelda Rd 334-819-7060

Country’s Barbecue 2610 Zelda Rd 334-262-6211 5761 Atlanta Hwy 334-270-0126

Sushi Yama 2070 Eastern Blvd 334-612-7800

Dreamland BBQ 101 Tallapoosa St 334-273-7427

Jim ’N Nicks Bar-B-Q 6415 Atlanta Hwy 334-213-0046

Cool Beans at Café d'Art 115 Montgomery St 334-269-3302

Chili’s 7355 EastChase Pkwy 334-270-1973

Nancy’s Italian Ice 7976 Vaughn Rd 334-356-1403

32 Degrees Yogurt Bar 7030 EastChase Pkwy 334-272-4773

La Jolla Restaurant & Bar 6854 EastChase Pkwy 334-356-2600

K&J Rib Shack 4255 S Court St 334-356-1368

Shashy’s Fine Foods 1700 Mulberry St 334-263-7341

City Limits Bar & Grill 3585 McGehee Rd 334-239-9130

True 503 Cloverdale Rd 334-356-3814

The Tipping Point 5015 Hampstead High 334-260-9110

Michael’s Table 2960 Zelda Rd 334-272-2500

Dreamz 511 E Edgemont Ave 334-239-7303

Ruby Tuesday Fine Dining 1310 Eastern Blvd 334-396-0224 Central Restaurant 6970 EastChase Loop 129 Coosa St 334-215-2285 334-517-1155

Sam’s Bar-B-Que 3510 Atlanta Hwy 334-279-0008 Sophia’s BBQ 1055 Adams Ave 334-269-1177 Varsity BBQ 5471 Atlanta Hwy 334-279-5444

Café Café Louisa 1034 E Fairview Ave 334-264-4241 Café M One Museum Dr 334-240-4333

Casual Dining All City Coney Island 701 Madison Ave 334-819-4100 Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar 3001 Carter Hill Rd 334-264-9064 3195 Taylor Rd 334-274-0009 6601 Atlanta Hwy 334-279-1902 California Yogurt Kraze 3010 Zelda Rd 334-356-3716 7730 Vaughn Rd 334-215-9135

Eastside Grille 6667 Atlanta Hwy 334-274-1200 The Exchange at Renaissance Hotel 201 Tallapoosa St 334-481-5165

Filet & Vine 431 Cloverdale Rd 334-262-8463 Island Delights 323 Air Base Blvd 334-264-0041

Sinclair’s 1051 E Fairview Ave 334-834-7462 7847 Vaughn Rd 334-271-7654 Smoothie King 7026 EastChase Pkwy 334-356-5621 Smoothies & Things 109 S Court St 334-241-0770 Sommer’s Place 7972 Vaughn Rd 334-279-5401

Greek Mr. G’s 6268 Atlanta Hwy 334-356-4662

Chophouse Vintage Year 405 Cloverdale Rd 334-264-8463 City Grill & Next Door 8147 Vaughn Rd 334-244-0960 Garrett’s 7780 Atlanta Hwy 334-396-9950 The House Restaurant at Renaissance Montgomery Hotel 201 Tallapoosa St 334-481-5166

Zoe’s Kitchen 7218 EastChase Pkwy 334-270-9115 Zoe’s Kitchen 2960C Zelda Rd 334-395-4698

Italian Carrabba’s Italian 1510 Eastern Blvd 334-271-7500 Cheezie’s Pizza 8125K Decker Ln 334-244-9496 2762 Bell Rd Bldg B

Live Music

At the Marina Hours Tuesday 11am-8pm’ish Wednesday 11am-8pm’ish Thursday 11am-9pm’ish Friday 11am-9:30pm’ish Saturday 12pm-9:30pm’ish Sunday 12pm-8pm’ish

Hours subject to change based on crowd 617 Shady St. Montgomery, AL 36104 334-239-8958 www.CapitolOysterBar.Co

Lunch*Dinner*Catering

December Shows Thursday, December 4th at 6:00 PM Samantha Fish ($15 Cover) Sunday, December 7th at 5:00 PM Terry Hanck Band ($10 Cover)

SEE YOU THERE The Pride of Montgomery

Good Taste

Enjoy Steak ‘n Shake’s Holiday Joys Today!

Try our Happy Hour!

Breakfast at Steak ’n Shake! Close to I-65, Exit 179; Open at 7 am

Every Monday - Friday 2pm - 4pm 1/2-Price Drinks & Shakes!

LUNCH Served Anytime!

Minutes from MAXWELL AFB! 334-365-5423 1113H Perry Hill Rd 334-239-9263 CiCi’s Pizza 981 Ann St 334-386-3086 Corsino’s Italian 911 S Court St 334-263-9752 Hungry Howie’s Pizza & Subs 1712 Carter Hill Rd 334-262-8988 Marco’s Pizza 3171 Taylor Rd 334-356-6000

Ixtapa Bar & Grill 7157 EastChase Pkwy 334-277-7600

Sa Za’s Serious Italian 130 Commerce St 334-495-7292

Ixtapa Mexican Restaurant 6132 Atlanta Hwy 334-272-5232

Stevi B’s Pizza 5411 Atlanta Hwy 334-279-3112

Jalepenos Restaurant 8157 Vaughn Rd 334-277-2840

Tomatinos 1036 E Fairview Ave 334-264-4241 Mexican Cuco’s 11123 Chantilly Pkwy Suite A 334-271-3528

Midtown Pizza Kitchen 2940 Zelda Rd 334-399-0080

Cuco’s Express 31 S Court St 334-832-0081

Olive Garden 2700 Eastern Blvd 334-260-9220

El Rey Burrito Lounge 1031 E Fairview Ave 334-832-9688

The Pride of Montgomery

2313 Cobbs Ford Road Prattville 334-290-0036

Pizza Perfect 428 Coliseum Blvd 334-244-7721

Mellow Mushroom 7915 Vaughn Rd 334-213-6443

Kids Eat Free on Weekends

La Zona Rosa 2838 Zelda Rd 334-274-1153 Las Salsas Mexican 7921 Vaughn Rd 334-260-9096 Los Cabos Cantina 1801 Eastern Blvd 334-277-7571 Los Ranchos 127 Eastern Blvd 334-270-1509

with Adult Purchase of $8

Hours: Sun-Thurs: 7am-11pm Fri-Sat: 7am - midnight

Los Vaqueros 2195 Eastern Blvd 334-277-8339 Moe’s Southwest Grill 2900 Zelda Rd 334-273-9198 7028 EastChase Pkwy 334-356-3333

Tipico De Mexico 3441 Malcolm Dr 334-356-0459

Seafood Bonefish Grill 7020 EastChase Pkwy 334-396-1770

No Way Jose 5338 Atlanta Hwy 334-396-2222 Capitol Oyster Bar at The 8844 Minnie Brown Rd Marina 334-819-7363 617 Shady St 334-288-4217 Salsaritas 8015 Vaughn Rd Jubilee Seafood 334-356-5430 1057 Woodley Rd 334-262-6224 San Marcos Mexican 61 N Burbank Dr Red Lobster 334-279-6680 300 Eastdale Cir 334-277-0780 Santa Fe Express 15 Commerce St Ric & Mos 334-262-7676 3150 Watchman Dr 334-517-1140 Taqueria El Cantaro 1130 Ann St 334-356-7361

Filet & Vine

Wintzell’s Oyster House 105 Commerce St 334-262-4257

Eastbrook Café 520 Coliseum Blvd 334-272-2438

Young Barn Pub 5331 Young Barn Rd 334-819-7423

Farmers Market Café 315 N McDonough St 334-262-1970

Filet & Vine Market, Deli, and Farmhouse Kitchen

Odessa’s Blessings 726 Forest Ave 334-265-7726

Peyton’s Place 5344 Atlanta Hwy 334-396-3630 Bottleshoppe started in

Key Largo Bar & Grill 1343 Dalraida Rd 334-272-1402

1997

Rock Bottom American Pub 2430 Eastern Blvd with334-239-7625

partners Derk Lyerly and Jud Blount in Old Cloverdale, Montgomery, Southern 5251 Hampstead High St Piccadilly Cafeteria Wingers Sports Grill Style Alabama. After six months of renovations, the 334-284-8989 2610doors Easternwere Blvd opened to2773 Bell Rd the public in March of 1998.

A Social Event/Bandanas 301 Jefferson St When asked 334-265-911

Fried Tomato Buffet Atlanta Hwy behind the 6050 inspiration 334-244-6162

334-271-6189

334-277-3379

Steakhouse

Red’s Little opening FiletSchool andHouse Vine, Derk 20 Gardner Rd responds, “My passion and love for beef and 334-584-7955 steaks.” Derk Lylery grewCharles Anthony’s Restaurant Blue Moon up Café working with German chefs beef and went on to work inat the Pub Gail’s Down the St.preparing Café 10044 Chantilly Pkwy 7725 Averritt Dr Wagon Caféwas to open Zelda RdDixie for 20 years. the beef department2739 of Winn HisWheel vision 334-281-3911 334-356-0543 334-279-1009 1961 Maxwell Blvd a facility that not only provided the best cuts of beef available, but 334-265-9979 Longhorn Steakhouse Cornerstone also a deli featuring Golden gourmet Corralsandwiches, soup and salad bar, grocery Pub & 4095 Eastern Blvd 5336 Atlanta Hwy 1480catering Eastern Blvdfor all events. In addition, it contains a store, meals to go and 334-613-7555 Restaurant 334-386-0449 334-532-0020 Bottleshoppe that has central Alabama's largest selection of wine and Crackerbeer, Barrel with over 10,000 bottles of wine and 150 Baumhower’s Restaurant types of beers. If theyOutback Steakhouse Isaiah’s Restaurant 1040 Eastern Blvd 9191 Boyd Cooper Pkwy 2465 Eastern Blvd don't have it, they can it! 135order Mildred St 334-270-9495 334-244-1085

334-265-9000

334-271-1831

and wantedTexas Roadhouse Davis Café Longtime friend Jud Blount recognized Derk’s Irish Bredvision Pub & Restaurant Restaurant to partner with him Martin’s to turn the one-stop shop 518 N Decatur St 78 idea Dexter into Ave. a reality. Over7525 EastChase Pkwy 1796 Carter Hill Rd 334-396-7774 334-264-6015 334-834-7559 the years they have expanded 334-265-1767 twice, now occupying over 6500 square feet, and have seating for 140 people.

For special occasions, Filet& Vine offers gift baskets, gift boxes and gift cards.

The ThePride PrideofofMontgomery Montgomery 2931

Faith

What to do when you don’t know what to do? by Pastor Phil Bevilacqua I’m not sure about you but I find myself in this place often. I don’t know what to do when circumstances arise that are out of my control. Sometimes we just feel at a loss. I mean, sure some of us pray and have a list of things we do to contend for Gods hand to move on our behalf. We fast, confess, pray, give and of course go to church if we haven’t been in awhile. Really none of those things MAKE God do anything. God isn’t like that, He isn’t a mean taskmaster waiting for you to DO enough things to tip the scales on your side and THEN He moves. God doesn’t work on a check and balance system. God isn’t a slot machine that we put all our good deeds and spiritual aerobics stuff in and then poof… He is happy and says “yes!”. Sound silly? Well, the sad part is most people think this way about God, believers and unbelievers alike. The problem is this is an old covenant mindset or Old Testament mindset. Under the mosaic law there was a blessing and a cursing system set in place because the Israelites said they wanted a law to live by and show God they could do it and they would prove their love to Him by keeping the 10 commandments as well as all the others that came along. God tried to talk them out of it but the people didn’t want to hear it, so the good and bad system was established. Do good, get good, do bad, get bad! That was never the heart of our loving Daddy God. He has always wanted to just be a blessing to us, to take care of us, and be with us no matter what. You can see this in Genesis where God created us in His image and likeness and gave us dominion and power to reign on the Earth. When Adam sinned, God CAME looking for him to talk to him and keep the relationship flowing, NOT condemning and shunning. Grace (LOVE) chases us and has been since the foundation of the world, its been made available to every person on the planet, ALREADY 2014 years ago says Titus 2:11. God demonstrated His love for us when we didn’t care about Him at all. (Romans 5:8) So what are you saying Phil? Don’t do anything when life happens? No… but I do think in this new covenant of Grace we live in now that things should look different than the old way of doing things. Now since Jesus finished the work at the cross, we have an open heaven we stand in. We don’t need to do any dead work to get heaven open. Jesus got heaven open for us. We have full-unbroken fellowship with God. He lives in us, with us all the time, every minute. The bible says in John 6, "Our work is to believe on Jesus!! GLORY!!! What I have to DO is believe on Jesus and what He HAS accomplished for us at the cross!" WOW, so really what I’m saying here is when life throws you a lemon, believe that God loves you and Jesus was enough and His grace is sufficient and THAT will CAUSE that lemon to become lemonade supernaturally with out your effort because it's a grace. If it's not a grace then it’s a work and God is in debt to you. NOT!! Galatians 2:21 and Romans 11:6. Just simply believing in the goodness of God changes everything! That He loves you so very much and has great things in store for you. When we believe that the God of the universe loves us and has nothing but good intentions for us, it's easy to know He will work all things for our good. So again, when you don’t know what to do??? DO this….BELIEVE ON THE GOODNESS OF GOD=His LOVE=His Grace=JESUS!! So our prayers should be about thankfulness for what has already been done. So this Christmas season when your family and in-laws are around that are off the wall, messed up, high as a kite, the black sheep, the goody goody, annoying, or doesn’t get you the right gift, remember that God is good and He loves them just like He loves you and He will make it all work out. You can’t change them or your circumstances. Just believe God can take care of it and He is Good and watch your lemons turn to lemonade! Pastor Phil Bevilacqua attended Canaan Land. He and his wife, Johnna, then attended Rhema Bible Training Center, where they graduated in 2003. They returned to Alabama in 2003 and served at Canaan Land Ministries and Voice of Victory Church for 8 years. Now God has promoted Phil and Johnna to start Grace Life Church at the YMCA in Prattville, AL. GLC is a church full of the grace and love of God. They have a new location in Montgomery located at Rock-Bottom American Pub for bar church. Contact: churchgonewild.tv 32

The Pride of Montgomery

Education Station Public Schools Montgomery Public Schools 334-223-6700

Lighthouse Christian Academy 334-271-4200

Private Schools Alabama Christian Academy 334-277-1985

Macon-East Academy 334-277-6566

Calvary Christian 334-281-9633 Churchill Academy 334-270-4225 Eastwood Christian School 334-273-1164 Evangel Christian Academy 334-272-3882 Frazer Memorial 334-279-0271 Green Gate 334-281-3300

Holy Cross Episcopal School 334-395-8222

The Pride of Montgomery

Montessori Academy 334-262-8685 The Montgomery Academy 334-272-8210 Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School 334-272-7220 SafetyNet Academy 334-277-1334 Saint James School 334-277-8033 St. Bede 334-277-8551 St. Jude Educational Institute 334-264-5376

Seventh Day Adventist 334-272-6437

Faulkner University 334-272-5820

Success Unlimited Academy 334-819-8005

Fortis College 334-272-3857

Trinity Presbyterian School 334-213-2100

Huntingdon College 334-833-4497

Special Needs Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind 334-262-0824

Jones School of Law 334-386-7495

Sylvan Learning Center 334-262-0043 Universities Alabama State University 334-229-4100 Amridge University 334-387-3878 Auburn Montgomery 334-244-3000

Prince Institute of Professional Studies 334-271-1670 South University 334-395-8800 Trenholm State Technical College 334-420-4200 Troy University 334-241-953

Virginia College 334-277-3390

Saint Nicholas , Pere Noel, Santa Claus, Papai Noel, Father Christmas , Ded Moroz ,

Babbo Natale, Sinterklaas , K r is K r in g le ,

and simply " Santa "

by Yvonna Richardson Green Gate School Fifty-six years ago, I became really fascinated by this man with many names. When I was five years old, I sat in his lap, explaining how “good” I had been and how much I deserved the Chatty Cathy doll I wanted so badly. As the first talking doll, Chatty Cathy was at the top of every little girl’s list. My mother had told me that due to her popularity, Santa would need to make substitutions. I looked deep into Santa’s eyes and assured him that should he choose me, Chatty Cathy would be loved forever, and I didn’t want any other toys. As the elf finally had to gently remove me from Santa’s lap, he laughed his “Ho!Ho!Ho!” and reminded me to believe. So I believed with all my heart and Santa delivered. Our Christmas tree seemed to have a special glow on Christmas morning because Chatty Cathy was sitting there in her red velvet party dress waiting for me. I ran to her and immediately pulled her talking string. Her first words were “I love you.” I promised to believe in Santa forever. I never understood why every year during my childhood, there was always some “kook” that would ask my teachers, scout leaders, and other adults the same question, “Is Santa real?” The answer was always the same: “Yes, Santa is real.” I mean, come on already. Why keeping asking, “Is Santa real?” That’s like asking, “Is love real?” Just because you can’t see him doesn’t make him less real. Sure he is surrounded by stories and legends, but that doesn’t make him less real.

Remember, Santa chose Christmas Eve to deliver his love to the children of the world. Each time I asked my mother and daddy the question, their answer was always the same, “If you believe in love, then you believe in Santa.” Since that time, the question, “Is Santa Real?" has crossed my mind. Through the years I have kept my eyes open and I am happy to report: Yes, Santa is real!!! Proof ? I have it; my daughter Karoline’s face when she discovered the Molly doll she wanted so badly under our tree. She cried with joy. When Emily, my daughter, noticed Santa had freckles she suddenly loved her freckles and announced freckles must be magic. When I asked my new son-in-law where he stood on the Santa question Eddie told the story about how his mom had set a trap to catch Santa, only to find a piece of red velvet and a note to “Believe,” so he believes too. My husband’s voice changes when he describes the stockings stuffed with simple and exotic Christmas goodies he and his brother shared.

“Educating Bright Children With Unique Learning Differences”

Churchill Academy

Churchill Academy is a one-of-a-kind school for bright children with unique learning differences. Many are gifted in specific intellectual and academic areas, but their potential is overlooked by educators because they aren’t able to achieve in mainstream academic environments with traditional methods, materials and techniques. These children learn differently. Churchill Academy is a unique, supportive environment with individualized academic programming for grades K-12. Churchill’s low student-teacher ratio, tailored learning programs, remedial programming, and behavior management techniques teach to students’ strengths, and addresses their weaknesses. We provide detailed biannual progress reports, training seminars, and other activities which foster parent involvement.

395 Ray Thorington Road • Montgomery, AL 36117 • 334-270-4225

The Pride of Montgomery

Wednesday, December 31 Boards at 10:00 pm, Cruises from 10:30 pm to 12:30 am Adult $60 includes: Inside Reserved Seating, Live Entertainment, Party Favors, Champagne Toast with commemorative glass, Hors Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oeuvres, and Cash Bar.

Adult Patio $40 Includes: Patio Seating, Live Entertainment, Party Favors, Champagne Toast with commemorative glass, and Cash Bar.

Fireworks Display at Midnight!

The Pride of Montgomery

Must be 21 years or older to board 334-625-2100 Funinmontgomery.com

Christmas Flowers and Arrangements are Now Available!

Lee & Lan F l o r i s t

Voted Best in Montgomery • Traditional and modern floral designs. by Reader’s Choice Award! • Specialty food, fruit, snack, and gourmet baskets. • We wire flowers anywhere in the world and deliver to all of Montgomery, including Pike Road, Waugh, Cecil, and Hope Hull. • Choose a design from one of our websites or allow our team of talented designers to create a one-of-a-kind arrangement for you! • Discount For Active & Retired Military

Lee & Lan Florist www.leeandlanflorist.com

(334) 277-8040 (800) 239-1600

3365 Atlanta Highway Montgomery, AL 36109 Mon-Fri: 8am - 4:30pm Saturday: 8am - 12pm

The Pride of Montgomery

Pastor Phil and Johnna Bevilacqua with their beautiful children

One Church, 2 Locations

Montgomery

2430 Eastern Blvd. 36117 @ Rock Bottom American Pub

Prattville

972 Mcqueen Smith Rd. 36066 @ YMCA

or Call 334-365-8672 40

The Pride of Montgomery

Don’t Limit Me Book and Journal by Tasha Scott

Don’t Limit Me, is the first book by Tasha M. Scott, a local Entrepreneur, Author, Speaker, and Coach. She presents her tried and true methods to empower highachieving women to regain their passion, joy and freedom for life by focusing on personal development, so they can maximize their potential and positively impact their communities, and the world. Her powerful personal experiences, insight, faith, and practical application tools are used to help women gain clarity, confidence and purpose. Scott’s message declares, “The only thing that “limits” us in life is our own limited thinking.” “Tasha Scott has written a powerful and engaging book that will help you get out of your own way. Whether you are stuck in fear, shame, excuse making, self-pity, or just don’t have a clue who you are; Tasha gives you the biblical tools to break free and become the person God designed you to be.” -Leslie Vernick

@coachtashascott (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram) Book can be purchased here: http://www.tashamscott.com/tashas-products/ Price for Book/Journal Combo: $17.60

3066 Zelda Rd 7956 Vaughn Rd 9154 Eastchase Pkwy 42

The Pride of Montgomery

4319 Atlanta Hwy 2751 Legends Pkwy (in Prattville)

The Pride of Montgomery

Meow, Woof & Chirp

QUES T I ON S WORT H “ PAW I N G” OV E R by Dr. Philip V. Mitchell Winter can be full of challenges if you are a pet. This is why it is important for pet owners to be aware of the dangers so pets can stay safe. Here are a few answers to some pet care questions worth asking: DO PETS GET COLDS? Just like people, our pets’ immune systems are more vulnerable during the winter months, leaving them open to catching what we might consider a “cold”. Even though the infection might not be the same as our “common cold”, the symptoms are. Upper respiratory infections are common in dogs and cats with the infection causing: sneezing, coughing and runny nose. Check with your veterinarian when your pet presents the first signs of symptoms as the early stages are easily treated. However, left unchecked, respiratory infections can become serious. DOES COLD WEATHER AFFECT SKIN AND COAT HEALTH? Yes! Colder, dryer air can chap skin, even if it is covered with hair. To keep your pet’s skin and fur healthy, a good brushing is a great way to stimulate the production of oil in their fur, as well as speed up the growth of their undercoat. In addition, oatmeal baths are also soothing. Always consult your veterinarian before using store bought shampoos as some can cause more harm than good. IS WINTER WORSE FOR ARTHRITIS AND PAIN? Definitely! Cold winter air can exacerbate a pet’s arthritis or joint pain as theories cite the dryness of the air and drop in air pressure as the culprit. Whatever the cause, if your dog or cat suffers from arthritic pain be prepared for their problem to become more symptomatic in winter months. Many advancements like, laser therapy; have shown dramatic results for pets suffering from this condition so discuss new options that are available with your veterinarian. CAN MY PET GET FROSTBITE? Pets left in sub-freezing temperatures can fall victim to frostbite, affecting their ears, paws, and tail. Frostbite is a serious condition and can easily be avoided. When temperatures fall below freezing, bring your outside pets in or make sure they have shelter with dry bedding. WHAT ARE THE DANGERS ASSOCIATED WITH ANTIFREEZE? Antifreeze is another necessary evil of the winter season. One unfortunate fact about antifreeze is that it has a distinctly sweet taste that may pets are keen to sample. Unfortunately, it can take as little as two teaspoons to put your pet’s life in danger. Pets receiving treatment quickly have a high survival rate so knowing the signs of antifreeze poisoning is critical: Lethargy*** Disorientation*** Vomiting*** Loss of coordination If you have reason to suspect your cat or dog has ingested antifreeze take them in immediately. IS DEHYDRATION POSSIBLE? Dehydration during the winter occurs more frequently than most pet owners think. People associate dehydration with hot weather and over exertion. But the reality is that a cat or dog running around in the cold is just as likely to get dehydrated as one running around in the summer sun. This is why it is critical that pet owners insure fresh water is always available for their pet. If your pet is outside, make sure their water is not frozen. As the temperature outside begins to lower preparing your pets for the change is important. Whether your pet lives indoors or outdoors there are dangers in colder conditions and pet owners should be prepared. Make sure your pet’s environment is ready for Old Man Winter.

The Pride of Montgomery

Dr. Mitchell is a 1988 graduate of the Auburn University School of Veterinary Medicine. He is an active member of the American Animal Hospital Association, Alabama Veterinary Medical Association and American Veterinary Medical Association.

Insurance 101

Safer, Smarter Holiday Shopping by Henry Hernandez, State Farm™ Insurance Agent

In the Store

The busiest shopping weekend of the year has arrived. If you’ll be joining the crowd of more than 140 million Black Friday shoppers, take some extra precautions to protect yourself, your purchases and your personal information.

From fist fights to identity theft, Black Friday shopping brings a few safety risks. Consider these holiday shopping safety tips: •

Keep your purse close to your body or your wallet in an inside coat pocket or front pants pocket.

•

Don’t argue or fight over an item.

•

Don’t take your money out until asked to do so.

•

Use only one credit card. Remember the 2013 Target breach? Should something similar occur, you can reduce the risk of having multiple cards compromised.

•

Save your receipts and monitor your credit card activity.

•

Ask for help moving and loading large items if needed.

•

If shopping with children, select a central location to meet in case you are separated. Teach kids how to ask a security guard or employee for help if they’re lost.

In the Car With so many people out and about, you may encounter some aggressive drivers on the road. Don’t add to the problem: Remember to drive defensively and curb your road rage. Parking lots can be dangerous too, so be on guard: •

Be patient when looking for a parking space. Don’t speed up to catch that empty (or soon-to-be empty) spot, and be cautious of other drivers who do.

•

Park your vehicle in a well-lit area.

•

Look around and under your vehicle before approaching it.

•

Store shopping bags in your trunk and out of plain sight.

•

Look for other cars or people, and back out slowly.

On the Internet Opting to join Black Friday or Cyber Monday from your couch? You still need to be on the lookout. Stick to retailers you know, and never commit to a deal that seems too good to be true. Visit the State Farm® Learning Center for more online safety tips. Henry Hernandez State Farm Agency Find us on Facebook and let us know what other topics Henry can help you with! 46

The Pride of Montgomery

Worth A Look

It''s the Holidays!

by Rebekah Edwards LUSH Makeup Art

The decorations are set and the holiday gifts are here! One thing I love about the holidays is gift sets! You can get great deals on fabulous items! Smashbox cosmetics “On the Rocks” Holiday 2014 collection, these deluxe gift sets are perfect for anyone at any age!! Try the on the rocks “Be Legendary” lip gloss set. It usually comes with more than one color choice, and it's a great way to try other color options without paying full price for each lip gloss, only $28. We also have “Be Legendary” lipstick trio: get a party perfect lip with this trio of our best selling lipstick colors, only $19. Also, try the always sharp eyeliner set. Get precisely lined lines with our 5 ultra rich shades of our self sharpening liners ($39). Take advantage of our jewel tone eye shadow palette. These colors are perfect party shades ($36). Last but not least, set your holiday look with “On the Rocks” photo finish primer duo. ($36). See some shades in the deluxe kits that may not be for you? Break it up and give those products as mini gifts or stocking stuffers! These latest trends and styles can be located at Doug's 2 Salon-Spa.

LushMakeupArt.com

The Pride of Montgomery

Have you heard? Doug’s 2 Salon-Spa is expanding! Doug’s 2.5 will open this fall. Doug’s 2.5 will offer salon only services. Come and see us! We will be located 8121 Vaughn Road, a few doors up from Doug’s 2 in the Peppertree Shopping Center.

8131 Vaughn Road • 334-396-7120

furniture • home accents • art • purses • clothing • jewelry

Now is the time to treat that special person in your life!

Services • • • • • • • •

PURCHASE A $100

G I F T C E RT I F IC AT E

FOR ONLY

$75

FREE GIFT WRAP AVAILABLE Offer Expires 12-31-14

15 Mitylene Park Lane Quite the Pair Montgomery, Alabama 36117 Hours: 334-356-8745 phone Monday, Thursday & Friday 10 am - 6 pm 334-356-8746 fax Tuesday & Wednesday 10 am - 4 pm quitethepair@hotmail.com Saturday 10 am - 2 pm

Hours

Male Grooming Salon Scalp Treatment Spa Packages Manicure/pedicure Cigar Lounge Shoe Shine And other cosmetology services are available!

Mon-Fri 8:00am-6pm Sat 6:00am-4pm

Location

1801 W 3rd St, Montgomery, AL 36106

Call us today! (334) 262-7800

The Pride of Montgomery

Shopping Spree

Diamonds

By George Singleton

If you want the most unique diamonds in town, Cronier's Jewelry is where you want to be. They carry an array of stones including ideal cut stones, internally flawless stones, rounds, marquees, cushioned shapes, emerald cuts, princess cuts, and even passion cut diamonds which Cronier's is the sole provider of them in the Montgomery area. Jerry Cronier (the owner of Cronier's Jewelry) has been in the jewelry business for 45 years. He started his career with Ware Jewelers in Auburn, AL. While working there, he discovered his passion for the jewelry business. As his career progressed, he eventually joined Zales Jewelers, and he diligently moved up the ladder to become Vice President of the company. However, he was still ambitious; he didn't become complacent as Vice President, instead he broke the glass ceiling to go into business for himself. So that's when he opened Cronier's Jewelers here in the Montgomery River Region. It has been opened for 33 years; they are proud to be the oldest jewelry store in Montgomery.

Flawless

The Pride of Montgomery

Diamonds

2307 Eastern Blvd., Montgomery, Alabama 36117 • 334-272-4995 Open Tuesday- Saturday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm Find us on Facebook: Cronier’s Fine Jewelry • www.croniers.com

Cruising With Santa

December 5th, 12th, 13th, 19th, and 20th The Harriott II Welcomes

Santa on Board!

Includes Holiday Dinner, Live Entertainment and

Plan your Christmas party or make a reservation for your family to enjoy a great holiday dinner & special night with Santa!

SANTA!

Adult Cruise and Dinner $45.00 Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cruise and Dinner $25.00 Boarding Begins at 6:30 p.m. Cruise from 7 - 9 p.m.

Have Your Christmas Party on Your Own Private Deck! Private Deck Parties for 80-96 Guests Private Boat Rentals Available

The Pride of Montgomery

Harriott II Riverboat 200 Coosa Street 334-625-2100 Check Out our Events Calendar!

www.funinmontgomery.com

A Unique Shopping Experience Offering Gifts for Home, Holidays, Weddings or any Occasion

Find Us On Facebook Monday: 10am-5pm Tuesday-Friday: 10am-6pm Saturday: 10am-5pm

Peppertree Shopping Center 8127 Vaughn Road (334) 647-1745 The Pride of Montgomery 53

Fine Line Engravers & Gifts

Ho, ho, ho... Santa has come early! Selected items are on sale up to

55% OFF!!!!!

Shop early for a good selection of gifts!!!! 2972 Carter Hill Road, Westminster Shopping Center (down from Panera Bread) 334-281-7577 Visit our Facebook Tues - Fri: 10am - 5:30pm page for sneak peeks Saturday: 10am - 2pm of new inventory! 54

The Pride of Montgomery

Tis the Season Escape

Nurture

Heal

With a gift certificate to Phoenix Salon & Spa Special Holiday Packages Available from $49.00-270.00

Monday - Saturday 8:00am - 6:00pm (later by appointment)

6331 Atlanta Highway Montgomery, Alabama 36111 334.272.4247 www.phoenixsalonskinandspa.com

Phoenix Salon & Spa The Pride of Montgomery

Kid's Corner

You Supply The People, We Supply The Fun!

After School Program-Indoor Fun Center-Party Rooms-Open Play Contact Owners Allen and Dawneese Bowen for more information! 334-546-81161514 • West Street • Montgomery, Alabama 36106 email: thespacewalker@yahoo.com • www.thespacewalker.com 56

The Pride of Montgomery

The Shoppes of My Kids Attic

Open Mon - Sat 10 am - 6 pm Find us!

334-270-1456 401 Coliseum Blvd., Montgomery Eastbrook Shopping Center The Pride of Montgomery

Datebook Ladies of High Tea December 2nd, 2014; 6pm

Capital of Dreams Christmas Parade December 19th, 2014; 6:15pm

Lowder Library 2590 Bell Rd; (334) 244-5717 The Ladies of High Tea will be celebrating the holidays with their usual Christmas party. Everyone is invited to join and bring a covered dish, if desired! Come join us!

Downtown--State Capitol 334-625-2100 This event you do not want to miss! Come celebrate the holidays with your community! The fun and entertainment is waiting for you!

Homework Assistance December 3rd, Dec. 10th, and Dec. 17th

New Years Eve Cruise December 31, 2014

Lowder Library 2590 Bell Rd; (334) 244-5717 Come bring your kids to get assistance with homework. It will be a blast!

Samantha Fish--Live Performance December 4th, 2014; 6:00pm

617 Shady St, Montgomery (334) 239-8958 Come out and enjoy some great food and great entertainment! Only a $15 Cover.

Cruising with Santa Dec. 5th, Dec. 6th, Dec. 12th, Dec. 13th, Dec. 19th, and Dec. 20th

Riverfront-Harriott II 200 Coosa Street; 334-625-2100 Boarding starts at 6:30pm, and cruises from 7pm-9pm. There will be package deals available! There will also be entertainment, cash bar, and concessions!

Riverfront-Harriott II 200 Coosa Street; 334-625-2100 Cruise boards at 10pm, and it cruises from 10:30pm-12:30am. There will be Hors d'oeuvres, a Champagne toast, live music, and fireworks!

Live Music Capitol Oyster Bar

Terry Hanck Band December 7th, 2014; 5:00pm

617 Shady St, Montgomery (334) 239-8958 Come out and enjoy some great food and great entertainment! Only a $10 Cover.

Capitol Heights by Candlelight Tour of Homes December 13th, 2014; 4pm-7pm

Madison Avenue Gwen Moore: glmluvsls@yahoo.com Come out to our holiday historic home tour. You're going to love the history and the detail of the Capitol Heights homes.

Pajama Story Time--On Mondays Except December 15th, 2014

Lowder Library 2590 Bell Rd; (334) 244-5717 Come out and bring your kids to Pajama Story Time. You will have so much fun! However, the last Story Time will be December 19th, 2014.

Stitch and Share December 18th; 3:30pm-5:30pm

Lowder Library 2590 Bell Rd; (334) 244-5717 Mark your calendars! Please bring your unfinished objects that you would like to finish, or come and start something new! 60

The Pride of Montgomery

December Shows Thursday, December 4th at 6:00 PM Samantha Fish ($15 Cover) Sunday, December 7th at 5:00 PM Terry Hanck Band ($10 Cover)

SEE YOU THERE 617 Shady St. Montgomery, AL 36104

The Pride of Montgomery

Map It Out

36 19 16

24 30

39 4 33 22

37 8

14 11 17

13 7

15 19

Alabama Shakespeare Festival 1 American Forest Management 2 Capital Oyster Bar 3 Chris' Hot Dogs 4 Christ the Redeemer 5 Churchill Academy 6 Cronier’s Fine Jewelry 7 Deramus Hearing 8 Doug's 2 Salon 9 Eastside Grille 10 Filet & Vine 11 Fine Line Engravers & Gifts 12 Fitzgerald Museum 13 Golden Shears 14 Green Gate School 15 Harriott II 16 Hue Studio 17 Jackson Hospital 18 27

Lee & Lan Florist 19

10 29

Looney’s SuperSkate 20

Lush Makeup Art 21 26

McPhillips Shinbaum, LLP 22 Montgomery Humane Society 23 Old Alabama Town 24 Oak Grove Inn 25 Pediatrics at Twilight 26

Phoenix Salon & Spa 27 Primary EyeCare 28

9 40

Quite the Pair 29

Rez Fit 30 State Farm - Henry Hernandez 31

Steak ’n Shake 32

PRIDE

The

of Montgomery

Tasha Scott, Life Coach 33 Taylor Crossing Animal Hospital 34 Office of Dr. Rachelle Janush, D.O. 35 The Shoppes of My Kids Attic 36 The Space Walker 37 Tonya Speed Dance Studio 38 Troy University Montgomery 39 Two Blessings Gift Boutique 40 Wilson Shaw IT 41