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contents fall 2011 EDITORIAL Michele Gerlach Editor Stephanie Nelson Bob Brooks Tom Gerlach
ADVERTISING Ruck Ashworth Marketing director Jill Prevett Marketing consultant Jason Killingsworth Marketing consultant PRODUCTION Erin Johnson Graphic Designer
South Alabama Living is published four times per year by Andalusia Newspapers, Inc. PO Box 430 Andalusia, AL 36420 www.andalusiastarnews.com (334) 222-2402
Welcome "You know what? I can feel the happiness in my heart at Christmas! Everything feels perfect!" So said young Christopher on a recent cold, wintry night. From the vantage-point of adulthood, we know that perfection escapes us even during the holidays, but we seem to work harder for it this time of the year. But from the majestic autumn days, like those when Dan Marler knows it’s time to make syrup, to the myriad of gatherings that call for wellthought-out meals, like the recipes in the his edition, it is a magical time of the year. Countless hours of work go into dressing up city sidewalks, planning events like caroling, tree lighting, concerts, and the hanging of the greens. It was practically still summer when the Andalusia Ballet began casting Messiah. Whichever of these events calls to you and completes your season, here’s wishing you “happiness in your heart” during the Christmas season and throughout the new year.
just folk, Page 25 hughes mansnion, Page 21
traditional vows Page 17
Advertising rates and information available upon request. Subscriptions are $16 annually. Please make checks payable to Andalusia Newspapers, Inc., PO Box 430, Andalusia, AL 36420
make-ahead menu Page 31
old-fashioned syrup making Page 29
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Opp Veterinary Hospital Faith B. Drumheller, D.V.M & Wesley Pattison, D.V.M. • Small Animal, Birds, & Exotic • Medicine & Surgery • We provide state of the art Ultrasound, Laser Pain Management, Radiography, Bloodwork • Boarding & Grooming www.oppvet.com 207 Highway 52 East• Opp (334) 493-6687 Home of Opp Paws & Claws, Inc. A non-profit 501(c)(3) no kill opppawsandclaws@gmail.com •
CLOTHING • JEWELRY •www.petfinder.com/shelters/al276.html GIFTS • Donations are great appreciated & 222.2820 • oasisandalusia.com desperately needed. All donations are 100% tax deductible. Call 334-341-4577 for Adoptions.
Christopher’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry, Inc. 156 Covington Mall Andalusia, AL (334) 222-4925
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what to do
12/01 - Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Andalusia Tourism and Relocation Committee will host the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Thurs., Dec. 1, on the square. Caroling begins at 6 p.m.; lighting ceremony at 7 p.m. 12/01 - Wild Game Cook-off This fundraiser for the Alabama Wildlife Federation is set for 5:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. at the Covington Center Arena. Admission is $40 per couple. Info: 334.222.3123. 12/02 - Opp Christmas Parade The Opp Area Chamber of Commerce presents its annual Christmas parade, at 7 p.m. 12/02 - Andalusia Christmas Parade The Andalusia Area Chamber of Commerce presents “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” its annual Christmas parade, at 7 p.m.
12/03 - 12/04 Springdale Open House The City of Andalusia will host Open House at Springdale from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. 12/05 - Photos with Santa at Springdale The City of Andalusia will host Open House and Photos with Santa at Springdale from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. 12/09 -- 12/11 - Messiah Andalusia Ballet is proud to present Messiah for this year's holiday performance. Fri., Dec. 9, 7:30 p.m. - premier performance; Sat., Dec. 10, 7:30 p.m., and Sun., Dec. 11, 2:30 p.m. Through Dec. 31 – Larry Jordan Photography The LAAC presents the fine art photography of Larry Jordan. Show and sale runs through Dec. 31 at LAAC, 116 E. Three Notch St.
01/12 - Coffee County Arts Alliance presents The Association in Concert The CCAA presents one of the 1960s’ most successful bands with hits like “Never My Love, “Cherish,” and “Along Comes Mary.” Elba High School. www.CoffeeCountyArtsAlliance.com 01/29 - CAC presents “The Queens of Bingo” The Covington Arts Council continues its 2011-12 season with the comedy “The Queens of Bingo” in the Dixon Center at LWBCC, Andalusia. Tickets are $15 in advance; $18 at the door. 03/24 - CAC presents Legends of Motown The Covington Arts Council continues its 2011-12 season with a musical performance by the Legends of Motown, Dixon Center, LBWCC. Tickets are $15 in advance; $18 at the door.
regional events Through 12/24 –A Christmas Memory TThe Alabama Shakespeare Theatre presents this new musical adaptation of Truman Capote’s short story. Ticket information, www.asf.net.
The Mobile Exploreum is hosting a “hopping” exhibit about life down under. This journey includes live kangaroos, wallaroos, wallabies, baby joes and more. www.exploreum.com
Dec. 5, 12, & 19 - Governor’s Mansion Candlelight Open House Gov. and Mrs. Robert Bentley will open the Governor’s Mansion for candlelight tours from 5:30 7:30 p.m. The 1907 Colonial Revival mansion located at 1142 South Perry S.t in Montgomery will be aglow with lights and filled with the spirit of the season.
01/01 – Hank Williams 59th Memorial Celebration Commemoration of the 59th anniversary of Hank Williams’ death with a wreath-laying ceremony followed by live music. 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., Montgomery’s Oakwood Cemetery Annex. Admission charged. www.thehankwilliamsmuseum.co m.
Through Jan 2 -- Kangaroo Kraze
01.21 - 02/21 --Mardi Gras in Mobile
Mobile is recognized as celebrating the first-known American Mardi Gras celebration in 1703. The celebration lasts for more than two and a half weeks and culinates on Fat Tuesday, the day before Lent. www.mobilebay.org. 01/26 - 01/29 Florida Chautauqua Assembly 2012 The theme for this year’s DeFuniak Springs event is “A Journey into the American Presidency” with Presdient Thomas Jefferson, portrayed by Bill Barker of Colonial Williamsburg, as keynote speaker. www.florida-chautauqua-center.org 01/27 - 01/28 Pike Piddlers
Storytelling Festival The Brundidge Historical Society brings four of the top master storytellers in the country to Pike County. This year's tellers are Donald Davis, Bil Lepp, Susie Whaples, and more. The festival begins on Friday night with supper and stories at the We Piddle Around Theater and continues with three concerts at the Trojan Center Theater at Troy University on Saturday. Jan. 27, 6:30 & Jan. 28, 10 a.m., 2 & 6:30 p.m. www.piddle.org 02/12 – B.B. King Legendary blues musician B.B. King will perform at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre.
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news + notes
Andalusia Ballet to stage ‘Messiah’ in December The Andalusia Ballet will present Handel’s “Messiah” for this year’s December performance. The production is a tremendous undertaking, bringing together an orchestra, a community chorus and dancers from the ballet performing selections from “Messiah.” Murphy said she has wanted to do this ballet again for several years. “I am thrilled and excited that we are going to be able to present this magnificent production for this special season,” she said. Former Andalusian Becky Taylor, director of the Montgomery Chorale, is coordinating the community chorus and orchestra. Taylor also is the director of music ministries, organist and choirmaster at Montgomery’s Church of the Ascension. Amelie Hunter, who choreographed the ballet several years ago, spent a recent weekend in Andalusia working with dancers. Hunter is a Louisiana native who began her dance training with the Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre. Her interest in world dance led to her performing with La Meri’s Ethnic Dance Arts Co. and in concerts in England, Indonesia and the United States, and to her dance studies in Java and Bali. She is a free-lance choreographer who has set ballets on companies across the country, with six of
Andalusia Ballet’s seniors, Cameron Morgan, Mary Ashton McMillan and Ander Helms, have leading roles in Messiah. Photo courtesy of the Andalusia Ballet
her works placed on the National Choreography Plan for Regional Dance America. The performance also features guest dancers Jared Jacoby and Patrick Willison.
The Andalusia Ballet last presented “Messiah” in December of 2006. This year’s performances are set for 7:30 p.m. on Fri., Dec. 9, and Sat., Dec. 10, and at 2:30 p.m. on Sun., Dec. 11.
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LBWCC FOUNDATION DINNER The LBWCC Foundation hosted an appreciation dinner at Springdale in the early fall. 1) Guests enoyed drinks and hors d'oeuvres in the courtyard. 2) Wynne and Shannon Glenn. Wachovia Bank sponsored the dinner. 3) Sal.Lee Sasser-Williams and Dr. Jim Krudop. 4) Louisa and Cary Baker. 5) Mark Murphy, Stallion Sasser, Sal.Lee Sasser-Williams, Meryane Murphy and Renee LeMaire. The meal was catered by Destin’s Cuvee Bisto and Great Events Center.
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south alabama scene WELCOME TO CABERET The Andalusia Ballet’s annual opening night auction featured a Caberet theme this year. Clockwise from far left: 1) Sydney Brunson and Fran Davidson. 2) Shanda Beste, Katie O’Neal and Christy Hutcheson. 3) Kassidy Mears, Sydney Ward, Lindsey Stephens, Catherine Weed, Olivia Amerson, Audrey Danford. 4) Zebbie and Richard Nix present Andalusia Ballet Board president Kathy McMillan with a check. It was, afterall, a fundraiser. 5) Mezzo soprano Lyndsey Johnson Hand performed selections from the Broadway musical ‘Caberet.’ 6) Danna Smith, Mike and Kathy Jones, Sylvia Johnson and Jim Smith.
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Welcomes Kevin Diel, MD and Brenda Smith, CRNP To the Practice of General Medicine Dr. Diel obtained his MD at the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois. He completed his internship at Memorial Hospital of Carbondale, Illinois. He served in the United States Army and is a veteran of the Gulf War. Brenda obtained her BSN, MSN and CRNP from the University of South Alabama in Mobile, Alabama. Brenda has 20 years of hospital experience and has worked as a CRNP in Family Practice for 7 years. Diel and Smith are currently on staff at the Andalusia Regional Hospital.
Andalusia Medical Center Kevin R. Diel, MD Brenda F. Smith, CRNP 301 Medical Avenue, Suite A (334) 427-2621 Hours Monday – Thursday • 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Medicare, Medicaid or Private/Self Pay. Walk-ins Welcome.
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south alabama scene ART OFF THE WALL Art Off the Wall is the annual fundraiser for the Lower Alabam Arts Center (LAAC) and the Covington Arts Council. (1) Amy Dugger, Bob Carter, John Dugger. (2) Hannah and Walt Merrell (3) Angie Miller and Tara Dalton. (4) Shanda Beste and Andy Uhquhart.; (5)Starr and Ken Odom. 1
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OCAC RECEPTION 2
The Opp Cultural Arts Center held a reception unveiling its juried arts show held inconjunctionwith OppFest in October. (1) Toby Hollinghead visits
with Wesley Laird; (2) Virginia Dowling points out the intricacies of a painting; (3) Gourd artist Terri Camp. photos by kendra bolling
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The wedding party included Rachael Taylor, Boris her guide dog, Linda Rawls, David Robertson, Rabbi Robert Couch, Aurelia Scherf Robertson, Authur Foley III, Lisa Law.
new standards for
a traditional wedding story and photos by michele gerlach
I
f weddings are about traditions, Aurelia Sherf Robertson and David Robertson might have set a new gold standard with their afternoon wedding on Oct. 31, 2011, on the grounds of Springdale. Mrs. Robertson is the granddaughter of the John G. and Ruth Scherf, who built the historic home in the 1930s. She and her husband chose to weave their shared Scottish and Irish histories into their marriage ceremony. “David and I both have Scottish and Irish Heritage,” Mrs. Robertson said. “My grandmother Ruth Scherf's maiden name was Gibson. “David's heritage was from the Donnachaidh Clan, Struan Scotland,” she said. “David came up with the idea to have some traditional Celtic elements to our ceremony, such as costumes, hand fastening and stepping over the broom. “I researched the ceremonies and made our clothes for the wedSee WEDDING page 17
18 south alabama living WEDDING from page 17
ding,” she said. “I had a lot of traditional experience from participating and selling pottery for many years at Renaissance fairs in northern and southern California.” A close personal friend of the groom’s, Messianic (Christian) Rabbi Robert Couch performed the ceremony. “We planned our ceremony around the 31st of October because it is an ancient Celtic, Druid and Christian holiday,” Mrs. Robertson said. “We included some of each of these elements in our ceremony.” As part of the ceremony, the rabbi talked about second marriages, and counseled both the bride and groom to respect each other’s past. The past made each the person he and she is now, he said. “Love is a gift; a joyful consequence of nothing you can control,” the rabbi said. Mrs. Robertson, who was joined at her wedding by three of her sisters, said she and her siblings were very close to their grandmother. She has fond memories of having lunch with her grandmother at Springdale as an elementary school student; of Easter egg hunts and Christmases that were very special times. “Springdale was a second home to me,” she aid. That made having her wedding at Springdale more special. “I have many fond memories of not only the beautiful mansion but also playing on the grounds as a child,” she said. “My grandmother was very special not only to me but my sisters as well.” ■
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Gigi’s Tutu offers specialty coffees, snacks, dance supplies and boutique gifts. It is located in the new Church Street Cultural Arts Centre. Below, the “tutu” marking the entrance to Gigi’s changes with the seasons.
gigi’s tutu is part of
a dream come true story and photos by michele gerlach
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hen the Andalusia Ballet moved to the Church Street Cultural Arts Center this year, it expanded its offerings, hoping to have something for everyone. In addition to classical ballet and modern dance, there are tap classes, yoga classes, pilates, zumba and voice lessons. And there is coffee, mac and cheese and fresh fruit, among other things, in Gigi’s Boutique. For almost a decade, Ellen Foreman and Meryane Martin Murphy talked about how wonderful it would be to have a place in the ballet’s home where parents could relax and have coffee while waiting for their children, and where stu-
dents could take a break between classes. When architects created the new cultural arts design for the former elementary school, they set aside an appropriate space and Gigi’s was born. Working near the ballet isn’t new to Foreman, whose Design Studio Boutique was located on Historic Central when the ballet was. Foreman started her wholesale design business, Simply Silk, in her basement and grew it to 23 employees, eventually opening retail stores in Andalusia, Brewton and Tuscaloosa. When breast cancer slowed her down at age 42, she took the business in a different direction, eventually sold it, and moved to Birmingham where she opted for a slower pace. Later, she became a See GIGI’s page20
20 south alabama living GIGI’s from page19
real estate project manager designing interiors and renovating apartments all over the Gulf Coast. When real estate markets changed, she found herself back in Andalusia, and the timing was perfect. “This is the perfect thing for me now,” she said. Gigi’s offers custom coffees by the pound, and in single-serve, healthy snacks for dancers, emergency dance items like tights and leotards, and gift items galore. The boutique is ready for Christmas with lots of ballet-themed gift items. “This place helps build a good attitude about being here,” Foreman said. “The students are working hard. It’s nice that they can take a break, watch TV, do homework, and enjoy camaraderie with their peers. It’s also a great spot for parents, she said. “We have several moms who are teachers who sit here grading papers ,” she said. “It’s just the way we dreamed it to be.” There are limited kitchen facilities, so
everything sold is prepackaged. Among the most popular items is single-serve macaroni and cheese which can be heated in the boutique’s microwave. But true to her nature, Foreman is working to keep Gigi’s fresh. “We keep a selection of fruit, yogurts and water,” she said. “I did baked apples in November and we’ll do frozen hot chocolate in January.” To make access easier, parents may prepay accounts, and students are issued luggage tag identification cards so there’s no need to carry cash. “The dancers might forget their shoes, but they don’t forget their Gigi’s cards,” Murphy said. “Everybody has one.” The boutique is open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 1:30 until 6:30, and on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30 until 6:30. On Saturdays through the performance of Messiah, Gigi’s is open from 8:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. “We welcome visitors,” Formean said. “The facility is designed so that you can walk through and view classes.” ■
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Andalusia Ballet student Hannah Sellers chooses her favorite snack at Gigi’s.
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Perfect Victorian After 3 generations, The Hughes Mansion will leave family
story by michele gerlach; photos courtesy of gary jones, precision image photography
he stately Victorian Florala home known as the Hughes Mansion will soon be home to a father and daughters again – just as it was when built in the early 1900s. But not before the public gets a sneak peek. James Thomas Hughes was a son of James Edwin Hughes, one of the first settlers to make his home in what is now the corporate limits of Florala. Tom Hughes was the principal stockholder in the Florala Saw Mill Co., which was established in 1903. He also was president of Florala’s First National Bank. The house was designed and built for him, his wife and five daughters.
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From his sawmill, Mr. Hughes provided burl pine, which is found in the parlors, dining room and hall on the first floor. Other features of the house include tall ceilings, pine floors, stained, beveled and leaded glass and marblefaced mantels. Massachusetts architect Chris DiMattei said the home is a spot-on match for a design of George F. Barber’s in his “Modern Dwellings, A book of Practical Designs and Plans For Those Who Wish to Build or Beautify Their Homes,” published in 1905. Described in the book as a “modest Southern home” that would cost less than $10,000 to build, the home feaSee MANSION, page 22
About the Hughes Mansion • Built in 1910 by J.T. Hughes, located on Fifth Street in Florala. Hughes was the father of five daughters, Birdie, Ruth, Marie, Juliette and Inez, who grew up in the house, and often rollerskated on its porches. Hughes’ father, J.E. Hughes, was known as the “father of Florala.” He settled there in 1865, after hauling all of his possessions in by oxcart. • Downstairs includes a vestibule, two parlors, dining room, b utler’s room, kitchen, bath, enclosed porch and a library. The second floor includes two stairwells, five bedrooms, two baths and a balcony in the large hall. The third level is a completely ceiled attic with stairs from the second floor. Other trivia: • First floor ceiling heights - 11’8” • Second floor ceiling heights - 10’6” • Fireplaces - nine • Windows - 52 • Air/heat - three systems, 11 tons • Exterior paint requirements - 165 gallons MANSION, from page 21
tures two-and-a-half floors. The first floor – where the ceilings are 11 feet, 8 inches - has a vestibule, music room, two parlors, dining room, butler room, kitchen, bath, enclosed porch, and a library. The second floor – which has 10.5-foot ceilings – includes five bedrooms and two bathrooms. Most recently occupied by Hughes’ grandson, James Thomas Harper, the home is being sold to a doctor who plans to live there with his two daughters. Closing was scheduled for Nov. 1, but was postponed until February so that the family could have an estate sale.
Glenn Powell of Alabama Land and Home, said the home sits on 10 lots. The listing price was $650,000, but the selling price has not been disclosed. “That they could find someone to do this kind of work in 1910, is unreal,” Powell said. The sale was delayed after several items of value were found in the attic, he said. The family has removed the items, and Allan Cotton will conduct the estate sale in late January or early February. He said the family has taken many of the furnishing from the home, but he expects to have china, glassware and some furnishings in the sale. ■
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Early Florala “One of the first settlers to make his home in what is now the corporate limits of Florala was James Edwin Hughes (father of J.T. Hughes and three other sons), who was born in Dale County, Ala. He arrived in Florala by ox cart in December of 1865, after the ending of the Civil War. Mr. Hughes, while serving in the Confederate Army, had traded for a 160-acre tract of land from a soldier in his company, who was from Covington County. This man had bargained for the 160 acres from the government for $15. …This tract is now the central part of the City of Florala. “Upon his arrival here with his widowed mother, Mr. Hughes found a small log building, just north of the present location of the Florala Hardware Co. ... “Later, his store increased to large proportions, and he made trips to market in Troy, Ala., and Milton, Fla. ... “On Jan. 11, 1875, a post office was established in the home of Mr. Hughes, who had been named postmaster, and was named Lake City, Ala. The name of the community was changed to Lakeview, Ala., on May 18, 1877, and finally to Florala, on June 22, 1891, this name being derived by using the first four letters of Florida and the first three letters of Alabama.” Mr. Hughes died in 1936 at the age of 97. From A Short History of Florala, 1970 Masonic Centennial Celebration program.
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Just Folk Coffee House is filled once each week by a group of women who enjoy bridge.
more than just
coffee served at Just Folk Once the Claire Theater, this place brings entertainment to Elba’s court square again.
by michele gerlach
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hen Elba’s Covenant Community Church was given the old Claire Theater, located on the downtown square, as a gift, church members weren’t quite sure what to do with it. Mart Gray, the church’s pastor, had an idea of making it a place for entertainment and some evening events. So they decided to call it a coffee house and have some cultural events there. “Just Folk Coffeehouse” was born. The first concert season was in 2008-’09. Then, when the nearby deli closed, there was a need for
more than coffee, and Just Folk became a lunch place, too. A full kitchen was added and church member Pattie Taylor Johnson became the volunteer manager. She is assisted by other volunteers. “We have a good group of regulars,” Gray said. “Even people who live in town are still discovering we’re here.” A selection of sandwiches is available, along with a daily lunch special, typically a soup or sandwich and a dessert. The coffeehouse also is often See COFFEE page 26
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ABOUT THE BUILDING When the Claire Theater originally opened, it was owned by an Ozark resident, Mr. Brackin, who owned the main theater on the west side of the square. Brackin had gotten word that someone was planning to open a drive in theater in Elba, and he wanted to give the appearance of competition. Collis Parrish worked in the projection booth. He and others of his generation have shared stories about the Claire, which operated roughly from 1947 – 1953. Later, Parrish operated a radio and television repair service in the building for about 30 years. Mike Jared, Kenneth Calhoun, Mart Gray, and Debbie Jared enjoy lunch and conversation at Just Folk. COFFEE, Continued from Page 25
rented for special occasions, like birthday parties or reunions, and there’s a group that plays bridge there every Wednesday. What it has become, Gray said, is an outreach for the church, although a subtle one. “I see people come in and start to talk to other people,” he said. “Sometimes, they are just lonely. If we can provide a place where people come together, that’s good.” At the same time, he hasn’t lost the focus on the original mission of promoting the arts. “We could never afford the biggest names,” he said. “But there are lot of pretty good artists out there who just haven’t made the big time yet.” The fall season included Leon Redbone and Harpeth Rising, as well as an evening with Alabama historian Wayne Flyntt. ■
2011-2012 Entertainment at Just Folk Sat., Dec. 3........................................................................Grace Pettis Fri., Jan. 6 ...............................................................Bill and Kate Isles Fri., Feb. 3 ...................................................................Craig Carothers Fri., March 2 ........................................................................Ronny Cox Fri., April 6 ....................................................................Kate Campbell Fri., May 4 .........................................Eric Brace and Peter Cooper Season tickets are $125. All other tickets are $20 per concert per person in advance or at the door
south alabama living
About Emily Dr. Jack Hawkins, Chancellor of Troy University; Elizabeth Dowe, 2010 Homecoming Queen crowing Emily Evans; Joey Evans, Emily's father and escort; Darreyel Laster, SGA president.
florala valedictorian is troy’s
homecoming queen
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n Nov. 12, Florala’s Emily Evans was crowned Troy University's Homecoming Queen. Emily is a senior biomedical science major who plans to become a pharmacist. She is the daughter of Joey and Suane Evans of Florala. A large crowd from Florala was in attendance for the long day of activities. Joey
Evans', Emily's Father said, "This is an honor for Emily and her family, however it is also a great recognition for the city of Florala and for Covington County. We are extremely proud of this recognition for all of our community." ■ photos courtesy of gary jones, precision image photography
At Troy University • Junior, studying biomedical science, planning to become a pharmacist • Homecoming queen • Former TU cheerleader • Alpha Gamma Delta, vice president of scholarship • Alpha Epsilon Delta • Omicron Delta Kappa • Beta, Beta Beta At Florala High School • Valedictorian, Class of 2008 • Varsity cheerleader • Homecoming queen • State champion in Track • Miss Florala 2006 • Beta Club president Hobbies • Scrapbooking • Runing • Reading • Wakeboarding Loves • The color pink • Coffee • Chinese food • Sushi
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Red Tails, starring Cuba Gooding, Jr., opens Jan. 20.
new george lucas film puts focus on
famed tuskeegee airmen he George Lucas film, Red Tails, about Alabama’s Tuskegee Airmen premieres in theaters across the U.S. Jan. 20, 2012. The movie is the brain child of Lucas who has been developing the story for nearly 25 years. Red Tails is a highflying action epic about the first African American combat pilots in the Tuskegee training program whose abilities were called into question as a result of segregation. The airmen were mostly untested, but proved themselves during WWII combat missions in Sicily and Italy. They also escorted bombers across Europe. Their nickname “red tails” stems from the paint that they applied to the tails of their planes. The storyline follows the lives of the 332nd Fighter Group who are called into duty under the guidance of Col. A.J.
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Bullard played by Oscar nominee Terrence Howard. Howard’s character is loosely based on Tuskegee Airmen commander Benjamin Oliver Davis Jr. Davis became the first African American general in the U.S. Air Force. The movie also stars Oscar winner Cuba Gooding Jr. as Major Emanuelle Stance and Theo James plays an intelligence officer. Lucas is the executive producer and Anthony Hemingway directed the action drama. The co-executive producer Charles Floyd Johnson is a native of Camden, Ala. “They were only in their early 20s when they performed these amazing feats,” Lucas said. “They became the best of the best—the top guns. It is an honor to bring to the screen a story inspired by their heroics.” When asked about the movie Gooding told an Inquirer reporter, “This is the black answer to Avatar,” he says, promising the film is chock-full of the most sophisticated and breathtaking effects this side of James Cameron’s box-office hit.
Although none of the scenes were filmed in Alabama, the shoot took place in Prague over 13 weeks. The story follows lives of the 332d Fighter Group, which saw action in Sicily and Italy and also escorted bombers across Europe. The group acquired the nickname “red tails” for the paint they applied to the tails of their planes. “Once moviegoers see the film, we are hoping they will come to Alabama to visit the actual site of the Tuskegee Airmen at Moton Field,” said tourism director Lee Sentell. “Visitors can see a real planes used by the airmen during WWII and they can experience the real history,” added Sentell. Moton Field opened in 1941 and was the training base for the Tuskegee Airmen. Today visitors can tour the Hangar One Museum at Moton Field for free. The hangar houses WWII-era training planes and interactive displays that tell the story of the airmen. For more information on the museum and other Tuskegee attractions visit www.alabama.travel. ■
29 south alabama living
smokin-hot
southern syrup tradition This family’s syrup-making tradition has been passed down at least three generations
30 south alabama living
Marlers continue decades-old syrup-making tradition story and photos by kendra bolling
hen vivacious reds, oranges and yellows in the woods hint at the autumn season, syrup making season is in full swing in Fleeta. Following a family recipe and method, Dan Marler is carrying on his father-inlaw’s tradition of making cane syrup. And Marler and his family were responsible for the entire process from planting the cane, tending to it, harvesting, stripping the leaves, cutting the tops, cutting it down, putting it on trailer and bringing it to the grinder. “We grind it and put it in a barrel,” he said, stirring a batch of soon-to-be syrup. Then the juice runs to a kettle-like operation where it is cooked down into thick, sweet syrup.
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“We cook it and then draw it off in a barrel and bottle it up,” he said. “You have to cook all the water out of it. When the syrup is ready, it will just flake off.” During the cooking process, Marler constantly skims the impurities out of the syrup. “We dip them off and throw them away,” he said. In true Southern fashion, Marler is carrying on a time-honored tradition of cane grinding and syrup cooking. Marler said his father-in-law Riley Dubose, who died last year at 104, taught him everything he knows about making syrup. Dubose learned from his father. “I’ve been doing it for about 20 years,” he said. “I’ve been knowing about it for
40 to 50 years. I married Riley Dubose’s daughter and I helped him. Then he helped me learn how to do it.” Marler said his family used to make cane syrup frequently, but he had health issues with his joints that required surgery. “Now we’ve started back,” he said. “We’ve had all the equipment, so I thought it was a good time to get started again. I really want to carry on a little bit of tradition and I’m hoping someone will pick it up. We’ll keep it going.” Marler said there are many ways to enjoy cane syrup. His favorite is “with a butter biscuit.” ■
Marler said he likes to wait for a cool snap before making syrup, as it’s a hot job. The juice is cooked for hours before it is thickened and ready for bottling.
cook ahead for a
holiday crowd
32 south alabama living
Crab cakes, shown here topped with Hollandaise, can be prepared ahead of time and broiled or fried just before serving.
southern staples are popular anytime a crowd gathers by tom gerlach
hen you’re entertaining a crowd for the holidays, sometimes it helps to plan a meal that can be mostly made-ahead. In the South, there’s no better choice than gumbo. When made the old-fashioned way, it is a multi-layered process. Yes, it can be a lot of work but the steps give you wonderful flavors. You can dress it up with the sides featured here, or use the sides for appetizers at your holiday gatherings. You can’t go wrong with Gulf seafood. Bon appetit!
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Seafood Gumbo Made in the South Louisiana tradition 1 pound 35 count shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 pound lump crab meat 1 cup vegetable oil 1 ½ cup all purpose flour 2 cups chopped onions
1 cup chopped celery 1 cup chopped bell pepper ¼ cup diced garlic ½ pound sliced andouille sausage 1 pound claw crabmeat 3 quarts shellfish stock 2 cups sliced green onions ½ cup chopped parsley Salt and cayenne pepper to taste File powder First, you make a roux. In a black iron pot or skillet, heat see FOOD, Page 33
ANSLEY PLACE
1214 E. Three Notch St. • Andalusia, Alabama 334-222-0450
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FOOD from Page 32
three cups of oil over medium high heat to approximately 300 degrees. Using a wire whisk or a wooden spoon, slowly add the flour, stirring constantly until the roux is peanut butter in color, approximately 20 minutes. Lower the heat and add onions, celery bell pepper and garlic to roux. Turn the heat and keep stirring the vegetables in the roux. Slowly add the shellfish stock to the roux until you reach the desired consistency for your gumbo. Taste, add salt and cayenne pepper if needed. Bring to a simmer and sprinkle file powder over the top. Simmer for 45 minutes, then add seafood to avoid overcooking. Serve over rice with hot French bread. Shellfish stock: 1 pound crab shells 1 pound shrimp shells with heads 1 pound crawfish shells with heads 2 onions, diced 2 carrots, diced 2 celery stalks, diced 6 cloves garlic, diced 4 springs parsley 2 bay leaves 1 tsp. dried thyme 6 black peppercorns 1 sliced lemon 1 gallon cold water 2 cups dry white wine Do not rinse the shells prior to beginning the stock. Combine all the ingredients in a two quart stock pot. Bring to a rolling boil, reduce to a simmer and cook for one hour. During the cooking process, skim off all impurities that rise to the surface. Add water if necessary to retain appropriate volume. Strain stock through a fine strainer, return stock to boiler and reduce liquid to two quarts. Classic crab cakes Makes 4 servings. 2 slices white bread, crusts removed and crumbled 2 tablespoons mayonnaise 2 teaspoons Old Bay速 seasoning 2 teaspoons parsley flakes 1/2 teaspoon prepared yellow mustard 1 egg, beaten 1 pound lump crabmeat Mix bread, mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, parsley, mustard and egg in large bowl until well blended. Gently stir in crabmeat. Shape into four patties. Broil 10 minutes without turning or fry until golden brown on both sides. Serve with your favorite topping: Hollandaise sauce, Remoulade sauce or mango salsa.
Jambalaya 12 medium shrimp, peeled, deveined and chopped 4 ounces chicken, diced 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/4 cup chopped onion 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper 1/4 cup chopped celery 2 tablespoons chopped garlic 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes 3 bay leaves 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon hot sauce 3/4 cup rice 3 cups chicken stock Continued, Page 34
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Drago’s Seafood Restaurant in New Orleans pioneerd charbroiled oysters in response to a raw oyster scare. The scare is mostly gone, but this dish is still a favorite. FOOD, from Page 34
5 ounces Andouille sausage, sliced Salt and pepper Combine shrimp, chicken and Creole seasoning, and work in seasoning well. In a large saucepan heat oil over high heat with onion, pepper and celery, three minutes. Add garlic, tomatoes, bay leaves, Worcestershire and hot sauces. Stir in rice and slowly add broth. Reduce heat to medium and cook until rice absorbs liquid and becomes tender, stirring occasionally, about 15 minutes. When rice is just tender add shrimp and chicken mixture and sausage. Cook until meat is done, about 10 minutes more. Season to taste with salt, pepper and Creole seasoning.
This dish was developed at Drago’s Seafood Restaurant in New Orleans in response a raw oyster scare. I always stop by for at least a dozen.
Drago’s Charbroiled Oysters 8 ounces (2 sticks) softened butter 2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic 1 teaspoon black pepper Pinch dried oregano 1 1/2 dozen large, freshly shucked oysters on the half shell 1/4 cup grated Parmesan and Romano cheeses, mixed 2 teaspoons chopped flat-leaf parsley Heat a gas or charcoal grill. In a medium bowl, mix butter with garlic, pepper, and oregano. Place oysters on the half shell right over the hottest part. Spoon enough of the seasoned butter over the oysters so that some of it will overflow into the fire and flame up a bit. The oysters are ready when they puff up and get curly on the sides, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and Romano and the parsley on top. Serve on the shells immediately with hot French bread. ■
36 south alabama living
Presenting
Planning can lessen stress of holiday entertaining erhaps the most anticipated aspect of the holiday season is the lavish holiday meal. Many people look forward to the food just as much as they look forward to the festivities. Planning a holiday gathering and meal can be stressful for hosts or hostesses. However, establishing a wonderful and stress-free meal is possible with a few easy-to-follow tips. • Create a meal concept. Holiday meals can be traditional or avant garde. There are many options from which to choose, but one thing to keep in mind is to select foods that go together. Those new to holiday hosting may want to stick with items that are well known and expected, such as turkey and trimmings. Those who want to experiment may want to introduce one or two new dishes into the mix. Food choices should be about what your guests will want to eat and not about which items will ensure a spectacle. • Keep preparation time in mind. Another thing to consider when planning the meal is the amount of time you have for food preparation and cooking. The holidays are a busy
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time of the year, and work and social engagements may continue up until the eleventh hour. Choose foods that can be prepared in advance and heated on the holiday if you're time-pressed. • Compile a shopping list. Once foods are selected, review all recipes and make a list of the ingredients you will need. Make a list of things that can be bought in advance (paper products, coffee, linens, etc.) and other items that need to be checked off closer to the actual holiday. Cross off each item once it is purchased. • Create a timetable. Make a schedule or use a calendar to schedule when each component of the meal and other preparations will be made. • Ask for help. If you find that time will be short, delegate some jobs to others. For example, if a grandmother or aunt is known for her prized potatoes or pies, ask her to make that item. • Go easy on yourself. While not everything will work out exactly as you expected, chances are little glitches will not even be noticed by guests unless you point them out. ■
photography of larry jordan Lower Alabama Arts Center 116 East 3-Notch Street Andalusia, Alabama 334-222-3205
Show & Sale November 5 through December 31 ***** exhibits • classes • camps music • Art • Drama
loweralabama@centurytel.net
From our Opp Veterinary family of Hospital Faith B. Drumheller, dealers toD.V.M & your family, Wesley Pattison, D.V.M.
we wish • Small Animal, Birds,you & Exotic • Medicine & Surgery a glorious • We provide state of the art Ultrasound, Laser Pain Christmas Management, Radiography, Bloodwork and &aGrooming Happy • Boarding New Year. www.oppvet.com 207 Highway 52 East• Opp (334) 493-6687 Home of Opp Paws & Claws, Inc. A non-profit 501(c)(3) no kill opppawsandclaws@gmail.com • www.petfinder.com/shelters/al276.html Donations are great appreciated & desperately needed. All donations are 100% tax deductible. Call 334-341-4577 for Adoptions.
1206 River Falls St. • 334-488-5752
We now have gift certificates and layaway. Free gift wrap.
south alabama living
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index to advertisers Alain Deasy, M.D......................................................................39 Andalusia Ballet ...........................................................................9 Andy Cable .................................................................................24 Andalusia Ford...........................................................................12 Andalusia Manor .........................................................................4 Andalusia Regional Hospital ..................................................3 Andalusia Regional Hospital ...............................................34 Ansley Place...............................................................................32 Barrow’s Furniture....................................................................13 CCB Community Bank..............................................................6 Christopher’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry ............................7 City of Andalusia .........................................................................2 Covington Electric Cooperative..............................................8 Covington Metals .....................................................................40 Darby’s Village Pharmacy .................................................... 10 Harold’s........................................................................................20 LAAC .............................................................................................36 LBW...............................................................................................37 Massey Automotive ...................................................................7 Oasis Spa and Salon .................................................................7 Opp Veterinary Hospital ........................................................37
Picket Fence Antiques ............................................................34 Precision Image Photography..............................................16 Professional Hearing Aid Center ........................................24 Savannah Terrace........................................................................4 Steamboat ..................................................................................34 Vicki Popwell ..............................................................................18 Walker Electric ..........................................................................24
Opp Veterinary Hospital
Opp Veterinary Hospital
Faith B. Drumheller, D.V.M & Wesley Pattison, D.V.M.
Faith B. Drumheller, D.V.M & Wesley Pattison, D.V.M.
• Small Animal, Birds, & Exotic • Medicine & Surgery • We provide state of the art Ultrasound, Laser Pain Management, Radiography, Bloodwork • Boarding & Grooming
• Small Animal, Birds, & Exotic • Medicine & Surgery • We provide state of the art Ultrasound, Laser Pain Management, Radiography, Bloodwork • Boarding & Grooming
www.oppvet.com 207 Highway 52 East• Opp (334) 493-6687
www.oppvet.com 207 Highway 52 East• Opp (334) 493-6687
Home of Opp Paws & Claws, Inc. A non-profit 501(c)(3) no kill
• opppawsandclaws@gmail.com www.petfinder.com/shelters/al276.html ! Donations are great appreciated & needed. desperately All donations are 100% tax deductible. Call 334-341-4577 for Adoptions.
Send us your holiday party pictures and be featured in our Winter edition!
email: michele.gerlach@andalusiastarnews.com
Home of Opp Paws & Claws, Inc. A non-profit 501(c)(3) no kill opppawsandclaws@gmail.com • www.petfinder.com/shelters/al276.html Donations are great appreciated & desperately needed. All donations are 100% tax deductible. Call 334-341-4577 for Adoptions.
38 south alabama living
scrapbook
honoring
deacon johnson a force for good in the world story and photo by Bob Brooks
D
eacon Johnson, a deacon in the literal, biblical definition, is and has been friend and personal positive influence on four generations of my family. Deacon Johnson and Brooks Hardware are both approaching their 100th birthdays this year, and they have been converging stories to this exact time in their histories. Once upon a time when there were only dirt, sand and clay roads in Covington County and the City of Andalusia, young Willy Johnson woke long before daylight and drove his wagon to the back of Brooks Hardware. There, he waited for my grandfather, S.D. Brooks, to open and fill his order for a wagon-load of syrup cans. While he waited, he ate sweet potatoes he had cut into round, half-dollar
shaped snacks, fried on a wood-burning stove, and wrapped in paper. He carefully unwrapped and slowly ate his only meal for the day. I guess S.D. must have slept in until 6 a.m. that day. Some 20 years later, we had some family trouble, the serious kind, in Clanton, Ala. My grandfather was too upset to drive, so he borrowed Mr. Anthony’s car and Willy Johnson drove S.D. to Clanton. Deacon Johnson said my grandfather was on his knees praying all the way up there. He said they shared in open-eyed prayer. You had to keep your eyes on the road … you can’t expect God to do EVERYTHING for you. During my time of store ownership, Deacon Johnson would walk from King Street to the store and take time to visit and read The Star-News, tell Denise some old hardware stories,
then walk down to Jimmy Faulkner’s Dairy Quean and eat lunch almost every day. Did I mention he always wore a suit, even in 100-degree weather? If it rained, someone always gave him a ride home. He continued this daily routine until he was about 95. Now he lives with his daughter in Montgomery. Whenever I want something that’s not mine or think about getting my way through unfair gain, I think, “WWDJD?” What would Deacon Johnson do? Then I know he would walk humbly, act justly and love mercy. Now that’s what kinds strive for, but only a few humble servants ever obtain. Happy birthday, Deacon Johnson. You are a positive force in Andalusia and the world. ■
Dr. Desy obtained his medical degree from the Faculty of Medicine, University of Montpellier, France. He completed his residency in orthopedic surgery at the teaching hospitals of the University of Sherbrooke and the University of Montreal, Canada. Dr. Desy is certified by the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada as an Orthopedic surgeon and a fellow of the American College of Surgeons.
Alain Desy, M.D. Orthopedic Surgeon Andalusia Orthopedics 301 Medical Dr, Suite C Andalusia, AL
(334)222-4449
Dr. Desy will see both child and adult patients with orthopedic problems. He has a special interest in total joint reconstruction and trauma. Dr. Desy is a member of the Andalusia Regional Hospital Medical Staff.
The possibilities are endless.
“A Family Tradition Since 1925” Serving Andalusia, Covington County, and the Surrounding Area For 5 Generations
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COVINGTON METALS CO. Open Mon-Fri 8 a.m. -5 p.m.
318 Montgomery St. Andalusia AL